Government Backs Innovation as Sunway Startup Fest 2025 Closes | Nepal Tech Ecosystem
14th November 2025, Kathmandu
The curtains have closed on the highly successful Sunway Startup & Idea Fest 2025, marking a vibrant conclusion to two days of intense innovation, bold ideas, and crucial networking.
Government Backs Innovation Sunway Startup Fest
The festival, a flagship pre-event to the prestigious ICT Awards 2025, served as a powerful showcase for the depth and diversity of the Nepalese tech ecosystem, spanning cutting-edge fields like AI, drone technology, and STEAM initiatives.
The Closing Ceremony was graced by Mr. Krishna Bahadur Raut, Secretary of the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Supplies, whose visit underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to nurturing innovation and youth talent in Nepal.
Government Pledge: Nurturing Innovation & Public-Private Support
Chief Guest Secretary Krishna Bahadur Raut actively engaged with emerging founders, thoroughly exploring the exhibits and offering a strong message of support for the private sector.
His presence highlighted a pivotal moment for the ecosystem: the government’s direct encouragement for public–private support to accelerate Nepal’s digital transformation.
Secretary Raut’s interaction with the next generation of innovators signals a clear policy direction focused on creating a conducive environment for startups to thrive, paving the way for future investment and regulatory streamlining.
Industry Leaders Champion Local Startups
The enthusiasm extended beyond the government. CAN Federation Senior Vice President (Chiranjibi Adhikari, an acclaimed ICT Activist and cybersecurity expert) was also spotted interacting with the startup stalls.
His participation, along with other industry leaders, offered direct encouragement to founders and reinforced the crucial message of pursuing and building successful businesses in Nepal.
This high-profile endorsement from both government and key industry bodies is a tremendous boost, validating the hard work and creative passion displayed by the startups.
A Festival of Ideas: From Pitching to Possibility
Over the past two days, the Fest was a melting pot of innovation and entrepreneurship. Attendees witnessed:
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Powerful pitches from the semi-finalists of the ICT Award 2025.
Hands-on demos of technology spanning AI, Robotics, Drones, and STEAM education.
Deep conversations that focused on turning everyday problems into viable business possibilities.
An unprecedented show of support from every single visitor, whose enthusiasm fueled every booth and session.
The festival successfully showcased that the Nepali innovation landscape is not just growing, but is becoming increasingly sophisticated and diverse.
Gratitude Fuels Future Momentum
The organizers extend their heartfelt gratitude:
To Sponsors: For their belief in the startups, the STEAM initiatives, and the future of Nepali tech, making all activations and opportunities possible.
To Semifinalists, Exhibitors, and Partners: Their creativity, persistence, and passion formed the very soul of the Fest.
To Mentors, Judges, Volunteers, and the Organizing Team: Whose tireless, behind-the-scenes work ensured an incredible and smoothly run event.
While the lights dim on this edition, the commitments to build, mentor, and invest remain bright. The connections made and the lessons learned are set to fuel the next wave of breakthroughs, solidifying the Fest’s role as a catalyst for growth in Nepal’s startup ecosystem.
Stay connected for future announcements, highlights, photos, and feedback forms!
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