This exclusive leadership session will introduce Cybersecurity Maturity Level 2 through a Cybersecurity Maturity Framework for Business Leadership, emphasizing the importance of positioning cybersecurity as a board-level responsibility while providing a practical Level 2 implementation guide, along with actionable insights and initial steps organizations can take to strengthen their cybersecurity posture.

We are excited to announce the upcoming Nepal Tech Roadshow USA | May 2026, a strategic initiative by NAS-IT designed to position Nepal’s technology sector on the global stage. The roadshow aims to foster meaningful collaboration, attract investment, and unlock cross-border business opportunities by connecting Nepali tech companies with U.S. industry leaders, investors, decision-makers, and the Nepali diaspora. Building on the success of our international editions, the USA Roadshow marks another important step in promoting Nepal as a credible, competitive, and innovation-driven technology destination. Stay tuned as we move closer to shaping new global partnerships and opportunities for Nepal’s tech ecosystem.

This exclusive leadership session will introduce a Cybersecurity Maturity Framework for Business Leadership, highlighting the importance of positioning cybersecurity as a board-level responsibility while providing practical insights and initial steps organizations can take to strengthen their cybersecurity posture.  

NAS-IT proudly renewed its Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Tech Journos Forum (TJF) in a formal ceremony, reaffirming our continued partnership and shared vision. This renewed collaboration strengthens the bond between the tech industry and media, ensuring sustained support for innovation, responsible tech journalism, and the promotion of Nepal’s growing digital ecosystem. Together, NAS-IT and TJF remain committed to amplifying Nepal’s position as an emerging global tech hub.

NAS-IT participated in an interaction program organized by Society of Economic Journalists- Nepal (SEJON) at Anamnagar on “The State, Opportunities, and Challenges of the Nepali IT Industry.” Our President Mr. Gaurav Pandey, General Secretary Ms. Alisha Shrestha, and Treasurer Mr. Abhaya Poudel shared NAS-IT’s vision and industry priorities, highlighting NAS-IT’s formation, the need for key IT policy reforms (tax incentives, FDI clarity, DTAA, and priority to Nepali firms in procurement), along with AI opportunities, challenges, and the importance of digital transformation. Committed to building a competitive and future-ready Nepali IT ecosystem.

On February 2, NAS-IT, in collaboration with Nepal in Business (NiB) – Growth Advisors, held an Introductory Session for the Capacity Development Program at Hotel Barahi, Kantipath. The program featured introductory remarks from NAS-IT, NiB, and Aadyanta Advisory, followed by presentations from five selected NAS-IT member companies, who introduced their organizations, products/services, and shared their expectations from the program. The session aimed to set the foundation for investment readiness, encourage meaningful investor engagement, and facilitate connections between participating companies and suitable mentors through Aadyanta Advisory, paving the way for structured collaboration ahead.

NAS-IT hosted an in-person discussion at Logpoint Office, The Plaza, Lalitpur, focusing on the practical aspects of Nepal Rastra Bank’s outbound investment guidelines and what they mean for Nepal’s growing tech sector. The session featured a detailed presentation by Mr. Ghanashyam Oli, who walked participants through key implementation procedures, compliance requirements, and important considerations for companies planning international expansion. The discussion was followed by an engaging exchange of questions, experiences, and insights among members. We thank all our members for their active participation and valuable contributions to the session.

On 9th-10th January, The NAS-IT Members’ Meet and Retreat was held at Chandragiri Hills Resort, bringing together NAS-IT member companies for an engaging and meaningful exchange beyond the workplace. The program provided a valuable platform for open discussions on collaboration, leadership, and collective alignment toward NAS-IT’s shared vision, fostering stronger connections within the tech community. We sincerely thank all members who participated and contributed their time, insights, and energy in making the gathering both impactful and memorable. A special thanks to our Sustainability Partners, Orchid International College and Global IME Bank Limited, and our Value Partners, Tigg – Nepal’s #1 Cloud Accounting Platform, DishHome, and Programiz, for their continued support and active participation. Your contributions played a key role in making the retreat impactful and successful. We also extend our sincere appreciation to all NAS-IT members who contributed their time, insights, and energy in making the gathering both meaningful and memorable.

It was a pleasure for the NAS-IT Board Members to meet with Her Excellency Ms. Ruwanthi Delpitiya, Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Nepal. The discussion focused on fostering knowledge exchange between the technology sectors of both countries and exploring avenues for deeper, long-term collaboration. With promising opportunities anticipated for NAS-IT member companies, the meeting proved to be constructive and highly fruitful, marking a meaningful step toward building mutually beneficial partnerships and further strengthening bilateral ties

A founder may live and breathe the story behind the brand, but when that clarity does not travel to the sales floor, customers end up confused and performance suffers. The real leadership challenge, then, is translating vision into simple, consistent messages that empower the sales team to communicate with confidence and precision. With this objective in mind, NAS-IT successfully conducted a Leadership Lab session titled “Stop Confusing Your Customers” on 23 December at Reduct Nepal, facilitated by NAS-IT Member Punit Jajodia. The session focused on leadership clarity and customer-centric communication, offering practical insights and engaging discussions on how clear articulation of a brand’s value strengthens both leadership effectiveness and sales outcomes. We extend our sincere appreciation to the facilitator and all participants for their active engagement and thoughtful contributions. NAS-IT looks forward to continuing to host such meaningful learning experiences in the future.

NAS-IT successfully organized a hiking trip on Saturday, December 20, 2025, in the beautiful Kirtipur area. The hike from With Locals Nepal to Bosan Danda and back offered a refreshing escape from our daily routines and a chance to enjoy nature together. Thank you to everyone who joined and made the hike memorable. We look forward to organizing more such activities that promote connection, well-being, and community in the days ahead.

Nepal Celebrates Historic Success at APICTA Awards 2025 Kaohsiung, Taiwan | December 5–8, 2025 Nepal marked a historic achievement at the Asia Pacific ICT Alliance (APICTA) Awards 2025, with Kataho – Digital Address System winning Second Runner-Up in both Community Services and R&D Project of the Year categories. This is a landmark recognition for Nepal’s growing innovation and technological capability in the Asia-Pacific region. The Nepali delegation, led by NAS-IT, included three innovative companies—Kataho, Crimson Tech, and Alpas Technology—along with esteemed judges Richan Shrestha, Deepen Chapagain, and Narayan Koirala, and NAS-IT’s Economy Coordinator Soniya Shrestha. Their participation highlighted Nepal’s commitment to excellence and collaboration on the international ICT stage. NAS-IT congratulates all companies, judges, and delegates for their outstanding representation and dedication.

NAS-IT Expo 2025 was held on November 7–8, 2025, at Heritage Garden, Lalitpur. Organized by the Nepal Association for Software and IT Services Companies (NAS-IT) under the theme “Where Tech Meets Business,” the Expo brought together Nepal’s technology companies, startups, and industry stakeholders to showcase homegrown innovations and strengthen business and industry connections.

📅 Date: September 17–21, 2025
📍 Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka

NAS-IT is pleased to share an invitation from the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Kathmandu for NAS-IT members to participate in Disrupt Asia 2025, organized by ICTA Sri Lanka. Recognized as Sri Lanka’s leading technology and innovation conference, the event will gather over 1,500 high-level participants, including startup founders, investors, venture capitalists, policymakers, and industry leaders from across South Asia.

Disrupt Asia 2025 aims to establish Sri Lanka as the region’s hub for cross-border collaboration in technology and innovation. The conference will focus on facilitating venture funding for startups and scaleups, attracting venture studios and accelerators, showcasing Sri Lanka’s vibrant tech ecosystem, and highlighting specialized tracks within the digital economy.

This conference offers an excellent opportunity for Nepalese tech entrepreneurs to explore partnerships, investment prospects, and emerging trends in the South Asian digital economy.

The Nepalese Tech-Diaspora Meetup – Melbourne 2025, powered by Ncell Business, was successfully held on 10th September 2025 at Mustang Palace Nepalese Restaurant, 426 Sydney Road, Coburg, Melbourne from 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM.

The event brought together Nepali tech professionals, entrepreneurs, and diaspora leaders to explore opportunities for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and partnerships between Nepal and Australia. It also served as a valuable platform to strengthen ties with the diaspora community and highlight the growing potential of Nepal’s IT sector.

We extend our sincere gratitude to our sponsor Ncell Business and our sustainability partners Orchid International College and Global IME Bank for their invaluable support in making this initiative possible.

The Nepal IT Roadshow Australia 2025, an official international outreach initiative by NAS-IT, was successfully held on September 5, 2025, at Rydges World Square, Sydney. This landmark event highlighted Nepal’s rapidly growing technology and outsourcing sector, promoting trade, investment, and long-term cross-border collaboration.

The roadshow brought together Nepali tech entrepreneurs, Australian businesses and investors, government representatives, and the Nepali-Australian diaspora, creating a vibrant platform for networking, innovation, and strategic partnerships.

By showcasing Nepal’s skilled workforce, competitive digital solutions, and supportive investment environment, the event attracted strong interest from Australian stakeholders in Nepal’s thriving tech ecosystem. It also opened new opportunities for Australian companies to explore emerging markets, access high-quality tech talent, and expand their operations through collaboration with Nepal.

We extend our sincere gratitude to our sponsor Ncell Business and our sustainability partners, Orchid International College and Global IME Bank, whose invaluable support made this initiative possible.

📅 Date: September 3–5, 2025
📍 Venue: COEX, Seoul, South Korea

NAS-IT is pleased to announce its official invitation to participate in the Industry AI Expo 2025, organized by the Korea Industry Intelligentization Association (KOIIA). The event will be held from September 3 to 5, 2025, at COEX in Seoul, and is one of Asia’s leading platforms for industrial AI, smart manufacturing, and digital innovation.

This international expo brings together global leaders and innovators in the fields of industrial AI and digital transformation. It offers NAS-IT member companies valuable opportunities to showcase their products and services through dedicated booths, engage in B2B meetings and networking sessions with Korean and international partners, and participate in speaker sessions or panel discussions to share insights and highlight Nepal’s growing capabilities in the tech sector.

We invite interested member companies to express their interest in participating by filling out the form below:
🔗 Participation Form

Join us in representing Nepal’s thriving digital ecosystem on a global stage.

NAS-IT successfully held its 3rd Annual General Meeting on August 29 at The Soaltee Kathmandu, bringing together leaders from Nepal’s IT sector to reflect on the year’s achievements and set future priorities. The gathering also welcomed new members to the NAS-IT community and highlighted key initiatives in policy advocacy, international engagement, and talent development. The event marked the beginning of a new term under the leadership of Mr. Gaurav Raj Pandey as President, with the Executive Committee 2025–2026 committed to driving Nepal’s IT industry forward with greater collaboration and innovation.

Date: Sunday, 13th July 2025
Time: 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Venue: Logpoint Office, The Plaza, Lalitpur

NAS-IT is organizing a discussion meeting on the recent NRB guideline concerning outbound investments and its impact on Nepal’s tech industry. The session will focus on practical compliance, growth opportunities, and important considerations for companies exploring expansion or investment abroad under the new regulatory framework.

We encourage NAS-IT members interested in this subject to join in person, share their perspectives, and engage in meaningful dialogue on how these changes may affect business strategies.

On July 11, 2025, NAS-IT signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Korea Association for ICT Promotion (KAIT), marking the beginning of a strategic partnership between the Nepalese and Korean ICT sectors. This collaboration is intended to foster technical and business cooperation, promote the exchange of expertise on emerging technologies, and create platforms for innovation such as events, meetups, and exchange programs. Through this partnership, both organizations aim to facilitate joint participation in international events like the World IT Show, organize industry-specific workshops on areas like AI, cybersecurity, and fintech, and enable business networking and B2B matchmaking between member companies. This MoU opens new avenues for our members to explore global markets and collaborative opportunities.

On 9th July 2025, NAS-IT hosted a virtual session focused on the recent NRB policy reform that enables Nepalese tech companies to invest abroad. We were honored to have Mr. Jay Dahal, Founder & Strategic Advisor at Focus Your Finance, Inc. in California, join us to share his expertise on registering a business entity in the United States and navigating cross-border operations. The discussion provided valuable insights for Nepalese tech entrepreneurs exploring global expansion opportunities and understanding the practical implications of the NRB policy changes. Thank you to all our members who participated and contributed to a highly engaging session!

Mr. Santosh Koirala, President of NAS-IT Nepal, recently attended the ‘Fostering Trade and Investment: Strengthening Nepal-UK Tech Ties’ event held on 4th July 2025 at the Embassy of Nepal in London. During the event, Mr. Koirala spoke as a panelist in the Fireside Chat on ‘Diaspora & Digital Diplomacy – The Power of Global Nepalis,’ alongside Mr. Suresh Manandhar and Ms. Ruby Raut, moderated by Mr. Niranjan Kunwar. He shared insights on Nepal’s growing digital ecosystem fostering collaborations across tech sectors. The full-day program brought together government officials, investors, entrepreneurs, and tech leaders from Nepal and the UK to advance innovation, digital diplomacy, and cross-border investment opportunities.

On June 15, 2025, NAS-IT hosted Future in Tech: Career Compass at the Cedar Gate office in Jhamsikhel. This event aimed to help students explore emerging career opportunities in the technology sector by connecting them directly with experts shaping Nepal’s tech landscape.

The event saw enthusiastic participation from students eager to learn about various tech domains. Industry experts shared their personal career journeys, practical insights, and guidance on building successful careers in technology:

• Mr. Prajwol Gautam, COO, Eminence Ways – Cybersecurity & Leadership

• Mr. Sabin Thapa, Senior Software Engineer, Naamche – Artificial Intelligence & Emerging Roles

• Mr. Sunil Poudel, Lead Software Engineer, Cloudfactory – Software Development & Problem Solving

• Ms. Sweta Karna, VP of Data, Cedar Gate Technologies – Data Science & Analytics

• Mr. Nishchhal Shrestha, CTO, Amnil Technologies – Cloud Computing & DevOps

• Mr. Punit Jajodia, CEO, Programiz – Tech Entrepreneurship & Growth Mindset

Each speaker provided unique perspectives, helping students understand what it takes to succeed in the tech industry, where to start, and how to maintain curiosity and persistence throughout their careers. Topics ranged from essential tools and certifications to mindset and mentorship.

Career Compass served as an inspiring launchpad for students ready to take their next step in technology.

We thank all our speakers, participants, and partners for their support in making this event a meaningful success.

Date: Saturday, May 24, 2025
Location: Lubhu Area, Lalitpur
Route Map: Click here

NAS-IT successfully organized a hiking trip on Saturday, May 24, 2025, in the scenic hills of Lubhu, Lalitpur. The 12-kilometer trail, featuring an elevation gain of approximately 550 meters, offered a refreshing escape into nature and was completed in about three hours.

The hike brought together members and representatives in a relaxed and informal setting, providing a much-needed break from daily routines. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect, reflect, and recharge while enjoying the beauty of Nepal’s landscapes.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and made the day memorable. We look forward to more such moments of connection and well-being in the future.

NAS-IT representatives Pallav Parajulee, Sona Singh and Anjani Phuyal had an engaging discussion with Mr. Won Ki Kim, Global Cooperation Team Leader, and Mr. Cheol-Soon Park, Secretary General of KAIT, exploring innovative ICT strategies and future collaboration opportunities.

NAS-IT representatives met with the Ambassador of Nepal to South Korea, Dr. Shiva Maya Tumbahangphe, at the Embassy of Nepal in Korea today, April 25, 2025, to present Nepal’s dynamic IT sector and discuss avenues for bilateral collaboration, diaspora engagement, and international expansion. The presentation highlighted Nepal’s tech talent, export potential, and growing startup ecosystem, emphasizing the shared opportunities between Nepal and Korea in innovation, outsourcing, and investment. The discussion also focused on the role of the Nepali tech diaspora in Korea as a vital link for global market access. Special thanks to NAS-IT members Anjani Phuyal and Pallav Parajulee for their excellent coordination and support in making this engagement possible.

NAS-IT participated in the World IT Show 2025, held from April 24 to 26 at COEX, Seoul, organized by the Korea Association for ICT Promotion (KAIT). This premier event brought together global leaders in information and communication technology to explore emerging innovations and foster international collaboration.

Representing Nepal’s vibrant IT sector, NAS-IT showcased alongside its esteemed member companies: Genese, Amnil Technologies, and Quickfox Consulting. Our presence at the World IT Show 2025 marks an important step in deepening regional collaboration and showcasing the talent within Nepal’s tech ecosystem. We’re excited to carry this momentum forward and continue creating opportunities for growth, innovation, and global engagement.

NAS-IT member companies: TAI, EventsMo, and Arkbo, participated in Startup Mahakumbh 2025, held from April 3–5 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, India. The event brought together over 3,000 startups and global stakeholders, with a dedicated Nepal Pavilion showcasing 20 Nepali startups across sectors like AI, climate tech, edtech, and agro-processing. Our members seized the opportunity to connect, learn, and represent Nepal’s growing startup ecosystem on a global stage.

The NAS-IT Retreat 2025, held on March 28-29 at Gokarna Forest Resort, was a valuable opportunity for collaboration, strategic discussions, and team building. Over the two days, our members came together to share ideas, plan future initiatives, and strengthen our collective vision.

On January 11, 2025, the NAS-IT community enjoyed a refreshing hike to Ranikot, combining nature, wellness, and networking. Participants explored scenic trails, built meaningful connections, and relaxed over a delightful lunch at Village Highland Resort. It was a day of bonding, with a perfect mix of outdoor adventure and community spirit.

Recognizing the pivotal role of cybersecurity in improving Nepal’s Global ICT Index, NAS-IT is taking meaningful steps to enhance digital resilience. As part of this initiative, NAS-IT, in collaboration with Logpoint and the Tech Journos Forum (TJF), is proud to present an exclusive Cybersecurity Workshop for Journalists. This workshop is designed to empower TJF members with essential insights into cybersecurity, enabling them to address critical digital security issues with a deeper understanding. Building on this effort, NAS-IT is committed to organizing additional workshops and fostering collaborative discussions to support a comprehensive approach to strengthening Nepal’s digital resilience. Join us in this impactful journey toward a safer digital future.

 The NAS-IT Awards 2024 celebrated innovation and excellence in technology on September 27 at Hotel Soaltee, Kathmandu. The event recognized outstanding achievements across 11 categories, with winners set to represent Nepal at the Asia Pacific ICT Alliance Awards in Brunei this December.

On September 19, NAS-IT successfully conducted an IT Career Workshop, supported by USAID Trade and Competitiveness. The workshop offered ICT students valuable insights into personal branding, key skills sought by employers, resume building, and the fundamentals of starting a tech company. The sessions were led by industry experts Santosh Pandey, Mamita Shrestha, and Bishal Neupane. Orchid International College, our sustainability partner, graciously provided the venue for this event.

NAS-IT was delighted to welcome Orchid International College (OIC) as our sustainability partner. This collaboration strengthened our Sustainability Fund and reaffirmed OIC’s commitment to supporting NAS-IT’s vision of positioning Nepal as a Global Tech Hub.  

NAS-IT announced the launch of two new courses aimed at enhancing the skills of Nepal’s IT workforce: “DevOps Fundamentals” and “Mastering Web Application Development”. Supported by the USAID Trade and Competitiveness project, these courses are offered in collaboration with TechAxis and Presidential Graduate School. The launch event was attended by NAS-IT members, guests from MoCIT, DoIT, development agencies, industry associations, and other stakeholders. These courses are designed to provide IT professionals with the latest industry knowledge and skills.

NAS-IT successfully organized its 2nd Annual General Meeting at The Soaltee Kathmandu, appointing a new leadership team. Over 50 industry leaders gathered to review achievements, discuss future plans, and celebrate NAS-IT’s growth. The event marked the transition of leadership to Mr. Santosh Koirala, with the new team set to elevate Nepal’s IT industry to new heights.

NAS-IT participated in the prestigious London Tech Week (LTW) 2024 as part of the Nepal Pavilion. Recognized as one of the most significant events in the global technology calendar, LTW showcased the latest advancements in technology and innovation. NAS-IT’s presence at LTW underscored its commitment to excellence and innovation within the industry. The event provided an unparalleled opportunity for NAS-IT and its member companies to gain exposure on a global stage and contribute to the ongoing dialogue shaping the future of technology. We are proud of the achievements and connections made during this event and look forward to leveraging these experiences to further advance the software and IT services industry in Nepal. Thank you to all our members and partners for your support and participation.  

NAS-IT, in collaboration with De Haagse Hogeschool / The Hague University of Applied Sciences, successfully hosted an event in the Netherlands. The event showcased the dynamic landscape of the Nepalese software industry and explored fruitful collaboration opportunities with the Nepalese diaspora in Europe. It was an insightful and enriching experience for all participants. The event was supported by NSEA – The Netherlands, Proshore, NIC Europe, NRNA NCC Netherlands, and the Embassy of Nepal (Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg & the European Union). Special thanks to Roshan Bhattarai and Babish Shrestha of Proshore for representing NAS-IT at the event.

NAS-IT hosted a press conference to present policy amendment requests with a comparative analysis ahead of the 2081/82 budget announcement. Some of our requests include a 10-year tax incentive policy, enhanced financial access for IT startups, insurance subsidies, development of IT parks, prioritization of local software companies, international promotion, and the establishment of an autonomous IT promotion board. We believe these initiatives will transform Nepal into a global tech hub and significantly boost the IT industry.

NAS-IT successfully hosted Sydney Connect: Elevate Nepal as a Global Tech Hub. This event explored the future of Nepal’s position in the global tech landscape and was a tremendous success.

NAS-IT meetup brought together IT professionals from Pokhara to dive deep into NAS-IT’s innovative initiatives and programs. The event provided a fantastic opportunity for collaboration and networking among the local tech community.

Mr. Richan Shrestha, President of NAS-IT, had a productive meeting with His Excellency Mr. Kailash Raj Pokharel, Nepalese Ambassador to Australia, in Canberra. The discussion primarily focused on fostering ICT and BPO exports from Nepal to support businesses in Australia. In collaboration with the Embassy of Nepal in Australia, NAS-IT is planning to co-host an event in Sydney aimed at showcasing Nepal’s technology solutions to Australian businesses. This initiative is part of our ongoing efforts to promote Nepal’s tech capabilities and strengthen international business ties.

NAS-IT recently had a highly productive meeting with the UK Ambassador, His Excellency Mr. Rob Fenn. The discussion focused on exploring collaborative opportunities between Nepal and the UK within the tech ecosystem. This partnership aims to foster innovation and growth in both regions.

NAS-IT members, alongside tech luminaries and young entrepreneurs, had the privilege of engaging in a significant discussion with the esteemed Finance Minister. This meeting was a crucial platform for sharing strategic insights and expertise essential for shaping the upcoming budget. During the discussion, NAS-IT presented a comprehensive document highlighting 12 key points designed to advance Nepal’s tech sector and unlock its full potential. Through these efforts, we are committed to fostering innovation and nurturing opportunities for growth within Nepal’s thriving tech landscape.

Hon’ble Minister Rekha Sharma, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, chaired a pivotal meeting with delegates from the Asia Pacific ICT Alliance (APICTA) representing 17 countries, marking a significant stride towards transforming Nepal into a global tech hub. The discussion focused on key areas for advancing Nepal’s tech sector, including exemplary policy interventions in other Asia Pacific nations for ICT development, factors that attract tech investors to Nepal, and potential areas for cross-country collaboration. This important gathering highlights Nepal’s commitment to digital innovation and collaboration on a global scale, showcasing the country’s potential to become a prominent player in the global tech landscape.

NAS-IT proudly hosted “Navigating Growth: Strategies for Startup Ecosystems and Asia Pacific Expansion”, marking a significant milestone in Nepal’s tech landscape. This dynamic event brought together global tech leaders from 17 countries across the Asia Pacific region, alongside government officials, development agencies, private sector representatives, and academia. The gathering was characterized by expert insights, diverse perspectives, and strategies for fostering vibrant startup ecosystems. Attendees engaged in enriching discussions, exchanged valuable knowledge, and forged meaningful connections, all aimed at empowering Nepal’s tech scene.

NAS-IT held its Quarterly Members’ Meet, bringing together a dynamic gathering to showcase event highlights, discuss upcoming plans, and present key presentations. This successful convergence provided attendees with insightful updates, opportunities to welcome new members, and a platform to align future goals and achievements. The event was marked by a spirit of collaboration and enthusiasm, reflecting NAS-IT’s commitment to fostering a vibrant community of tech professionals.

NAS-IT proudly hosted the APICTA exco meeting for the first time in Nepal, uniting delegates from 17 countries to drive forward the future of technology. The event served as a convergence of minds, fostering innovation and collaboration to shape a brighter tomorrow. NAS-IT’s proud initiative showcased Nepal as a burgeoning hub for technological advancement, while uniting leaders from around the world to exchange ideas and propel the industry forward.

NAS-IT hosted the “NAS-IT Pre-Budget Policy Dialogue 2024”, bringing together industry leaders to discuss and prioritize policy changes, evaluate advocacy efforts, and develop a unified strategy. This collaborative session aimed to strengthen the industry’s voice and influence in shaping the upcoming budget announcement. The event was a success, with participants engaging in fruitful discussions and laying the groundwork for a stronger industry approach to policy advocacy. The dialogue sets the stage for a more impactful and effective industry presence in the policy-making process, ensuring that the tech sector’s needs and priorities are well-represented in the upcoming budget.

NAS-IT organized an enlightening diaspora session featuring Pukar C. Hamal, the founder of SecurityPal, where he shared insights from his background and the secrets behind SecurityPal’s remarkable achievements. Discussions ranged from B2B sales strategies to Pukar’s million-dollar pitch, offering attendees a comprehensive understanding of navigating the tech industry. Pukar’s vision of bringing Silicon Valley to Nepal ignited inspiration among participants, emphasizing the potential of local talent on a global scale. His decision to build SecurityPal in Nepal and forge partnerships with industry leaders like OpenAI underscored the impact of leveraging homegrown expertise.

NAS-IT hosted a dynamic diaspora knowledge-sharing session titled “Startup Accelerator Framework & Ecosystems”. The session featured esteemed speakers Ms. Preeti Adhikary, founder of The Great Nepali Diaspora (TGND), and Mr. Sajan Gautam, advisor/investor and Entrepreneur in Residence at Fuel Accelerator, USA. The discussion covered a range of topics, including the inner workings of accelerators, their startup selection criteria, team dynamics, and the importance of mindset. The session also delved into strategies for structuring diaspora engagement and methods for effective outreach.

NAS-IT, in collaboration with SLASSCOM and The World Bank, organized a transformative event focused on organizational strengthening within the tech industry. Drawing from SLASSCOM’s extensive experience as a pioneering association, the event served as a platform for NAS-IT to glean wisdom and insights, fostering an environment ripe for learning and growth.

NAS-IT, in collaboration with SLASSCOM and The World Bank, organized a dynamic event, focused on Talent Development: Building the Future Workforce and Investment & Export Generation, brought together a diverse range of stakeholders, including NAS-IT members, Academia, SLASSCOM representatives, Government agencies, Industry associations, Development agencies, and Think tanks. The discussions and collaborative efforts at the event aimed to drive impactful change and innovation in these critical areas. Special thanks were extended to the World Bank and SLASSCOM for their significant contributions to the success of the event.

NAS-IT conducted the 2nd series of diaspora experience-sharing sessions on “Rise of Gen AI powered applications: Navigating Threats and Adversaries”. The session was delivered by Mr. Sushant Dahal, Security Architect at Palo Alto Networks and Cybersecurity Lecturer at Austin Community College, who explored contemporary trends, including malicious attacks targeting LLM, prompt injection, and sensitive data exposure. The session included demonstrations on detecting prompt injections.

  NAS-IT hosted its first series of Diaspora Experience Sharing Session on “The Dumbest Person in the Room – A Character of True Leader”. The spotlight was on Mr. Sudeep Acharya, the visionary CEO and Co-Founder of MTX APAC, as he shared his leadership wisdom with the participants.

NAS-IT members enjoyed a weekend of knowledge sharing, team bonding, and picturesque views. The retreat provided members with an engaging platform to connect minds, foster collaborations, and embrace the spirit of innovation.

The IT Dialogue: Bridging horizons between the Software Industry and Government Services in Nepal witnessed insightful discussions and fruitful outcomes. The discussions ranged from policy advocacy & exploring tax considerations, to industry challenges. Experts, Mr. Anjan Kumar Dahal and Mr. Arun Raut, offered insights on tax rates, start-ups, employee equity, international transactions, and FDI nuances in Nepal’s IT sector.

NAS-IT representatives presented its membership proposal at the Exco Meeting at the Asian Pacific ICT Alliance Awards (APICTA) 2023. NAS-IT is pleased to share its official confirmation as a proud member of APICTA, signifying a major milestone as Nepal becomes the 17th member economy in this esteemed regional alliance. This membership opens doors to a number of opportunities for NAS-IT and its members, fostering networking with industry leaders, enabling knowledge transfers, and positioning it on an international stage.

NAS-IT and NYEF Kathmandu Chapter united their efforts through a momentous collaboration, formalized by the signing of MOU, aiming to drive the progression of Nepal’s promising tech landscape. One of the six objectives of NAS-IT is “Innovation and entrepreneurship” and this collaboration serves as a progression towards achieving the objective.

NAS-IT in partnership with Ikebana Solutions organized a remarkable event in Tokyo, Japan, where Nepali IT professionals residing in the country came together to connect and network. The meet up was a resounding success, reinforcing the sense of community and collaboration among the Nepalese IT diaspora.

NAS-IT facilitated an enlightening industry visit for the participants of ICT Award 2023, representing startups from all corners of Nepal. The visit featured guided tours and insightful discussions at four leading NAS-IT member companies: CloudFactory, inGrails Pvt. Ltd., Logpoint, and TechKraft Inc. As the participants of the ICT Awards 2023 learnt about the hurdles and success stories of these companies, they were inspired and encouraged to make a mark of their own in the Nepalese ICT sector.

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) centered around the presentation of the annual report, audited financial statements for the fiscal year 2079/80, and forecasted budget. As NAS-IT members reflected on the association’s journey, they applauded  The newly elected board was announced during the event in the presence of the NAS-IT members.

NAS-IT members came together to address the pressing challenges within the IT industry. The Leadership Dialogue : Redefining NAS-IT’s Objectives, a platform for all the members to share their pressing challenges, served as a platform to refine the organization’s objectives and collectively shape the future of IT companies in Nepal. Inspirational insights were shared, and a vision for a thriving IT landscape was crafted. Together, NAS-IT is poised to drive progress, innovation, and sustainable growth in our industry.

To ease financial access to its member companies, NAS-IT signed an MOU with Kumari Bank Limited (KBL) to provide collateral-free working capital loans to its members. Under this partnership, NAS-IT members will have access to a working capital loan facility of up to Rs. 10 million without the requirement of collateral. By alleviating financial constraints, this collaboration aims to empower member companies to explore new horizons and innovative opportunities.

Virtual Open House : Learn About NAS-IT was an informative session where NAS-IT shared the association’s visions, plans, membership procedure, and benefits. It was an interactive session that helped NAS-IT pave its future plans through the valuable inputs and feedback provided by the participants. The session served to validate the establishment of the association.

NAS-IT, in collaboration with Nepal Private Equity Association (NPEA) and USAID T&C, conducted a Private Equity Information Sharing Session. This session empowered the NAS-IT members with the knowledge and information to explore new investment horizons. This event spurred insightful discussions to harness the potential of private equity and venture capitals to propel their ventures to new heights. 

The “Policy Summit 2023” was jointly organized by the National Planning Commission and USAID T&C, along with participation from prominent private sector organizations like CNI, FNCCI, FNCSI, FWEAN, HAN, and NBA. Amidst a gathering of distinguished voices, NAS-IT shared its views on the policies that could help build Nepal as an IT hub. While acknowledging the sector’s immense potential, it also highlighted many challenges and hurdles in the political and legal fronts that need to be addressed for global expansion in the tech sector. NAS-IT’s presentation delved on various requests for policy amendments such as allowing Nepali tech companies to open their subsidiaries and joint-ventures abroad, reducing the FDI minimum investment to under $20,000 and creating a fast-paced FDI approval process, prioritizing local companies while procuring software for government agencies, etc.

The first members meet of the Nepal Association for Software and IT services companies (NAS-IT) was a resounding success, with representatives from some of the country’s most prominent tech firms gathering to discuss the future of the industry. Almost all the founding members attended the meet and had the chance to network with their peers and share ideas on how to drive innovation and growth in the rapidly-evolving tech landscape. The event served as a powerful testament to the potential of Nepal’s tech industry and the critical role that NAS-IT is poised to play in shaping its future.

NAS-IT and USAID Trade & Competitiveness signed a Letter of Cooperation to formalize their collaboration. The letter outlines the joint efforts of both the parties to assist each other in achieving their respective organizational goals, including hosting public-private dialogues and supporting initiatives for the growth of the IT industry in Nepal.

NAS-IT signed an MOU to contribute to the study on ‘Contribution and Challenges of IT service export to Foreign Reserve in Nepal’ initiated by Integrated Institute for Development Studies (IIDS). The final report titled “Unleashing IT: Advancing Nepal’s Digital Economy” presented some remarkable insights.The total IT service export reached USD 515 million in 2022, representing an astounding growth of 64.2%. These exports now account for 1.4% of Nepal’s GDP and 5.5% of its foreign currency reserves.   

IT Bill Hackathon was a collaborative effort between NAS-IT and the Sumana Shrestha Secretariat. It aimed to understand the intricacies and uncover the loopholes in the IT Bill 2075. Over 30 creative minds from tech companies, legal teams, think tanks, and research groups, dived into discussions on problem identification and brainstormed amendments to this critical piece of legislation. But what was truly fascinating was the realization that the tech world and the legal arena often speak different languages. This event highlighted the knowledge gaps and emphasized on the urgent need of policy advocacy within the tech sector.