The highly anticipated business reality show Shark Tank Nepal is set to make its grand debut in 2025 (2081 BS), bringing a fresh wave of opportunity to Nepali entrepreneurs. Produced by Himalaya Television HD, Shark Tank Nepal is more than just a show—it’s a transformative platform for business owners to pitch their ideas and secure investments from top-tier investors, affectionately known as the “Sharks.”
The Shark Tank format, which originally launched as Money Tigers on Nippon TV in Japan in 2001, has since become the world's leading business reality TV show. Broadcasted in over 50 countries, Shark Tank has empowered entrepreneurs by providing them with the opportunity to secure investments and mentorship in exchange for equity or debt. With versions in countries like the United States, India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, the show has revolutionized the entrepreneurial landscape across the globe.
Now, Nepal is set to join the Shark Tank family in 2025. With Shark Tank Nepal, entrepreneurs from all over the country will have the chance to pitch their ideas to a distinguished panel of investors, helping them raise the capital needed to take their businesses to the next level. Himalaya Television HD, which holds the exclusive rights to produce and air Shark Tank Nepal, is poised to create a vibrant space for innovation and entrepreneurship in Nepal.
A Global Phenomenon Comes to Nepal
Meet the Sharks
For Season 1, Shark Tank Nepal has assembled a powerhouse panel of Nepali business tycoons, also known as High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs). These investors bring a wealth of experience and resources to the table, offering not only capital but also valuable mentorship to help businesses grow. The Sharks for Season 1 include:
Hem Raj Dhakal – IME Group
Expertise: Hem Raj is a leading figure in Nepal’s remittance industry and has expanded into various sectors like real estate and education. He’s known for his focus on financial inclusion.
Position: Co-Founder & Chairman, IME Group
Industry: Finance, Remittance, Real Estate, Education
Cabinet Shrestha – Agni Group
Expertise: Cabinet is known for introducing Mahindra vehicles in Nepal and for pioneering the electric vehicle market. He focuses on sustainable energy and manufacturing.
Position: Chairman, Agni Group
Industry: Automotive, Renewable Energy
Ritu Singh Vaidya – Toyota Nepal
Expertise: Ritu has significantly grown Toyota’s market share in Nepal. She focuses on customer satisfaction, innovation, and expanding Toyota’s presence through retail and service networks.
Position: Managing Director, Toyota Nepal
Industry: Automotive, Retail
Saurabh Jyoti – Padma Jyoti Group
Expertise: Saurabh is known for his leadership in manufacturing and distribution. The Padma Jyoti Group is a diversified conglomerate in Nepal, covering industries from appliances to electronics.
Position: Executive Director, Padma Jyoti Group
Industry: Manufacturing, Distribution
The Investment Opportunity
The organizers of Shark Tank Nepal have high expectations for the show, estimating that the Sharks could potentially invest Minium NPR 35-40 Cr in the businesses pitched. However, the actual investment amount will depend on the scalability of the business and the risk tolerance of the Sharks. Entrepreneurs seeking funding must be prepared to offer equity or debt in exchange for the investment, and they will also need to demonstrate their business’s potential for long-term growth.
For those interested in applying, businesses must have been registered and operational for at least one year in Nepal. Founders must be Nepali citizens, and applications will be accepted through the Himalaya TV app or website until January 31, 2025.
A Revolution in Nepali Entrepreneurship
The launch of Shark Tank Nepal comes at a time when entrepreneurship in Nepal is gaining momentum, but access to capital and mentorship has been a significant challenge for many business owners. Shark Tank Nepal aims to change this by offering a national platform where startups and small businesses can present their ideas to potential investors and secure the support they need to grow.
Himalaya Television HD has been campaigning for the show across Nepal, and the response has been overwhelming. Entrepreneurs from a range of industries—whether tech startups, manufacturing, or services—are eager to participate and take advantage of the opportunity to pitch their business ideas to the Sharks.
Building the Future of Nepali Business
Shark Tank Nepal isn’t just about securing investment; it’s about fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation in Nepal. The show offers aspiring business owners the chance to not only secure funding but also gain invaluable insights and mentorship from some of the country's most successful business figures.
As Sonika Bhasin, Vice President of International Distribution for South Asia at Sony Pictures Television, states: "After the incredible success of Shark Tank in India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, we are thrilled to bring this revolutionary show to Nepal. Shark Tank has empowered countless entrepreneurs and inspired millions with their stories of innovation and determination. We are excited to extend this legacy to Nepal, fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and providing a stage for Nepali visionaries to shine."
Shyam Kadel, Executive Director of Himalaya TV HD, adds: “We take pride in launching Shark Tank Nepal in 2025 with Nepal’s high-profile business personalities as Sharks who are committed to investing in businesses. Despite challenges like COVID-19 and economic setbacks, we are confident that Shark Tank Nepal will bring about a revolution in the entrepreneurial ecosystem and investment culture in Nepal.”
How to Apply
Entrepreneurs eager to appear on Shark Tank Nepal must meet the eligibility requirements, which include having a registered and operational business in Nepal for at least one year. Applications can be made through the Himalaya TV app or via the Himalaya TV website. The application deadline for Season 1 is January 31, 2025.
The 20-episode series will feature a diverse range of entrepreneurs pitching their business ideas, with each episode offering unique insights into Nepal's growing entrepreneurial landscape.
The Future of Entrepreneurship in Nepal
As Nepal joins the Shark Tank family, the stage is set for innovation, investment, and entrepreneurial success. Shark Tank Nepal is poised to be a game-changer for Nepali businesses, providing entrepreneurs with access to funding, mentorship, and exposure. This marks a significant milestone in Nepal's business ecosystem, and the show will surely leave a lasting impact on aspiring entrepreneurs across the country.
Whether you're a startup, an established business, or someone with an innovative idea, Shark Tank Nepal offers the opportunity to turn your dreams into reality. Get ready to dive into the tank and showcase your vision to the Sharks!
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