RIN Program Cohort 2 Wraps Up: Empowering 20 Returnee Entrepreneurs to Thrive in Nepal

The second cohort of the Returnee Innovators Nepal (RIN) Program has successfully concluded, marking a milestone in supporting returnee migrants to launch and scale impactful businesses back home. Launched under the K-HaMi Project with support from KOICA, in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security (MoLESS), and executed by The Bridge International (TBI) in partnership with Byapar Briddhi Bikalpa (Briddhi), this initiative continues to bridge skills gained abroad with entrepreneurial opportunities in Nepal. This cohort brought together 20 dynamic entrepreneurs, including 10 participants in the Start Track (businesses in ideation and early startup stages) and 10 participants in the Growth Track (businesses operating for more than three years).
 

From September to November 2025, participants underwent a structured three-month incubation phase designed to strengthen their entrepreneurial journey. Throughout this period, returnee entrepreneurs received comprehensive support including tailored one-on-one mentorship, practical business development workshops, and meaningful networking opportunities. The incubation phase focused on helping participants refine their business models, strengthen operational systems, and prepare for sustainable growth within Nepal’s evolving market landscape.

The excitement peaked with a virtual pitching competition at the end of the incubation stage. Five standout entrepreneurs from each track advanced to the grand finale: the Returnee Innovators Showcase, held on December 11, 2025, at the ADBL Central Training Institute. The Showcase served as an inspiring platform where the 10 finalists presented their businesses to a distinguished jury panel and a wider audience. Alongside live pitching sessions, the event featured a vibrant business exhibition where finalists displayed their products and innovations — reflecting their resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit.
 

The program was honored by the presence of esteemed chief guests and dignitaries, including:

• Mooheon Kong, Country Director of KOICA
• Tae Young Park, Ambassador of South Korea to Nepal
• Ms. Sujin Yeo, Deputy Director of KOICA
• Mr. Janak Raj Sharma, Under-Secretary of MoLESS
• Mr. Sudip Kumar Dahal, Deputy General Manager of ADBL
• Mr. Suraj Vaidya, Chairperson of Briddhi

The event featured interactive audience engagement, thoughtful jury deliberations, and the announcement of the Top 3 winners from each track, who were awarded cash prizes in recognition of their outstanding performance and business potential. With the successful completion of its second cohort, the RIN Program reaffirms its commitment to strengthening Nepal’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by supporting returnee innovators in building sustainable and growth-oriented businesses.