KATHMANDU, Nov 1: The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu has announced the launch of IN-SPAN, a cross-border startup platform aimed at linking the entrepreneurial ecosystems of India and Nepal. The initiative will provide Nepali innovators with access to world-class mentorship and training opportunities at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras.
Applications for IN-SPAN opened on Friday, inviting Nepali entrepreneurs with transformative ideas to apply for an eight-week, fully funded training and innovation programme at IIT Madras.
“IN-SPAN features an 8-week, fully funded training and innovation programme at IIT Madras, delivered in collaboration with IIT Madras Pravartak, a leading incubator that has supported 46 startups, 14 of which have successfully commercialised their technologies,” the Indian Embassy said in a statement.
Participants will receive hands-on learning, expert mentorship, and internship opportunities, enabling them to take their ideas “from concept to creation.”
The Embassy noted that the new initiative builds on earlier successes such as the 1st India-Nepal Startup Connect (January 2023) and the 2nd Startup Connect: Curtain Raiser for Startup Mahakumbh (February 2025).
Selection for the programme will be competitive, based on applications and interviews, ensuring participation from the most promising startups. Applications are open from November 1 to 15, and entrepreneurs can apply online at https://shorturl.at/Au8zh.
The launch of IN-SPAN aligns with the recent momentum in India-Nepal bilateral cooperation, particularly in connectivity, digital linkages, and energy trade.
The Indian Embassy highlighted several recent achievements, including:
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Advancements in Integrated Check Posts (ICPs) at Nepalgunj, Bhairahawa, and Dodhara-Chandni.
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The launch of a freight train service linking India and Nepal.
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Progress on cross-border railway projects such as Kurtha-Bijalpura and Raxaul-Kathmandu.
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Expansion of the Motihari-Amlekhgunj petroleum pipeline and new projects connecting Siliguri-Jhapa and Amlekhgunj-Chitwan.
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A long-term power trade agreement and new hydropower projects being developed by Indian firms, including the 480 MW Phukot Karnali and 669 MW Lower Arun.
On the digital front, Nepal began accepting India’s UPI payments in March 2024 through interoperability with FonePay QR, while an MoU between NPCI and NCHL is being implemented to enable seamless cross-border digital transactions.
The Embassy said IN-SPAN represents a natural extension of this expanding partnership, “empowering young innovators to shape the future of India-Nepal cooperation through technology and entrepreneurship.”