CIM holds graduation ceremony for first batch of ‘Startup and Innovation Programme’

KATHMANDU: Chamber of Industries, Morang (CIM) organised a graduation ceremony for the first batch of 'Startup and Innovation Programme'. The CIM also announced the beginning of the second batch of the programme. The CIM has been conducting the programme since last year with the objective of facilitating and coordinating the access to technical and business development services, finance and other investments necessary to transform youths with new business ideas and concepts into entrepreneurship. The first phase of the programme was implemented as a model. It was planned to provide 20 start-up businesses with business plan formulation, guidance and consultation, research and laboratory testing facilitation, networking and interaction, business registration, legal and administrative consultation, coordination with investors and banks and financial institutions (BFIs) for access to financing. The programme was started with the goal of providing assistance in facilitation, mentorship, coaching and consulting services, network expansion as well as organising boot camps including business canvas model, business health check-ups, and Haat-Bazaar (weekly open fair). Thematic programmes were organised and counselling services were provided. Of the 19 startups participating in the first batch, seven of them participated in the graduation ceremony. In order to conduct the upcoming programme more effectively, there will be 20 start-up businesses, and the programme has been continued by inviting proposals for the second batch. Meanwhile, for the implementation of the programme, the CIM has collaborated with Province 1 Ministry of Industry, Labour and Employment, Biratnagar Metropolitan City, Swiss Contact, Asaman Nepal, Purvanchal University, Anterprerna, Nabil Bank, Nepalese Young Entrepreneurs' Forum (NYEF) among various organisations. The programme will be carried on in cooperation with these organisations. In the second phase of the programme to be conducted for a year, the enterprises established in Province 1 and which are in operation for no more than two years will be eligible to participate. This programme has given priority to the ideas of new business concepts, upgradation and follow-up. Those who have the potential in the current industry business, women entrepreneurs, and youths who have returned from foreign employment have been priorities for the programme. Meanwhile, the CIM has opened online application on the website www.cim.org.np for those interested to take part in the startup and innovation programme. The online application will be accepted till August 26. READ ALSO:

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