The U.S. – Nepal Startup Weekend Challenge is an accelerator-style entrepreneurship event that brings together early-stage business founders, aspiring entrepreneurs and students from across Nepal to collaboratively develop startup ventures inspired by U.S. innovation models.
The Challenge follows an intensive three-day format, where participants in groups of 3 – 5 members, come together to develop innovative startups, attend curated training and workshops, receive expert mentorship and pitch their startup ventures to a distinguished panel of judges.
Welcome and OrientationOpening session outlining event goals, rules and expectations, key-note speech and ice-breaker activities will be conducted.
Inspirational TalkEntrepreneurs will deliver an inspirational talk sharing their entrepreneurial journey, challenges faced and lessons learned.
Workshops and Training SessionsSessions led by expert facilitators on business fundamentals will be held.
Workshops and Training SessionsSessions led by expert facilitators on business fundamentals will be held.
MentorshipsTargeted one-on-one mentorship from Nepali and U.S. experts to help participating teams refine their ideas will be conducted.
Pitching and Storytelling WorkshopDedicated session to help participants master the art of pitching and communicating their ideas with clarity and confidence will be organized.
Pitch preparation and mock sessionsParticipating teams will refine and rehearse their final presentations through mock pitches.
Final Pitch CompetitionTeams will present their ideas before a distinguished panel of judges.
Evaluation and AwardsThe panel of judges will assess pitches and the top three teams receive seed funding.
Networking and DinnerParticipants will get an opportunity to network and engage with event facilitators, judges, mentors and peers.
Engage with seasoned entrepreneurs, investors and mentors who bring invaluable experience and insights from diverse industries. Build relationships that can open possibilities of future collaboration, funding opportunities and professional growth.
Experience the full entrepreneurial journey, from ideation to pitching, through hands-on trainings and targeted mentorship. Gain practical skills in validating ideas, identifying target customers and testing business models, simulating the pace of a real startup environment.
Present your startup ideas before a distinguished panel of judges and compete for seed capital to help transform your startup ideas into sustainable, high-impact ventures
U.S. Embassy Nepal
The U.S. – Nepal Startup Weekend Challenge is an accelerator-style three day entrepreneurship event that brings early-stage business founders, aspiring entrepreneurs and students from across Nepal to collaboratively develop startup ventures inspired by U.S. innovation models.
Over three days, participants in teams of 3-5 members come together to develop innovative startups, attend workshops and trainings, receive mentorship from industry experts, and pitch their startup ideas to a distinguished panel of judges.
Early-stage business founders, aspiring entrepreneurs and Bachelors’ and Masters’ level students from any field who are passionate about innovation and entrepreneurship are encouraged to apply to the U.S. – Nepal Startup Weekend Challenge. Participation is team-based and each team must comprise of a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 5 members.
Any team composition is welcome. However, teams with diverse members and complementary skill sets are encouraged.
Yes, teams can include students from the same or different colleges and universities.
Yes, teams are required to come with a startup idea they would like to develop during the event. This idea must also be clearly described in the application form as it will be an important part of the selection process.
Participants are encouraged to propose innovative, impactful and scalable startup ideas that address real-world challenges and reflect elements of U.S. innovation models such as ethical leadership, resilience and creativity. Ideas can come from any sector or industry, as long as they demonstrate potential for growth and impact.
No, participation in the U.S. – Nepal Startup Weekend Challenge is free of cost.
Interested teams can apply by filling up the online application form at the link: https://bit.ly/4ha4S1F.
The application deadline is 14th December, 2025 (Sunday). Interested participants must submit their application before the deadline to be considered for selection.
Selected participants will be notified via email. The email will confirm their selection and include details about the event schedule, venue, orientation and logistics. Applicants who are not selected will also receive a notification email thanking them for their interest and participation in the application process.
Participants must bring a laptop and charger for team work. Notebooks, pens, and other necessary materials will be provided on Day 1 during orientation.
No. All participants will attend the Startup Weekend Challenge each day and return in the evening. All meals and refreshments will be provided during the event. For participants from outside of valley, an accommodation stipend will be provided to cover three days of lodging expenses.
Each team will prepare presentation slides summarizing their startup idea, including topics like the problem statement, solution, business model, target market, and financial plan. Templates and pitch guidelines will be provided during the event.
The top three teams will receive seed funding to further develop their ventures. In addition to seed funding, winners will also gain access to business development support and mentorship and networking opportunities with industry experts, investors, and ecosystem partners.
Yes. Participation throughout all three days of the Challenge is mandatory for every selected participant.
If you have any queries, you can email us at startupweekend@onetowatch.nl or contact us at Sony Shrestha (9841293741) or Rahul Kansakar (9860396421).