Koshi government begins seed funding distribution process for startups

By Shashidhar Parajuli

Biratnagar, Apr. 13: The Koshi Province Government has initiated the process of providing seed funding to encourage young people and new entrepreneurs with innovative ideas. 

The Ministry of Industry, Agriculture and Cooperatives issued a public notice on Sunday, inviting project proposals from individuals interested in starting new ventures.

In accordance with the Startup Enterprise Seed Capital Mobilisation Procedure, 2025/26, the ministry has urged eligible and interested entrepreneurs to submit their applications within 21 days from the date of publication of the notice. 

Entrepreneurs with innovative knowledge, ideas, skills and capabilities may submit their proposals either at the ministry in Biratnagar or at the Cottage and Small Industry Offices in their respective districts.

As per the approved procedure, priority will be given to startups aiming to undertake new and creative initiatives, particularly in the sectors of agriculture, tourism, information technology and manufacturing. 

Only those enterprises that meet the criteria set out in Clause 4 of the procedure and fall within the sectors listed in Schedule 1 will be considered eligible.

To ensure transparency in the selection process, the ministry has arranged for proposals to be evaluated by a panel of experts. 

Applicants are required to submit a detailed business plan, cost estimates and expected outcomes along with their application.

How much support is available?

According to the ministry, each selected startup will receive seed funding of up to Rs. 500,000, depending on the nature and requirements of the project. 

The amount will be disbursed in instalments and its proper utilisation will be regularly monitored as outlined in the procedure.

The provincial government has introduced this programme to attract youths returning from foreign employment, as well as those wishing to pursue opportunities within the country, towards entrepreneurship.