When you think about software outsourcing destinations, Bangladesh probably isn't the first name that comes to mind. But it should be.
Tucked between India, Myanmar and Bay of Bengal, this country of 170 million people has built a diverse software ecosystem with companies doing remarkable work—from government systems that serve millions to products used by British Council and ACCA for global examinations.
Let me walk you through the companies, what they actually do, and the business models that work.
The Industry at a Glance
Current State (2024-2025):
- $1.3 billion+ in annual ICT exports
- $840 million in official software export revenue (FY 2023-24)
- 4,500+ registered IT/software companies
- 400,000+ professionals employed
- Exports to 80+ countries worldwide
Growth:
- From $26 million in 2008 to over $1 billion today—a 40x increase in 16 years
Why Bangladesh's Software Industry Exists
Bangladesh has pulled off something remarkable over the past fifteen years. The government made a deliberate bet on IT services as an export industry, offering tax breaks, building infrastructure, and pushing digitization across public services. The result? An industry that went from essentially nothing to generating over a billion dollars annually.
Here's what makes the model work: Bangladesh offers highly skilled English-speaking developers at competitive rates that deliver exceptional value. A senior software engineer in Dhaka might earn 100,000+ taka monthly (roughly $900+)—professional compensation that enables access to world-class engineering talent at reasonable investment levels.
For American or European companies, the value proposition is compelling. You're not "saving money"—you're accessing talented engineers who bring strong technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and dedication to building quality products. The time zone works perfectly too—Bangladesh is well-positioned for both European and US clients, enabling real-time collaboration when needed.
This created multiple distinct types of software businesses beyond just traditional outsourcing. Let's break them down.
The Complete Business Model Breakdown
Looking across Bangladesh's software landscape, you can categorize companies into seven main business models—not just the two or three most people talk about:
| Business Model | % of Industry | Description | Top Companies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pure Outsourcing | 40% | Provide developers/teams to international clients on time-and-materials or fixed-price projects | Brain Station 23, BJIT, Cefalo, Enosis, Vivasoft |
| Government Contracts | 15% | Specialize in public sector projects, national infrastructure, digitization initiatives | Datasoft, Tiger IT, OrangeBD, Tappware, SoftBD |
| Product Companies | 12% | Build and sell own software (SaaS, licenses, marketplace products) | BDTask, Ollyo, REVE Systems, NerdDevs |
| Hybrid Models | 8% | Combine client work with own products for diversification | Brain Station 23, NerdDevs, Kaz Software |
| Tech Startups | 10% | VC-backed growth companies building consumer/enterprise platforms | bKash, Pathao, ShopUp, Chaldal, Shikho |
| Embedded Systems | 5% | Firmware, IoT, hardware-software integration for electronics/devices | Samsung R&D, BJIT Embedded, Teton Electronics |
| Freelance-to-Company | 6% | Companies that started as freelancers on Upwork/Fiverr and grew into agencies | Hundreds of small agencies across Dhaka/Chittagong |
| Digital Services | 4% | Software + SEO, content marketing, social media management | Bizcope, Red Sparrow Digital, HYPE DHAKA |
Let's dive into each category with the major players you need to know.
The Government Contract Giants
Datasoft Systems Bangladesh Limited
- Website: https://datasoftbd.com
- Founded: 1998
- Employees: 300+
- Certification: CMMI Level 5 (first in Bangladesh)
Datasoft was the first mover in Bangladesh's software industry, and they focused on something many others avoided—government contracts. That turned out to be prescient.
Walk into any government office in Bangladesh and there's a decent chance you'll encounter Datasoft's work. They built the national ID system, the e-passport system, biometric registration systems for multiple agencies, voter registration platforms, and border control infrastructure. These aren't small projects—they're nation-building scale, often worth tens or hundreds of millions of taka.
Their flagship commercial product, Microfin 360 (launched 2008), targets microfinance institutions and NGOs. Given Bangladesh's massive microfinance sector (pioneered by Grameen Bank), this was smart positioning. The product has since expanded across the region to Nepal, Bhutan, Canada, and India.
What Datasoft understood early was that government contracts, while bureaucratic and sometimes slow-paying, provide stable long-term revenue. Once you're embedded in a ministry's infrastructure, replacement becomes politically and technically difficult. That stickiness matters.
Salary Range: 30,000-180,000 taka/month+ for software engineers
Tiger IT Bangladesh Limited
- Website: https://www.tigerit.com
- Founded: 2006
- Employees: 100+
- Specialization: Biometric and identity management
If Datasoft is the generalist in government contracts, Tiger IT is the specialist. They focus almost exclusively on security, identity management, and biometric systems—the stuff that requires security clearances and deep technical expertise.
This is the company government agencies call when they need fingerprint identification systems, automated fingerprint identification systems (AFIS), facial recognition, or secure document management. Their client list includes defense and security agencies, which means many of their projects aren't publicly discussed.
Tiger IT has carved out a defensible niche. Biometric systems aren't something you can easily commodity outsource—they require specialized knowledge, security protocols, and trust.
Salary Range: 90,000-180,000 taka/month+ for software engineers
The Government Contract Controversy
No discussion of Bangladesh's software industry is complete without addressing the elephant in the room: government procurement controversies.
Between 2019 and 2024, the a2i (Aspire to Innovate) project—a major government digitalization initiative supported by UNDP—procured software through 46 separate contracts. An investigation found that just four companies received 23 of those 46 contracts (50%).
The companies were:
- Tappware Solutions: 6 contracts
- SoftBD: 6 contracts
- Business Automation Limited: 6 contracts
- OrangeBD (Orange IT): 5 contracts
Allegations emerged of a "syndicate" where procurement conditions were allegedly tailor-made to benefit specific companies. This isn't unique to Bangladesh—government tech procurement is notoriously prone to corruption globally. But it illustrates why some companies focus intensely on government contracts while others avoid them entirely.
The International Outsourcing Leaders
Brain Station 23
- Website: https://brainstation-23.com
- Founded: 2006
- Employees: 800+ (700+ software engineers)
- Certifications: CMMI Level 3, ISO 9001, ISO 27001 Projects Completed: 2,000+
If you had to pick one company that represents Bangladesh's software ambitions, it's probably Brain Station 23. They're the largest by headcount, the most diverse in services, and have the strongest international presence with offices in the USA, UK, Australia, Nigeria, and across Europe and the Middle East.
Brain Station 23 does everything. Banking and fintech (they built CityTouch for City Bank, which processes over $3 billion in transactions), e-commerce platforms (the Shwapno supermarket system), ERP implementations (official Odoo partner), learning management systems (Moodle partner with their own Proctoring Pro product), AI and machine learning solutions, AR/VR, mobile apps—the list goes on.
Their client roster reads like a who's who: PayPal, Nissan, British Telecom, Unilever, City Bank, AB Bank, HSBC Bangladesh, MetLife, Grameenphone, Robi, BAT Bangladesh, and multiple pharmaceutical companies.
What makes Brain Station 23 interesting is their hybrid model:
- ~50% international outsourcing
- ~30% own product development (like Intellifriend, their AI time-tracking app)
- ~20% local enterprise solutions
Salary Range: 60,000-220,000 taka/month+ for software engineers
BJIT Group
- Website: https://bjitgroup.com
- Founded: 2007
- Employees: 800+
- Specialization: Japanese market
BJIT took a different approach—instead of trying to serve everyone, they became the go-to partner for Japanese companies. About 80% of their work comes from Japan, with the rest split between Singapore and other markets.
This specialization makes sense. The Japanese market is huge, culturally specific, and historically underserved by South Asian outsourcing. Companies like BJIT that invest in understanding Japanese business culture, communication styles, and quality expectations can command premium rates.
Salary Range: 30,000-220,000 taka/month+ for software engineers
Cefalo Bangladesh Ltd.
- Website: https://www.cefalo.com
- Specialization: Norwegian market
Like BJIT with Japan, Cefalo focused almost exclusively on Norway. They provide full-time capable developers to Norwegian businesses and have built a reputation as one of the best workplaces in Bangladesh.
The salaries reflect Norwegian client budgets:
Salary Range: 65,000-220,000 taka/month+ (senior engineers can earn 185,000-220,000 taka)
That senior engineer salary is exceptional for Bangladesh—roughly $1,700-$2,000/month. Competitive value for Norwegian clients while representing top-tier local compensation.
Enosis Solutions
- Website: https://enosisbd.com
- Founded: 2010
- Employees: 200+
- Focus: US and European markets
Enosis went the American and European route, focusing on web and mobile application development, cloud solutions, and IT consulting using agile methodologies. About 70% of revenue comes from US clients, 20% from Europe, 10% elsewhere.
Salary Range: 50,000-220,000 taka/month+ (well-structured career ladder with clear levels)
Vivasoft Limited
- Website: https://vivasoftltd.com
- Founded: 2010
- Employees: 300+ (180+ dedicated engineers)
- Focus: Team augmentation and offshore office setup
Vivasoft positioned themselves uniquely—instead of just doing custom development, they focus on team augmentation (providing dedicated developers to extend existing teams) and helping companies set up full offshore offices in Bangladesh.
Salary Range: 25,000-220,000 taka/month+ for software engineers
Selise Digital Platforms
- Website: https://selisegroup.com
- Revenue: ~$37.9 million
- Headquarters: Zürich, Switzerland (with Bangladesh operations)
- Ranking: #2 Top Software Company in Bangladesh 2025
Selise is a global IT delivery organization with significant Bangladesh operations. They specialize in advanced computing, AI, data science, and digital platform creation. As a "Swiss tech partner for digital transformation," they bring European quality standards to Bangladeshi talent.
The Product Companies
NerdDevs
- Website: https://nerddevs.com
- Product Website: https://biddaan.com
- Founded: 2015
- Employees: 16+ (small but impactful)
- Specialization: EdTech and messaging solutions
NerdDevs represents a different model—staying small, focusing intensely on specific problems, and building both client work and own products simultaneously.
Their flagship partnership achievement is TestReach, an online assessment platform that ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants), British Council, CIPS, and iSQI use for global examinations. If you've taken a professional certification exam in the UK, there's a decent chance NerdDevs wrote part of the software.
They also built Second Text, a messaging app used in the US market that handles 4-5 million messages monthly—managing that volume reliably requires serious engineering.
For the Bangladesh market, their major products include:
Biddaan (https://biddaan.com) - Their flagship Learning Management System specifically designed for Bangladeshi & International educational institutions. It handles student tracking, progress notes, institution management, and the full administrative stack educational organizations need. The interface is multilingual, which matters—most LMS solutions are English-only, creating barriers for local schools.
Salary Range: 30,000-220,000 taka/month+ for software engineers
BDTask Limited
- Website: https://www.bdtask.com
- Focus: Ready-made software products
While most Bangladeshi companies do client work, BDTask went the opposite direction—they build ready-made software and sell it globally through marketplaces like Envato.
Their product catalog includes accounting software, inventory management, POS systems, school management, hospital management, hotel management, restaurant management, HR and payroll systems—basically every business management need you can think of.
This is a different business model entirely. Instead of getting paid for hours worked or projects completed, they sell licenses—think $50-$500 per copy, with customers in Europe, North America, and Southeast Asia buying directly.
Ollyo (MuktoSoft)
- Website: https://ollyo.com
- Founded: 2010
- Focus: WordPress and Joomla ecosystem
Ollyo took a similar product approach but focused narrowly on WordPress plugins, themes, Joomla extensions, and open-source tools. They're an Envato partner, meaning their products sell through Envato's massive marketplace.
Products include WordPress plugins, Joomla templates, no-code website builders, e-learning platforms, e-commerce solutions, and a free open-source icon library. Some of their work is used by thousands of websites globally.
REVE Systems Ltd.
- Website: https://www.revechat.com
- Focus: VoIP and communications platform software
REVE Systems built telecommunications software—VoIP platforms, communication tools, and enterprise communications solutions used globally. This is highly specialized work requiring understanding of telecommunications protocols, real-time communication, and handling large-scale voice/video traffic.
Salary Range: 50,000-150,000 taka/month+ for software engineers
The Embedded Systems & IoT Specialists
This is a specialized but critical segment of Bangladesh's software industry—companies working on firmware, embedded systems, IoT solutions, and hardware-software integration. These engineers bridge the gap between software code and physical devices.
Samsung R&D Institute Bangladesh (SRBD)
- Website: https://research.samsung.com/srbd
- Founded: February 2011
- Focus: Embedded systems, IoT, cellular modem technology
Samsung chose Bangladesh for its first-ever R&D hub in the country—a strong endorsement of the local engineering talent. SRBD works on cutting-edge embedded systems including cellular modem systems, IoT hardware, and intelligent embedded devices.
What they work on:
- Embedded software and systems engineering
- Cellular modem systems development
- IoT hardware and connectivity systems
- Firmware for Samsung's global product line
Why it matters: When Samsung—one of the world's largest electronics companies—sets up an R&D center in your country, it's a validation of your engineering talent. SRBD employs some of Bangladesh's most skilled embedded systems engineers working on products used globally.
Teton Electronics / Teton Private Ltd.
- Website: https://tetonelectronics.com
- Focus: Firmware development and embedded systems services
Teton Electronics provides comprehensive firmware development services, including:
- Programming and updating embedded firmware
- Integration for different types of microcontrollers and processors
- Hardware-software integration solutions
- Custom embedded systems design
They work across various industries requiring specialized firmware solutions—from consumer electronics to industrial applications.
BJIT Embedded Systems Division
- Website: https://www.bjit.co.jp
- Focus: IoT & Embedded Engineering
BJIT, known for its Japanese market specialization, has a dedicated embedded systems division offering:
- IoT & Embedded Engineering
- Embedded Application Development
- Mechanical Design
- Hardware-software integration
Their Japanese clients demand precision and reliability—qualities that have driven BJIT to develop strong embedded systems capabilities.
Subra Systems Limited
Specialization: Embedded systems and industrial automation
Subra Systems focuses on embedded solutions for industrial applications, where reliability and real-time performance are critical. They work on automation systems, control systems, and industrial IoT solutions.
SIMEC System Ltd.
Specialization: Embedded systems and firmware development
SIMEC provides embedded systems services across various sectors, working on firmware design, implementation, and optimization for different hardware platforms.
Ninos IT Solution
- Website: https://www.ninositsolution.com
- Specialization: Cutting-edge embedded systems design
Ninos IT Solution specializes in designing and developing embedded systems with seamless integration capabilities. They work on projects requiring deep hardware and software knowledge.
The Embedded Systems Job Market:
The demand for embedded systems engineers in Bangladesh is substantial, with approximately 2,921 embedded systems job openings listed on major job portals. Skills in high demand include:
- Embedded software engineering
- IoT development
- LoRaWAN device development
- Firmware design and implementation
- Hardware-software integration
- Robotics and automation
Salary Ranges: 60,000-180,000 taka/month+ for embedded systems engineers (higher due to specialized skills)
Why Embedded Systems Matter:
As the world becomes more connected with smart devices, IoT sensors, and intelligent electronics, embedded systems expertise becomes increasingly valuable. Bangladeshi companies are positioning themselves to serve this growing global market with skilled engineers who understand both hardware and software.
The Tech Startup Scene (The Real Growth Engine)
bKash
- Industry: Mobile Financial Services
- Ranking: #3 Top Startup in Bangladesh
bKash isn't just a startup—it's practically a utility. As Bangladesh's leading mobile financial services provider, bKash has transformed how millions of Bangladeshis send, receive, and store money. With international investment and attention, bKash has attracted significant funding and become one of Bangladesh's most successful tech exports.
Pathao
Founded: 2015
Founders: Hussain Elius, Shifat Adnan, Fahad
Ranking: #6 Top Startup in Bangladesh
Pathao is Bangladesh's "super-app" offering:
- Ride-sharing services (bikes, cars, cycles)
- Food delivery
- Logistics and parcel delivery
- Created over 300,000 jobs in eight years
- Serving 60,000 small businesses
- Over 8 million users
Salary Range: 65,000-180,000 taka/month+ for software engineers
ShopUp
Ranking: #1 Startup in Bangladesh
ShopUp focuses on B2B commerce platform, helping small retailers and businesses source inventory. As Bangladesh's top-ranked startup, ShopUp has attracted significant investor attention and represents the maturation of Bangladesh's startup ecosystem.
Chaldal
Industry: E-commerce grocery
Chaldal has revolutionized grocery shopping in Bangladesh's major cities with its online grocery platform. They've built sophisticated logistics technology and inventory management systems that compete with international players.
Salary Range: 70,000-180,000 taka/month+ for software engineers
Other Notable Startups:
- Shikho - EdTech platform
- Arogga - Healthcare/medicine delivery
- PriyoShop Retail - B2B retail platform
- Shohoz - Transportation and logistics
Startup Ecosystem Growth:
- Bangladesh's startup investment grew 1,116% year-over-year to $119.9 million in H1 2025
- 698+ top startups currently operating
- Middle class growing at 10% per annum to reach 34 million by 2025
2024 Startup Investments That Matter:
- Sombhab (tech startup): $1 million investment from Singapore's Cocoon Capital
- Blue-Tech: $100,000+ foreign investment
- Bangladesh Startup Summit 2024: July 27-28 at Bangladesh Computer Council, theme "Smart Bangladesh, Limitless Possibilities"
- AdTech Recognition: 7 Bangladeshi EdTech startups ranked in South Asia's top 100
The Freelance-to-Company Model (Hidden Giants)
This is the category nobody talks about but it's MASSIVE. Hundreds of software companies in Bangladesh started as individual freelancers on Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer.com, and oDesk (now Upwork).
Here's how it works:
- Developer starts freelancing on Upwork/Fiverr while in university or early career
- Builds reputation, gets 5-star reviews, starts earning $2,000-$5,000/month
- Gets more work than they can handle alone
- Hires friends/junior developers
- Registers a company
- Continues taking contracts through platforms + direct clients
Characteristics of these companies:
- 5-50 employees typically
- Heavy focus on web development (WordPress, Laravel, React, Node.js)
- Strong presence on Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer.com
- Often specialize in specific niches (e-commerce sites, real estate portals, booking systems)
- Salaries: 20,000-150,000 taka/month+ typically
- Revenue: $50,000-$500,000 annually for established agencies
Why this model works:
- Low barrier to entry (no sales team needed—platforms bring clients)
- International clients from day one
- Payment security through platforms
- Can build reputation faster than cold outreach
Notable platforms used:
- Upwork (most popular for software development)
- Fiverr (quick projects, WordPress fixes, small websites)
- Freelancer.com (competitive bidding model)
- PeoplePerHour, Guru (alternative platforms)
Digital Marketing + Software Companies
A growing category of companies combines software development with digital marketing services. These companies often build websites, then handle SEO, content creation, social media marketing, and paid advertising for clients.
Leading Digital Marketing Agencies:
Bizcope (https://www.bizcope.com/)
- Global SEO and digital marketing agency
- Services: SEO, web development, content production, 360-degree digital marketing
Red Sparrow Digital (https://www.redsparrowdigital.com/)
- Full-stack digital marketing agency
- Web design & development, SEO, comprehensive marketing solutions
HYPE DHAKA
- Communications agency
- Services: SEO, email marketing, social media marketing, website development
- 100% positive client reviews according to Clutch.co
Marketorr
- One of the fastest-growing digital marketing agencies
- Deep SEO expertise and full-funnel marketing strategies
Implevista (https://digital.implevista.com/)
- Expert SEO, PPC, and social media marketing (SMM) solutions
Why this model matters:
Many Bangladeshi businesses don't just need software—they need the complete digital package. These companies provide that integrated solution, often at competitive rates compared to Western agencies.
Salary Comparison: The Real Numbers
Let me give you the unvarnished truth about salaries in Bangladesh's software industry. These are ranges based on current market data (2024-2025):
By Experience Level:
| Level | Salary Range (BDT/month) | Salary Range (USD/month) |
|---|---|---|
| Trainee/Intern | 0-15,000 | $0-135 |
| Junior Developer (0-2 years) | 20,000-45,000 | $180-405 |
| Software Engineer (2-5 years) | 50,000-80,000 | $450-720 |
| Senior Engineer (5+ years) | 100,000-220,000 | $900-1,980 |
| Tech Lead/Principal | 165,000-300,000 | $1,485-2,700 |
By Company Type:
| Company Type | Junior | Mid-Level | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Outsourcing | 25,000-35,000 | 50,000-70,000 | 100,000-150,000 |
| Western Outsourcing (Cefalo, Enosis) | 50,000-80,000 | 70,000-130,000 | 185,000-220,000 |
| International Companies (Optimizely, Cheq) | 70,000+ | 120,000+ | 250,000-300,000 |
| Tech Startups (Pathao, Chaldal) | 65,000+ | 70,000-100,000 | 155,000-220,000 |
| Product Companies | 30,000-50,000 | 60,000-90,000 | 100,000-220,000 |
Key Observations:
1. The Entry-Level Reality:
Many companies pay trainee and intern positions 0-10,000 taka monthly (effectively free or near-free labor). It's controversial but common—companies view it as paid training rather than productive work.
2. The International Company Premium:
Companies with international headquarters pay significantly more:
- Optimizely: Senior Software Engineer at 250,000-300,000 taka/month+
- Cheq Inc.: Senior QA Automation Engineer at 180,000-300,000 taka/month+
- Tero Labs: Engineer at 120,000-150,000 taka/month+
3. The Startup Competitiveness:
Local tech companies (Pathao, Chaldal) pay competitively because they compete directly with international employers for talent.
4. Remote Work Premium:
Engineers working remotely for international companies earn substantially more:
- ~$41,465 (average for remote software developers in Bangladesh)
- ~$46,135 (median annual salary for remote software engineers)
- That's 2-4x higher than local salaries
The Complete Company Directory
Government & Enterprise Solutions
- Datasoft Systems Bangladesh: https://datasoftbd.com - CMMI Level 5, government contracts specialist
- Tiger IT Bangladesh: https://www.tigerit.com - Biometric and security systems
- Southtech Limited: https://www.southtech.com.bd - Banking and ERP solutions
- LeadSoft Bangladesh: Financial and insurance platforms
International Outsourcing Leaders
- Brain Station 23: https://brainstation-23.com - Largest diversified player, 800+ employees
- Selise Digital Platforms: https://selisegroup.com - #2 ranked, Swiss-Bangladeshi operations, $37.9M revenue
- BJIT Group: https://bjitgroup.com - Japan market specialist
- Cefalo Bangladesh: https://www.cefalo.com - Norway market specialist
- Enosis Solutions: https://enosisbd.com - US/Europe agile development
- Vivasoft Limited: https://vivasoftltd.com - Team augmentation and offshore setup
Product Companies
-
NerdDevs: https://nerddevs.com - EdTech and messaging solutions
- Biddaan LMS: https://biddaan.com - Learning management system for Bangladesh
- BDTask Limited: https://www.bdtask.com - Ready-made software products
- Ollyo (MuktoSoft): https://ollyo.com - WordPress/Joomla ecosystem
- REVE Systems: https://www.revechat.com - VoIP and communications platforms
Embedded Systems & IoT Companies
- Samsung R&D Institute Bangladesh: https://research.samsung.com/srbd - Embedded systems, IoT, cellular modem (founded 2011)
- Teton Electronics: https://tetonelectronics.com - Firmware development and embedded systems services
- BJIT Embedded Systems: https://www.bjit.co.jp - IoT & Embedded Engineering
- Subra Systems Limited: Embedded systems and industrial automation
- SIMEC System Ltd.: Embedded systems and firmware development
- Ninos IT Solution: https://www.ninositsolution.com - Cutting-edge embedded systems design
Tech Startups (Growth Stage)
- bKash: https://www.bkash.com - Mobile financial services (#3 startup)
- Pathao: https://pathao.com - Super-app: ride-sharing, food delivery, logistics (#6 startup)
- ShopUp: #1 ranked startup - B2B commerce platform
- Chaldal: https://chaldal.com - E-commerce grocery
- Shikho: EdTech platform
- Arogga: Healthcare/medicine delivery
- PriyoShop Retail: B2B retail platform
- Shohoz: Transportation and logistics
Digital Marketing + Software Agencies
- Bizcope: https://www.bizcope.com - SEO, web development, content production
- Red Sparrow Digital: https://www.redsparrowdigital.com - Full-stack digital marketing
- HYPE DHAKA: SEO, email marketing, social media marketing
- Marketorr: Fastest-growing digital marketing agency
- Implevista: https://digital.implevista.com - SEO, PPC, SMM solutions
Smaller Specialists
- Kaz Software: https://www.kaz.com.bd - Enterprise custom development
- Nascenia Limited: https://www.nascenia.com - SaaS product engineering
- Dynamic Solution Innovators: https://www.dsibd.com - E-commerce and ERP
- Dream71 Bangladesh: Mobile games and creative apps
- PipilikaSoft: Education management systems
- Dcastalia Limited: Top 10 ranked software company
Government Contractors (Under Investigation)
- OrangeBD (Orange IT): Infrastructure and cybersecurity
- Tappware Solutions: Software development and maintenance
- SoftBD: Software development services
- Business Automation Limited: Process automation solutions
International Companies with Bangladesh Operations
- Optimizely Bangladesh: Global optimization platform office
- Samsung R&D Bangladesh: Samsung research and development
- Cheq Inc.: Cybersecurity platform
IT Training Institutes
- BASIS Institute of Technology & Management (BITM): bitm.org.bd
- Creative IT Institute: Web development, MERN stack, digital marketing
- Dewan ICT Institute: #1 ranked IT training institute
- European IT Institute: Professional IT training, Dhanmondi
- Softopark IT Institute: Career-boosting IT programs
Resources
- BASIS (Bangladesh Association of Software & Information Services): https://basis.org.bd - Industry association
- DoICT (Directorate of ICT): https://doict.gov.bd - Government ICT initiatives
- Salary Data: https://tahanima.github.io/salary-ranges-offered-by-bangladeshi-software-companies-for-different-positions/
What This All Means
Bangladesh's software industry has reached an interesting inflection point. The early stage of just doing outsourcing for international clients is maturing into something more sophisticated.
Companies like Brain Station 23, NerdDevs, and Selise show it's possible to move up the value chain—not just writing code someone else specifies, but building products, solving complex problems, and working with prestigious international clients. TestReach (NerdDevs' platform) being used by British Council and ACCA isn't just outsourcing—it's being the technical partner for critical global infrastructure.
The government digitalization push, despite procurement controversies, created a domestic market for software. Companies like Datasoft and Tiger IT built genuinely hard technology (national ID systems, biometric platforms) that required serious engineering.
The product companies (BDTask, Ollyo, Biddaan) demonstrate that Bangladeshi developers can compete globally in marketplaces and create solutions used by thousands of businesses and schools.
The startup ecosystem (bKash, Pathao, ShopUp, Chaldal) shows that world-class consumer platforms can be built from Bangladesh for Bangladesh—and eventually for emerging markets globally.
But challenges remain real. Salaries lag far behind international standards. A "senior" engineer in Bangladesh earning $2,000/month would be entry-level pay in the US or Europe. This creates brain drain—talented developers leave for opportunities abroad. Companies struggle to retain their best engineers once they get two-three years experience and realize their market value elsewhere.
Infrastructure issues persist. Power grid losses, internet reliability in secondary cities, and reliance on Dhaka for most operations limit growth. The skills gap in advanced technologies (AI, machine learning, blockchain) means many companies can't compete for cutting-edge work.
The procurement corruption allegations around government contracts raise questions about whether that sector is sustainable long-term without serious reform.
Still, the trajectory is impressive. From essentially nothing twenty years ago to a billion-dollar industry employing hundreds of thousands, with serious companies working on real problems for real international clients—that's meaningful progress.
The Future: Where Bangladesh's Software Industry Is Headed
The software industry Bangladesh built over fifteen years is real, substantial, and growing. It's not Silicon Valley, and it's not trying to be. It's something different—a developing country using its advantages (cost, talent, English proficiency) to build an export industry while simultaneously digitizing its own economy.
What to watch in 2026-2030:
AI and ML Adoption: As global demand for AI talent explodes, Bangladesh's value proposition could drive growth—if the skills gap can be addressed
Startup Exits: Bangladesh has yet to see a major IPO or acquisition. When bKash, Pathao, or ShopUp exit, it will unlock capital and validate the ecosystem
Government Reform: If procurement becomes transparent and merit-based, government contracts could drive sustainable growth rather than creating dependencies
Regional Expansion: Bangladeshi companies are well-positioned to serve other emerging markets in South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Africa
Remote Work: As remote work becomes normalized, Bangladeshi developers can work directly for international companies at international rates—reducing brain drain
Product Success: BDTask, Ollyo, and NerdDevs are showing that products can scale. More success stories here could shift the industry from services to products
Freelance Professionalization: The freelance-to-company pipeline will likely formalize, creating more sustainable agencies rather than individual freelancer outfits
The story of Bangladesh's software industry isn't just about affordable services. It's about a country leveraging its human capital to participate in the global digital economy. It's about companies like Datasoft building national infrastructure, NerdDevs powering global examinations, and Pathao transforming transportation.
It's about 400,000 professionals building their futures one line of code at a time.
That's a story worth paying attention to.
References
Industry Statistics & Market Data
- Software - Bangladesh | Statista Market Forecast
- Bangladesh ICT Market Analysis | Mordor Intelligence
- BASIT Software and IT Services Catalog 2021
- Export earnings in technology sector exceeds $1.3 billion
- $5b ICT export target missed by huge margin
- Software companies earn $840m in export revenue in FY24
- IT AND ITES INDUSTRY OVERVIEW - BASIS
Salary & Compensation Data
- Salary ranges offered by Bangladeshi Software Companies
- Senior Software Engineer Salary in Dhaka | Levels.fyi
- Senior Software Engineer Salary | Glassdoor
- Average Senior Software Engineer Salary in Bangladesh | PayScale
- Remote Software Engineer Salary in Bangladesh | Arc.dev
- Cost of outsourcing software development by country 2025
Company Rankings & Lists
- Best Software Companies in Bangladesh 2026 | iBOS
- Top 25 Best Software Companies in Bangladesh 2026 | Kaz Software
- Top 20 Best Software Companies in Bangladesh 2026 | Vivasoft
- Top 10 Software Companies in Bangladesh 2025 | Dcastalia
- 100 Bangladeshi Software Companies | LinkedIn
Startup Ecosystem
- Top Startups in Bangladesh | StartupBlink
- Top 10 Tech Startups In Bangladesh 2026 | TipsOI
- Bangladesh's Top 10 Startups | Nucamp
- Bangladesh Startup Ecosystem Report | LightCastle Partners
Digital Marketing Agencies
- Top Content Marketing Companies in Bangladesh | Clutch
- Top 20 SEO Companies in Bangladesh 2026 | SuperbCompanies
- Top 20+ Content Marketing Agencies in Bangladesh | TechBehemoths
Outsourcing Comparisons
- Top 10 Southeast Asian Countries for Software Outsourcing | Proquantic
- Cost of outsourcing software development by country 2025 | Geniusee
- Top South Asian Countries to Hire Software Development | Vivasoft
- Top 10 Outsourcing Countries to Watch in 2025 | Innovature
Freelance & Marketplace Resources
- Top 15 Freelancing Websites in Bangladesh For 2026 | ViserX
- Top 7 Freelancing Websites in Bangladesh | ElevatePay
- Best Freelancers in Bangladesh | Truelancer
- Best Upwork Alternatives | Graphic Design Eye
Embedded Systems & IoT
- Top Embedded Systems Companies in Bangladesh | Ensun
- Samsung R&D Institute Bangladesh | Samsung Research
- Firmware Development Services | Teton Electronics
- IoT & Embedded Engineering | BJIT
- Embedded Systems Company in Bangladesh | Ninos IT Solution
- Top 10 IT Company in Bangladesh | Teton Electronics
Government & Policy
- The IT & ITES Goldmine – Bangladesh is Open for Business | BIDA
- DoICT | Directorate of ICT
- National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence Bangladesh
Company Reviews & Salary Data (Bangla Sources)
- Deshi Mula - Company Review Platform
- বাংলাদেশে সফটওয়্যার ও ওয়েব ডেভেলপমেন্টের চাহিদা, বেতন ও ... | Dev.to
Academic & Research
- Absent of software regulation and regulator in Bangladesh | Journal
- Bangladesh and USA: ICT frontier to explore | ResearchGate
- Bangladesh: Country Private Sector Diagnostic | IFC
This blog is based on publicly available information as of January 2026. Company details, salaries, and situations may change. All salary figures are approximate based on employee reports and job postings.
End
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