The Handicraft Industry in Bangladesh is a vital contributor to the country’s culture and global economy, facing both growth prospects and challenges. This study examines the industry’s global and local landscape, product categories, business models, costs, exports, and consumer preferences. The global handicraft market is flourishing, reaching USD 752.2 billion in 2022, and it is set to hit USD 1,296.6 billion by 2028. Bangladesh, a significant exporter, employs 1.48 lakh people, generating BDT 2,380.6 crore in 2022. Bangladesh’s handicraft sector anticipates steady growth, contributing 5.7% to the economy by 2026. This study looks into the business model of this sector and outlines startup intricacies, covering investment, production, labor, marketing, and distribution. Although handicraft exports from Bangladesh slowed in FY2023 as compared to FY2022, they are offering opportunities arising from a change in lifestyle to eco-friendly products globally, cultural promotion, and government policies. The sector faces challenges such as utility crisis, skill development, quality control, and raw material price fluctuations. Nevertheless, this study also includes consumer preference analysis highlighting young to middle-aged buyers with varying incomes and education levels. While purchases are infrequent, satisfaction is high, and recommendations are likely. Preferences lean towards Pottery/Ceramics, Textiles, and Woodcraft. Bangladesh’s handicraft industry holds growth potential with strategic interventions, government support, infrastructure enhancements, and a focus on sustainability that can propel the industry, showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage on the global stage.