Deadline: 11-Jun-2026
The U.S. Embassy Nepal is inviting proposals for the Entrepreneurship Accelerator and Innovation Challenge Program to strengthen entrepreneurship, innovation, and business collaboration between the United States and Nepal.
The initiative supports practical, innovation-driven projects that help Nepali entrepreneurs build market-ready ventures while expanding commercial ties with U.S. businesses, investors, mentors, and technology networks.
Focus Areas
The programme supports:
- Entrepreneurship development
- Innovation and startup growth
- U.S.–Nepal commercial collaboration
- Market-ready business ventures
- Economic growth and job creation
- Business mentorship and networking
- Innovation ecosystem development
- Cross-border business engagement
The initiative also promotes:
- American entrepreneurship best practices
- Technology and innovation partnerships
- Sustainable business development
- Early-stage venture acceleration
Funding Support
Selected projects may receive:
- Between USD 10,000 and USD 50,000
Project duration:
- Up to 12 months
The programme supports:
- Entrepreneurship training
- Innovation challenges
- Venture acceleration activities
- Networking and mentorship initiatives
- Business development programmes
Programme Features
The initiative includes:
- A two-day entrepreneurship growth sprint
- Hands-on business development support
- Practical venture-building workshops
- Mentorship and networking opportunities
- Guidance on refining and formalising business models
Participants will gain:
- Step-by-step entrepreneurial guidance
- Market readiness support
- Access to innovation networks
- Opportunities for future collaboration and investment
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include organisations and entities capable of:
- Supporting entrepreneurship programmes
- Delivering innovation-focused initiatives
- Connecting entrepreneurs with mentors and investors
- Strengthening startup ecosystems in Nepal
The programme is particularly relevant for:
- Early-stage entrepreneurs
- Ventures operating for less than five years
- Innovation-focused startup support organisations
Why This Initiative Matters
The initiative aims to:
- Strengthen U.S.–Nepal business relations
- Promote innovation-led economic growth
- Support startup ecosystem development
- Encourage entrepreneurship and job creation
- Expand opportunities for commercial collaboration
It also aligns with:
- Freedom 250
- U.S. innovation and entrepreneurship leadership goals
How to Apply
Applicants should:
- Develop a practical entrepreneurship or innovation proposal
- Demonstrate impact on startup and business growth
- Include mentorship, training, or networking components
- Show potential for sustainable economic outcomes
- Submit the application according to programme guidelines
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applicants should avoid:
- Submitting unclear implementation plans
- Weak entrepreneurship or innovation components
- Limited sustainability strategies
- Lack of market relevance
- Incomplete project proposals
FAQ
- Who is offering the programme?
- The programme is offered by the U.S. Embassy Nepal.
- What is the funding range?
- Projects may receive between USD 10,000 and USD 50,000.
- How long can projects last?
- Projects may run for up to 12 months.
- Who benefits from the programme?
- Nepali entrepreneurs, startups, and innovation-focused initiatives.
- What is included in the growth sprint?
- Practical business training, mentorship, networking, and venture development support.
Conclusion
The U.S. Embassy Nepal Entrepreneurship Accelerator and Innovation Challenge Program supports innovation, startup growth, and entrepreneurship development in Nepal through funding, mentorship, training, and cross-border business collaboration opportunities with the United States.
For more information, visit U.S. Embassy Nepal.