National Survey and Segmentation of Smallholder Households, Bangladesh

Bangladesh has been a global leader in financial inclusion. But are these gains reaching smallholder households? What are the constraints that hold farming families back? And where are the opportunities to better serve this diverse, important client group with the financial tools they need?

To answer these questions, CGAP conducted a nationally representative survey of smallholder households in 2016, working closely with the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics. The survey explored the agricultural and nonagricultural activities, financial practices and interests, and challenges and aspirations of smallholder families throughout Bangladesh. 

This working paper provides more detail on these points and profiles the four main segments of smallholder households in Bangladesh. These results are designed to identify opportunities for financial services providers, government partners, and donors to better meet the needs of smallholder families for a range of financial tools.