Academia-Industry Training Nepal
The Academia-Industry Training (AIT) Nepal program empowers researchers from Switzerland and Nepal to transform their scientific discoveries into successful businesses. Whether you are conceptualizing a startup idea or have already launched a venture based on your applied research, AIT Nepal provides the support you need to navigate the innovation ecosystems in both Nepal and Switzerland, bringing your solution closer to market readiness.
As a pioneering initiative, AIT Nepal fosters the development of sciencepreneurs by equipping them with the necessary tools and expertise. The program is generously funded by the Swiss Leading House South Asia and is the result of a collaborative effort with our partners, the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation Nepal (SDC) and STARTUP CAMPUS. Together, we guide participants in unlocking the potential of their innovations in both the Nepali and Swiss markets.
AIT Nepal 2026/27
The inaugural edition of the program comprises the following elements:
- Application deadline: May 31, 2026
Apply here - Jury day: July 6, 2026
5 Swiss-based startups will be selected out of all applications in a competitive virtual pitching session. - Kick-off seminary: September 3, 2026
- Seminary in Switzerland: September 21 to 25, 2026
- Seminary in Nepal: March 8 to 12, 2027
Eligibility Swiss-based applicants
The program is open to Swiss-based researchers (this includes professors, senior scientists, postdocs, and PhD students) or master’s students
- of a Swiss federal or cantonal university, university of applied sciences, university of teacher education, or public research institute across all scientific disciplines and fields of research (please check the eligible institutions in our overview),
- with a startup idea, or
- who have founded or co-founded an early-stage, science-based startup or spin-off.
If you meet the criteria above, we are very much looking forward to receiving your application.
What’s in it for you?
- Participate in two fully funded weeks in Nepal and in Switzerland
- Compete for CHF 5,000 to take your next step toward international success
- Join a vibrant community of sciencepreneurs
- Build your international network
Application to the program
The application window for Swiss-based applicants is open until May 31, 2026 (midnight).
In short: Academia-Industry Training Nepal
Grant of CHF 5,000: compete for this grant to further develop and scale your innovation
Expenses covered: all expenses including food, accommodation, and transportation during the seminaries
Program destinations: Nepal and Switzerland
Inspiration
- AIT Nepal in Conversation: In this interview, representatives from the Swiss Leading House South Asia and the Embassy of Switzerland in Nepal share their perspectives on the motivation behind AIT Nepal, the design of the pilot, and the value it offers to participating startups.