Bangladesh’s first ecosystem marketplace app has been introduced, bringing together freelancing, healthcare, insurance, bill payments and other citizen services on a single platform.
The beta version will initially offer bill payments and basic internet services. Over time, new features will be added, including Carnival Learning — an online skills platform in Bangla to prepare users for freelancing, as well as an English learning programme in partnership with BBC Janala; Carnival Care — a telemedicine and healthcare service developed with global partners such as Abbott to make medical services more accessible in rural areas; Carnival Assure — a micro-insurance aggregator providing health and life coverage in collaboration with leading insurers; and B-Seller — a zero-investment reselling platform enabling anyone with internet access to earn additional income.
At a press conference in Gulshan, company executives said the new Carnival app will allow users to access world-class fibre broadband internet services along with skills training, job opportunities, healthcare solutions and financial protection.
Carnival Internet, the country’s largest fibre broadband provider, believes broadband can be more than just reliable global connectivity — it can become a tool to transform lives across both cities and villages.
The initiative reflects a broader vision of Dotlines Group, which owns Carnival Internet. Under its umbrella are several ventures including Carnival Care, B-Seller and Carnival Assure, designed to form a complete ecosystem with a direct impact on rural communities through technology.
Carnival Internet’s Group CMO Hasan Mehdi noted that while Bangladeshi youth are contributing to the global economy, many struggle with English proficiency and nearly 80% lack market-relevant skills. With youth unemployment hovering at 47%, a significant portion of the population remains without sustainable income.
Healthcare challenges are also acute, with only seven doctors available per 10,000 patients. Families often spend up to 70% of their savings on medical emergencies, while insurance penetration remains extremely low at just 0.5% of GDP.
The Carnival app, combining internet services with healthcare, micro-insurance, skills training and employment opportunities, aims to address these gaps and create an integrated platform for sustainable social and economic impact.
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