The US Embassy in Nepal on Saturday launched Creator’s Mela 2026: Vision to Venture from Chitwan, signalling a renewed push to strengthen Nepal’s creative economy by helping digital creators build sustainable, professional businesses.

Held at Hotel Siraichuli, the opening programme drew more than 800 young and emerging digital creators, marking the first time the flagship platform has been organised in Chitwan. The event featured parallel sessions across two halls, including panel discussions, spotlight conversations, hands-on workshops, live performances and the Pitch to Success platform, the US Embassy said in a press release on Saturday.

Speakers and performers included Priyanka Karki, Ayushman Joshi, Cabinet Shrestha, Anand Bagaria and Sandhya KC, alongside creators such as 2B Gamer, Eva Giri, Shrishes Manandhar, Ekata Tandukar, Nepal 8th Wonder and The K-OS. The programme concluded with a live music performance by Yabesh Thapa.

The organisers said that Creator’s Mela 2026 will continue in Nepalgunj on January 24 before concluding with a two-day finale in Kathmandu on January 30 and 31. 

"The Kathmandu leg will feature Pitch to Success, where selected creators will pitch their business ventures to a panel of leading corporate executives for real-time feedback and mentorship," the release said.

The Vision to Venture theme seeks to bridge digital storytelling and enterprise by integrating US expertise in technology, platform monetisation and digital business development, providing creators with a roadmap to scale their influence into long-term careers and viable businesses, the US Embassy said.

“Creator’s Mela 2026 reflects the United States’ commitment to strengthening Nepal’s creative economy,” said Mike Harker, public affairs chief at the US Embassy Nepal. “By enhancing knowledge, skills, and networks nationwide, we are supporting entrepreneurship and job creation. We are positioning Nepali creators not just for local influence, but for success with American business partners and in global markets, fostering deeper economic ties and shared prosperity.”