Evidence for Innovation: A case for supporting MSMEs in Nepal

The project, supported by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), Canada, aims to provide an overview of the innovation policy environment in Nepal, and illustrate the innovation support programmes aimed at micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the country, with a focus on equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) characteristics. The project will perform an analysis of the innovation policy environment and a comprehensive mapping of innovation activities and innovation support programs relevant to MSMEs from various dimensions (e.g., public vs private initiatives; direct and passive innovations; rural and urban settings; different sectors of MSMEs). Information will be collected from a cross-section of stakeholders, including MSME entrepreneurs, innovation implementation agencies, policymakers, academia, end-users and beneficiaries. The project will include training and capacity building activities for graduate students. The dissemination of the findings of the proposed survey will also help inform other entrepreneurs about the innovation scene.