For nearly four decades, Bengal Foundation has championed the rich artistic and cultural heritage of Bangladesh. We were established on a simple yet powerful belief: that exposure to the arts inspires compassion, elevates quality of life, and enriches society as a whole. Today, we run dynamic programmes spanning music, visual art, literature, and crafts. Deeply rooted in local traditions while engaging with contemporary practice, Bengal Foundation bridges the past and present through curated exhibitions, live recitals, documentation, and creative exchange. As an independently funded, non-profit trust, Bengal Foundation operates purely for the benefit of the public and pursues the policy of making its endeavours accessible and open for all.

Bengal Arts Programme supports the practice and understanding of visual art in Bangladesh, acting as a platform where artists, curators, and researchers can exchange ideas and develop their work. The programme integrates exhibitions, a major permanent collection, research and conservation, education and residencies, publications, and a modest portfolio of grants and awards.

For decades, Bengal Foundation has promoted Bengali music to nurture and uphold the region’s rich traditions. The Foundation organizes recitals, releases recordings, hosts workshops, and provides advanced training under distinguished teachers at Bengal Parampara Sangeetalay. Additionally, the programme organises major events, including the Bengal Classical Music Festival—the world’s largest in performer numbers, capacity, and duration. By deepening public appreciation of musical fundamentals, Bengal Foundation continues to energise, influence, and elevate the music industry across Bangladesh.

The tradition of crafts in Bengal has existed for centuries. These ancient techniques were passed down from one generation to the next, and have been kept alive by skilled artisans throughout the region even to this day. Bengal Foundation's interest and involvement in crafts is aligned with its mission to conserve culture and tradition. For over a decade the Foundation has worked together with national and global institutions to revitalise the craft industry, give away awards and research grants, and organize exhibitions and fairs.

Bengal Foundation publishes a range of books, magazines and folios that promote and encourage the practice of contemporary Bangladeshi art, literature and music; as part of its Publishing Programme. In addition to publishing fiction and non-fiction, the Foundation releases several independent periodicals in both Bengali and English. The Programme also gives out awards and creates opportunities for established and aspiring writers to practice their craft.

Bengal Foundation holds to the belief that cultivation of knowledge and intellectual curiosity is essential in creating a just and inclusive society. Recognising the need for support in the cultural arena, the Foundation gives our modest research grants, organises talks and discussions, and provides structural support.

Starting in the year 2000, the Foundation has produced and commissioned short documentaries on festivals, art camps, and exceptional cultural icons, capturing their philosophies, work processes and environment. Bengal Cinema Development Forum (BCDF) was introduced in 2013 as a platform for young and upcoming filmmakers. The Forum focuses on supporting young, promising filmmakers and directors.