KATHMANDU, NOVEMBER 20

Idea Studio Nepal and Dalit Lives Matter Global Alliance (DLMGA) have jointly opened applications for Season 8 of Idea Studio Nepal under the theme "Breaking Barriers, Building Futures" during a press conference at the corporate office in Anamnagar.

Season 8 mindfully imbibes inclusivity in entrepreneurship, enabling Dalits and people from socially excluded communities to ideate and access opportunities, fostering innovation and an entrepreneurial mindset, according to the press release issued by the organizers.

Dr. Tshering Lama, Executive Chairperson of Idea Studio Nepal, highlighted the importance of this collaboration and the role of inclusion in entrepreneurship, stating, "We have been identifying and bringing forward hidden ideas since the first season. Although there has been representation from all communities, for various reasons, some individuals were compelled to leave their businesses. Therefore, we now see the need to prioritize communities who have been left behind. To achieve this, we plan to make Idea Studio Nepal more inclusive by incorporating the experience and expertise of Dalit Lives Matter."

The press conference brought together representatives from the Government of Nepal, national and international experts, financial institutions, past participants, media personnel, and allies from both organizations.

Dr. Lama discussed the newly established Information, Advice, and Guidance Center (IAG Center), aimed at providing support to returnee Nepali migrants in utilizing their skills and knowledge.

"We are committed to making Idea Studio Nepal more inclusive by incorporating the experience and expertise of Dalit Lives Matter," Dr. Lama added. He also announced a new program, "Prabhu Idea Plus," in collaboration with Prabhu Bank, which will establish incubation centers in three colleges in Gandaki Province.

Pradip Pariyar, Founding Chairperson of DLMGA, expressed optimism about the collaboration, stating, "We are actively working to develop exemplary leadership in all sectors, ensuring that Dalit and marginalized communities receive equal opportunities. I am optimistic that my vision of enabling 1,500 young entrepreneurs will be realized through this partnership. I hope we won't need to discuss inclusivity in the next 50 years."

Dr. Ghana Shyam Gurung, Country Representative at WWF Nepal, emphasized the importance of diversity, stating, "Diversity within every institution and sector leads to diversity in entrepreneurship." Shiny Khetan and Punit Agrawal from CNIYEF also expressed their commitment to support the initiative through mentorship and investment opportunities.

During the program Former ideators shared their journeys. Anil Basnet ideator of Season 1 and founder of iMart shared the details of the Founders Club, now comprising 131 successful entrepreneurs. Sudarshan Siwakoti ideator of Season 7 and Co-Founder of Motor Sewa Pvt. Ltd., employing 30 people directly and indirectly. Supriya Shakya ideator of Season 3 and Co-Founder of Nepal Med, credited Idea Studio Nepal for the validation and commercialization of her business.

The application process is open now and can be accessed via the Idea Studio Nepal website and their social media channels till December 15, the organizers said.