The Nepal-India Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NICCI) hosted the Nepal-India Startup Sambad at The Malla Hotel on Tuesday, bringing together policymakers, innovation leaders, media representatives and startup founders to mark a milestone in cross-border entrepreneurial collaboration.

The event celebrated the successful completion of the inaugural cohort of the India-Nepal Startup Partnership Network (IN-SPAN), a flagship initiative facilitated by IITM Pravartak Technologies Foundation of IIT Madras with support from India’s Ministry of External Affairs. Under the programme, 24 Nepali startups undertook an intensive eight-week residency within the IIT Madras innovation ecosystem, gaining access to mentorship, technological support and market exposure.

Nine startups secured exclusive investment and incubation offers from leading Indian incubation platforms, reflecting the growing potential of Nepal’s innovation ecosystem and the benefits of regional cooperation.

In his welcome address, NICCI President Sunil KC reaffirmed the chamber’s commitment to placing innovation and entrepreneurship at the centre of Nepal-India economic engagement, stressing the role of cross-border startup partnerships in boosting regional competitiveness and youth-led growth.

Vice President Kunal Kayal said the next phase of Nepal-India economic relations must be driven by the private sector and powered by innovation. He noted that NICCI is spearheading the establishment of a Startup Innovation Centre to connect ecosystem stakeholders.

Delivering guest remarks, IEDI Nepal Executive Director Er Umesh Kumar Gupta highlighted the need for institutional support, policy alignment and capacity-building to nurture startups into globally competitive enterprises.

A key highlight of the Sambad was the Cohort Reflections Session, where founders shared experiences from the IIT Madras residency, including access to advanced laboratories, investor engagement, product refinement support and exposure to global best practices.