KATHMANDU, JANUARY 25

The U.S. Embassy's Creators Mela 2026 – Nepalgunj Edition concluded successfully, engaging more than 1,000 aspiring content creators and aiming to accelerate the growth of Nepal's creative economy.

Held under the theme "Vision to Venture," this year's edition marked a strategic shift from digital content creation to building sustainable professional and business enterprises. The programme focused on helping creators transform digital influence into long-term careers by integrating U.S. expertise in technology, monetisation, digital platforms and business development.

Addressing the event, U.S. Embassy Nepal's Public Affairs Chief Mike Harker said, "Creators Mela 2026 demonstrates the U.S. commitment to strengthening Nepal's creative economy. By expanding knowledge, skills, and networks across Nepal, we are supporting entrepreneurship and job creation. We are preparing Nepali creators not only for local impact, but also for success with U.S. business partners and global markets-encouraging deeper economic ties and shared prosperity."

The Nepalgunj edition featured more than 50 creators, artists and industry experts. Performances and sessions were led by singer Sajjan Raj Vaidya and artists Priyanka Karki, Aayushman Joshi, Eva Giri, 2B Gamer, Lex Limbu, Kabita Nepali and Nepal Eighth Wonder, among others. Interactive workshops and panel discussions highlighted pathways from digital storytelling to commercial success.

A major highlight was the "Pitch to Success" segment, where emerging creators presented business ideas to a panel of corporate leaders, including Anand Bagaria of Nimbus, Cabinet Shrestha of Agni Group and Bishakha Khadka Kunwar of Ncell.

Launched in 2023, Creators Mela has become a key platform in Nepal's digital landscape. Now in its fourth edition, the 2026 initiative reaffirms the U.S. Embassy's focus on commercialising the creator economy. The multi-city programme, already held in Chitwan and Nepalgunj, will conclude in Kathmandu on January 30–31, 2026.