Looking to boost your startup but need more funding? Great news!
The Government of Nepal is continuing the Startup Enterprise Loan Program for the fiscal year 2082/83 (2025/26).
This program gives low-interest loans to new and creative entrepreneurs across the country.
You can get up to NPR 20 lakh at only 3% interest per year.
The goal is to help new businesses expand and succeed without heavy financial pressure.
The program is managed by the Industrial Enterprise Development Foundation (IEDF) under the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies.
Let’s break down the key points:
Overview
- Loan Amount: From NPR 5 lakh to NPR 20 lakh
- Interest Rate: 3% per year (fixed)
- Loan Period: Up to 5 years
- You start repaying within one year after getting your first payment.
- Collateral: Not usually required — your project can be used as security.
- Service Fee: Up to 0.15% of the loan amount, charged by the bank.
- Government Budget: NPR 73 crore (730 million) has been set aside to support hundreds of startup businesses this year.
- Implementing Agency: Industrial Enterprise Development Foundation (IEDF)
- Application Deadline: November 27, 2025
Who Can Apply?
To qualify, your startup must:
- Be registered as a private firm, partnership, company, or cooperative.
- Use new or creative ideas or technology in your product or service.
- Be less than 10 years old.
- Have an annual turnover below NPR 15 crore.
- Not be formed by merging or splitting another business.
- Submit a complete project proposal with required documents.
Not Eligible
The following businesses cannot apply:
- Those that only import and resell goods or services.
- Blacklisted companies.
- Holding or investment companies.
- Businesses registered after the official notice date.
Eligible Sectors
Startups in the following sectors are eligible for funding:
Agriculture, Forest, and Production-Based Sector
- Agriculture, irrigation, livestock/poultry
- Production-based enterprises
- Forest-based enterprises (herbs, forest products)
- Mining and mineral R&D
- Food technology and nutrition
Information Technology and Digital Sector
- IT, communication, and science
- Household or daily life technology
- Waste management
- Improvement in public service delivery
Infrastructure and Transportation
- Transportation and logistics
- Infrastructure construction
- Electric vehicles and automobiles
- Goods and service distribution systems
Social Service and Tourism
- Education and teaching
- Health services
- Tourism, entertainment, and hospitality
Traditional and Local Resources
- Traditional and rural technology
- Revival of traditional occupations
- Enterprises based on local resources
The aim is to support and encourage innovative businesses in Nepal.
Loan Service Fee and Repayment
A 0.15% loan service fee is charged by the lending bank during loan disbursement.
Repayment terms vary based on the loan amount:
| Loan Amount | Number of Installments |
|---|---|
| Up to 5 lakh | One |
| Up to 20 lakh | Two |
How to Apply for a Startup Loan in Nepal?
You have two options to apply for a startup loan in Nepal:
- Online Submission: Visit the official IEDI website: https://iedi.gov.np.
- Visit in Person: Visit the Industrial Enterprise Development Institute (IEDI) office, Tripureshwor, Kathmandu.
Required Documents
- Company or Industry Registration Certificate
- PAN/VAT Certificate
- Latest Tax Clearance Certificate
- Audit report
- Citizenship copies of the founders
- Project Proposal (in the official format)
- Proof showing use of innovation or technology
Take Action Now!
Don’t miss this great chance to grow your startup with a 3% low-interest loan.
Apply today and take your business to the next level with support from the Startup Enterprise Loan Program.
Startup Enterprise Loan Program Operating Procedures, 2082
Startup Enterprise Loan Program Operating Procedures, 2082 Download
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