CHITWAN, JANUARY 18 The U.S. Embassy in Nepal has launched Creator's Mela 2026: Vision to Venture, a multi-city initiative aimed at accelerating the growth of Nepal's creative economy by helping digital creators transition from content creation to sustainable professional enterprises. The 2026 edition of Creator's Mela began on Saturday at Hotel Siraichuli in Chitwan, marking the first stop of the nationwide programme. The inaugural Chitwan event saw the participation of more than 800 young and emerging digital creators, highlighting the growing interest in Nepal's digital and creator economy. The day-long programme featured parallel sessions across two halls, including panel discussions, spotlight conversations, hands-on workshops, live performances and the flagship Pitch to Success platform, designed to support creators in shaping viable business ideas.

Prominent speakers and performers at the Chitwan programme included actors Priyanka Karki and Ayushman Joshi, along with Cabinet Shrestha, Anand Bagaria and Sandhya KC. Popular digital creators such as 2B Gamer, Eva Giri, Shrishes Manandhar, Ekata Tandukar, Nepal 8th Wonder and The K-OS also took part in the sessions. The event concluded with a live music performance by singer Yabesh Thapa. Creator's Mela 2026 will continue in Nepalgunj on January 24, followed by a two-day finale in Kathmandu on January 30 and 31. A key highlight of the Kathmandu programme will be Pitch to Success, where selected creators will present their business ventures to a panel of leading Nepali corporate executives for direct feedback and mentorship. Organised under the theme Vision to Venture, this year's mela is designed to bridge the gap between digital storytelling and professional enterprise. By incorporating U.S. expertise in technology, platform monetisation and digital business development, the initiative aims to provide creators with practical tools to scale their influence into long-term careers and sustainable businesses.

'Creator's Mela 2026 reflects the United States' commitment to strengthening Nepal's creative economy,' said Mike Harker, Public Affairs Chief at the U.S. Embassy Nepal. 'By enhancing knowledge, skills, and networks nationwide, we are supporting entrepreneurship and job creation. We are positioning Nepali creators not just for local influence, but for success with American business partners and in global markets, fostering deeper economic ties and shared prosperity.'