In describing the selection process, Forbes said the 100 to Watch list is drawn from online submissions and nominations by accelerators, incubators, universities, and venture capital firms. Images: Collected

Two Bangladeshi startups, Pathao and Shomvob, have been included in Forbes Asia 100 to Watch 2025, an annual list showcasing startups across the Asia-Pacific region.

Pathao, founded in 2015, was listed under the Consumer Technology category. The company runs an app that offers ride-hailing, food delivery, e-commerce, and logistics services. According to Forbes, Pathao raised $12 million in a pre-series B round last year led by VentureSouq, taking its total funding past $50 million. The fresh investment is aimed at expanding its fintech arm, including Pathao Pay, a digital wallet, and Pay Later, a buy now, pay later service, added Forbes.

Shomvob, founded in 2022, was also named in the Consumer Technology category. The platform helps job seekers create digital profiles, apply for positions, and access online training, while companies can use it for recruitment and payroll services, according to the list. As per Forbes, the startup received a $300,000 grant from the Gates Foundation in 2023 and raised $1 million in pre-seed funding last May in a round led by Singapore-based Cocoon Capital.

In describing the selection process, Forbes said the 100 to Watch list is drawn from online submissions and nominations by accelerators, incubators, universities, and venture capital firms. Eligible companies must be based in the Asia-Pacific region, privately owned, and for-profit, with no more than $50 million in annual revenue and no more than $100 million in total funding as of August 15. Submissions were judged on factors such as market fit, industry impact, business model, growth record, innovation, and ability to attract investors.