The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu has officially opened applications for IN-SPAN, an exciting new cross-border startup platform designed to strengthen ties between Nepal and India’s dynamic entrepreneurial communities. Nepali entrepreneurs with innovative ideas are invited to apply for an eight-week, fully funded training program at the prestigious IIT Madras.

IN-SPAN offers comprehensive training and innovation support through IIT Madras Pravartak, a leading incubator that has successfully nurtured 46 startups, with 14 already commercializing their technologies. Participants will gain hands-on experience, expert mentorship, and internship opportunities to transform their concepts into viable businesses.

This initiative builds upon previous successful collaborations between India and Nepal, including the India-Nepal Startup Connect events held in January 2023 and February 2025. The program aims to provide Nepali startups with unparalleled access to India’s top innovation ecosystem.

Selection for the program will be highly competitive, based on application reviews and interviews to ensure only the most promising and motivated entrepreneurs join the cohort. Applications are being accepted from November 1 to November 15, 2024, through the official online portal.

The launch of IN-SPAN reflects the deepening bilateral relationship between India and Nepal, which has seen remarkable progress across multiple sectors. Recent achievements include significant infrastructure developments such as new Integrated Check Posts, cross-border railway connections, petroleum pipelines, and freight train services linking the two nations.

In the energy sector, both countries have finalized a Long-Term Power Trade Agreement and are collaborating on major hydropower projects, including the 480 MW Phukot Karnali and 669 MW Lower Arun developments. Digital connectivity has also advanced, with Nepal now accepting UPI payments through FonePay QR interoperability, while cross-border digital payment systems between NPCI and Nepal Clearing House Limited are being implemented.