KATHMANDU, MARCH 24 The US Embassy in Nepal has launched a nationwide entrepreneurship skill-building programme aimed at supporting early-stage businesses with practical tools for growth and global competitiveness. The initiative, rolled out in partnership with the International Development Institute (IDI) and Aadyanta Advisory, commenced in Nepalgunj, targeting participants from Lumbini Province, and will expand to other major cities including Dhangadi, Biratnagar, Janakpur, Hetauda, Bhairahawa and Pokhara. According to the embassy, around 200 entrepreneurs from all seven provinces will take part in a combination of in-person workshops and virtual bootcamps under the programme. The training will cover key areas such as business fundamentals, market validation, investor communication, digital marketing and export readiness, with the aim of helping participants build sustainable enterprises and access investment opportunities. Public Affairs Chief at the US Embassy Nepal, Mike Harker, said entrepreneurs play a critical role in driving economic growth and innovation. He noted that supporting Nepali startups would strengthen the country's private sector and create new avenues for trade and commercial cooperation between Nepal and the United States. The programme is part of the broader US–Nepal Commercial Diplomacy Series, which seeks to deepen economic ties by promoting entrepreneurship, innovation and private sector development. Organisers said the initiative will also connect participants with mentors, investors and industry experts, helping refine business models and prepare ventures for potential partnerships with American firms. The programme is being implemented by the International Development Institute and Aadyanta Advisory in collaboration with the American Chamber of Commerce Nepal and the Global Impact Collective.