Accelerating Digital Innovation in Agri-Food Systems

Accelerating Digital Innovation in Agri-Food Systems

We are thrilled to announce the launch of the Digital Entrepreneurship Competition 2025 — a national call for innovators, startups, and entrepreneurs working at the intersection of agriculture, food systems, and digital technology.

This competition aims to recognize and support digital solutions that are driving transformation across Nepal’s agri-food value chains — from production and processing to marketing and access to finance.

Why This Competition?

Digital innovation is reshaping how farmers produce, connect, and thrive. From mobile platforms for climate-smart farming to e-commerce models linking smallholders to markets, Nepal’s entrepreneurs are pioneering inclusive, tech-driven solutions. iDE Nepal seeks to celebrate and elevate these innovators who are advancing sustainable, equitable, and resilient food systems.

Focus Areas

We invite innovations that leverage digital technology to create impact in one or more of the following areas:

• Agri-Tech: Smart farming, precision agriculture, data-driven advisory, or digital input systems.
• Market Access: E-commerce platforms, digital cooperatives, or market linkage tools for farmers and MSMEs.
• Financial Inclusion: Digital financing, agri-insurance, or fintech solutions supporting smallholder enterprises.
• Climate Resilience: Technology supporting adaptation, sustainable resource use, or carbon-smart agriculture.
• Food Systems Innovation: Digital solutions improving nutrition, traceability, food processing, or value addition.

Who Can Apply

• Early-stage startups, youth entrepreneurs, agri-tech innovators, or digital service providers.
• Individuals or teams working on scalable and sustainable digital solutions within Nepal’s agri-food system.
• Both registered enterprises and innovative pilot initiatives are welcome.

Why should you apply?

Selected innovators will benefit from technical guidance, one-on-one mentoring, and an exclusive opportunity to pitch their solution to major sector stakeholders. This award offers visibility, credibility, and the platform you need to scale your digital innovation and make a meaningful impact in Nepal’s agri-food sector.

Awards & Recognition

• Winner:
  • Cash Award: NPR 1,50,000 to support the idea and bring it to action.
  • Visibility: Opportunity to pitch at the Digital Entrepreneurship Event in front of donors, investors, and ecosystem leaders.
  • Mentorship: Access to technical and business development support through iDE’s network.
  • Test/Pilot: opportunity to test/pilot idea in iDE’s ongoing project.
• 1st Runner-up:
  • Cash Award: NPR 1,00,000 to help refine and operationalize the innovation.
  • Visibility & Mentorship: Recognition at the event and access to iDE’s technical and business mentorship network.
• 2nd Runner-up:
  • Cash Award: NPR 75,000 to strengthen and advance the proposed idea.
  • Visibility & Mentorship: Acknowledgment during the event and access to mentorship through iDE’s network..

Deadline: 5th December, 2025

Apply via this link