Kathmandu— A nationwide campaign titled Startup Summit Nepal 2026 was launched on Thursday at the Central Library Hall of Tribhuvan University in Kathmandu. The initiative, themed “The Role of Startups in Nation Building,” aims to curb youth migration by creating opportunities for young people within Nepal and fostering an environment that supports innovation and entrepreneurship.

Campaign Objectives

The campaign seeks to harness the talent and creativity of Nepali youth at home instead of allowing it to be lost to overseas migration. According to Shova Gyawali, Chairperson of Startup Summit Nepal 2026, “Our biggest challenge today is brain drain. We must now transform it into brain gain.” The initiative will provide practical guidance on startup development, business registration, business planning, access to finance, startup loans, market expansion, and the challenges and opportunities of running enterprises.

Support from Educational Institutions

TU Vice Chancellor Bhola Thapa emphasized that university education should not only prepare students for employment but also encourage entrepreneurship. He pledged the university’s support for similar initiatives and said such programs should be expanded nationwide. The campaign will be expanded to all seven provinces and 77 districts through partnerships with universities, colleges, schools, government agencies, the private sector, and financial institutions.

Expert Insights

Former Executive Director of the Industrial Enterprise Development Institute, Engineer Umesh Kumar Gupta Rauniyar, highlighted that successful entrepreneurship depends more on planning, determination, and consistent effort than on large amounts of capital. He also delivered a presentation on company registration, legal procedures, market research, investment management, and startup financing.

Success Stories

The event featured success stories of Nepali startup founders and entrepreneurs who returned from foreign employment to establish businesses in Nepal. Students participated in an interactive session on entrepreneurship, investment, business expansion, and government policies.

(With inputs from My Republica)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.