Why Become a Member of ECOTA
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Join ECOTA to empower artisans and grow.

Join the largest network of fair trade organizations and SMEs in Bangladesh, dedicated to empowering artisans and promoting sustainable trade. Since 1990, ECOTA has supported over 150,000 artisans—50% of whom are women from disadvantaged backgrounds—across 62 artisan groups. By becoming a member, you’ll gain access to exclusive benefits that help your organization grow, thrive, and make a lasting impact.

Key Benefits of Joining ECOTA:

  • Access specialized training programs for skill development.

  • Utilize our comprehensive Export Readiness Tool to enter global markets.

  • Receive expert guidance on product development and international trade processes.

  • Showcase your products on our platform and connect with buyers worldwide.

  • Participate in advocacy efforts promoting fair trade at the government level.

  • Network with industry professionals and fellow artisans.

  • Join the World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO) through ECOTA’s network.

  • Be part of the largest fair trade SME body in Bangladesh.

Eligibility Criteria for Joining ECOTA

Any organization (non-government, profit-making, local, national, or international development organization based in Bangladesh) active in the field of crafts and hand-woven textiles, and registered with the Government of Bangladesh, is eligible to apply for membership with the ECOTA Fair Trade Forum (EFTF). These organizations must be committed to practicing and promoting Fair Trade and Ethical Trade principles.

  • Eligibility and Application:

    Organizations involved in crafts and hand-woven textiles, registered in Bangladesh, and committed to Fair and Ethical Trade can apply for membership. The first step is filling out and submitting the Preliminary Information Form along with supporting documents like registration certificates and audited accounts.

  • Site Visit and Review:

    After receiving the application, ECOTA arranges a site visit to assess the organization's activities and compliance with Fair Trade practices. A report is prepared and submitted to the Executive Committee for review.

  • Approval and Membership Progression

    Upon approval by the Executive Committee, the organization is granted Associate Membership for one year. After this period, they can apply for General Membership, subject to further review.

Types of Membership

Awarded to organizations fulfilling the membership requirements for a one-year period. After completing one year, Associate Members are eligible to apply for General Membership, pending approval from the Executive Committee.
General Membership is awarded to Associate Members who have demonstrated their commitment to promoting Fair and Ethical Trade and have received approval from the Executive Committee.
Individuals can apply for Affiliate Membership. However, Affiliate Members are not eligible to become General Members.

How to Join

How to Join Us:

  • Download the Preliminary Information Form:

    The form is available on our website. Fill it out and submit it via post or email. Click here to download.

  • Site Visit:

    After receiving your completed form, we will arrange a visit to your organization to observe your handicraft activities and assess compliance with Fair Trade practices.

  • Committee Review:

    The site visit report, along with the Preliminary Information Form, will be presented to the Executive Committee for consideration.

  • Membership Approval:

    If the Executive Committee determines that your organization actively promotes Fair Trade and meets the objectives of EFTF, your organization will be awarded Associate Membership for one year. After one year, Associate Members can apply for General Membership, which is subject to Executive Committee approval.

Download Membership Form

Application Requirements

  • Must have a valid development and/or business registration with the Government of Bangladesh.

  • Must be involved in the Handicraft or Hand-Woven Textile sectors, with at least one year of work experience.

  • Submit the following along with the Preliminary Information Form: Copy of Legal Registration certificate, Last audited accounts, Organizational profile, List of producers, Producers’ pay slips, and o HR/Employment policy.

  • The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) or head of the concerned organization must represent the organization in the General Body (GB) meetings.

  • Willingness to share knowledge and ideas with other members.

  • One time pay admission fees BDT 10,000.

  • Commitment to pay yearly membership fees

Membership Fees

Become a member of ECOTA

Join the largest community of fair trade organizations in Bangladesh.

Register Now