1. Why should I participate in the NTIC Startup & Incubation Program?

  • To get a platform to convert research/prototypes into products and services, which adds value in the rural areas of Nepal
  • To implement innovative idea into a sustainable business
  • Learn entrepreneurial and business skills
  • For investment opportunities

  1. Who can enter the programme?

NTIC Business Idea Contest Open to all Nepali Entrepreneurs/Start-ups working towards development of innovative products/ processes/ services. This programme is committed to equal opportunities to all, irrespective of gender, religion, culture, social status, marital status, sexuality, disability, age et cetera. Entrepreneurs/Start-ups that show a significant impact in rural development as a core part of their venture are encouraged to apply, especially entrepreneurs/start-ups who are working in the following industries:

  • Agriculture and Rural Development
  • Alternative and Renewable Energy
  • Health Related Livelihood

  1. How do I submit the idea?

You can submit the idea online through our website. Click here to go to the form webpage. You can also download the form, fill in your details, take a photograph and send it to ntic@ku.edu.np.

  1. What types of ideas do I need to submit?

Innovative ideas working in the following sectors are encouraged to apply:

  •  Agriculture and Rural Development
  •  Alternative and Renewable Energy
  •  Health Related Livelihood

  1. How many ideas will be shortlisted for finals?

Ten ideas will be shortlisted for the finals.

  1. What is the selection process?

The selection comprises of two stages:

  • First stage: Out of the total submitted ideas 10 will be shortlisted for a round pitching.

  • Second stage: 5 ideas will move forward for incubation and investment.

  1. Will NTIC provide guidance and support to shortlisted ideas who will have to relocate to Kathmandu temporarily for the incubation and mentorship programme?

No

  1. When does the incubation start?

Selected candidates will be informed of the Incubation’s start.

  1. Will NTIC take equity in my business if I receive investment?

Yes

  1. Will the NTIC staff and judges sign a non-disclosure agreement?

Yes

  1. I am not from Kathmandu. Can I still enter the competition?

Yes

  1. Do I need to pay any amount to participate?

No

  1. Who should I contact if I have a technical issue with my application?

You can send an email at ntic@ku.edu.np or call at 9802310110

  1. Will I be able to edit the application form once I submit it?

No

  1. Does my start-up need to be relocated to Kathmandu if I am shortlisted?

No

  1. Who are the judges and mentors?

Our judges and mentors/coaches are experts from the private and public, academia, and development sectors.

  1. Is there special consideration for applicants from the Kathmandu area?

No

  1. Is there any limit to the budget for the ideas?

No

  1. What are the criteria on which the ideas will be evaluated?

The ideas will be evaluated in the following criterias:

  • Impact of the the business in in rural development
  • Team members’ expertise in the business idea
  • Market opportunity of the idea
  • Financial viability of the idea
  • Creativity and scalability of the idea

  1. Should the idea be submitted individually or in a group?

The idea can either be submitted in a group or can be submitted individually.

  1. What is the limit to the number of people in the group?

You can have as many people in the group.All the members of the group will be able to participate in the business pitching and incubation programme.

  1. Do I have to be personally involved in the program?

Yes. At least one member of the team will have to participate and represent in the full time.

  1. How will the confidentiality of the submitted idea be ensured?

A Non-disclosure agreement will be signed between the candidate and NTIC.

  1. Would there be any chance that our idea will be used for other purposes without our knowledge whether they are selected or not?

No

  1. What is the minimum education qualification required to be eligible for this programme?

None

  1. I am a student. What if my idea is selected but I do not have time to participate later in the execution phase?

You will need to be completely involved in the programme. No exception.

  1. Are we allowed to submit multiple ideas?

Yes

  1. Is it necessary to be a Nepali Citizen in order to be eligible for the programme?

Yes, you must be a Nepali citizen or Non-resident Nepali.

  1. Will I get paid during the programme implementation phase?

No