Kathmandu, Feb 4 (NationPress) - Founders of Nepali startups who recently engaged in a training and exploration trip to India's vibrant startup ecosystem described their involvement as a pivotal moment that facilitated their transition from initial developmental stages to market-ready innovations.

A group of approximately twenty Nepali startup founders participated in an extensive eight-week, fully funded training and innovation initiative through the India-Nepal Start-up Partnership Network (IN-SPAN), which wrapped up in late January.

This initiative was launched by the Indian Embassy to bolster collaboration and networking between the startups of both nations.

Throughout the program, nine Nepali startups obtained incubation and investment proposals from the IIT Madras Incubation Cell and IIT Madras Pravartak, organized in partnership with the IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation based in Chennai, as per information from the Embassy.

On Wednesday, participants shared their experiences at an event titled 'Nepal-India Startup Sambad', organized by the Nepal-India Chambers of Commerce and Industry (NICCI).

They emphasized opportunities such as access to state-of-the-art laboratories, engagements with investors, product refinement assistance, and exposure to global best practices.

NICCI stated, 'Nine startups obtaining exclusive investment and incubation offers from leading Indian incubation platforms signifies the growing potential of Nepal's innovation ecosystem and the significance of regional collaboration.'

NICCI President Sunil K.C. reiterated the Chamber's dedication to placing innovation and entrepreneurship at the forefront of Nepal-India economic interactions.

He highlighted that cross-border startup collaborations are crucial for boosting regional competitiveness and fostering youth-driven economic development.

Umesh Kumar Gupta, Executive Director of the Industrial Enterprise Development Institute Nepal, underscored the necessity of institutional support, policy alignment, and capacity-building efforts to transform startups into globally competitive entities.

The Industrial Enterprise Development Institute Nepal serves as the governmental body assisting Nepali entrepreneurs in expanding their businesses.

During the inaugural IN-SPAN program, Nepali participants attended lectures and workshops conducted by distinguished faculty members from IIT Madras and seasoned startup professionals.

They also interacted with senior officials from Indian startups, acquiring real-world insights and actionable feedback.

Participants engaged in skill development training in essential technologies such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and solar photovoltaics, further refining their capabilities through internships with relevant startups in India, according to the Indian Embassy.