Shark Tank Nepal unveils ‘Sharks’ for its highly anticipated first season

The first season of Shark Tank Nepal was announced some two years back, but due to several reasons such as lingering pandemic effect and economic slump delayed the progress of the much anticipated business reality TV show. 

Finally, Shark Tank Nepal is now preparing to debut its first season, and the panel of judges has now been announced. The show, which gives entrepreneurs a chance to pitch their business ideas to a group of investors, will feature prominent figures from Nepal’s business world: Saurabh Jyoti (Padma Jyoti Group), Cabinet Shrestha (Agni Group), Ritu Singh Vaidya, Hem Raj Dhakal (IME Group) and Anand Bagaria (Nimbus Group).

Set to air on Himalaya Television HD early next year, Shark Tank Nepal is expected to become a key platform for Nepali entrepreneurs, offering them the opportunity to secure debt and equity investment and mentorship from the business minds in the panel.

The panel of judges will evaluate business ideas mostly based on their feasibility and potential for growth. The program will consist of 20 episodes, featuring entrepreneurs from various industries who will present their business proposals in hopes of securing funding.

To apply, entrepreneurs must have a registered and operational business in Nepal for at least one year, and the founders must be Nepali citizens. Applications are being accepted through the Himalaya TV app or website, with a deadline of January 15, 2025. For applications, find a link here.

The organisers of the show expect that the sharks will invest up to NRs 400 million, but it will depend on the scalability prospect of the business presented and the risk appetite of the sharks.

Shark Tank, originally launched as Money Tigers in Japan in 2001, has become a global phenomenon, with versions now airing in over 50 countries. With Shark Tank Nepal, the show is set to bring this successful format to Nepal, offering local entrepreneurs a valuable opportunity to grow their businesses and entertainment and learnings for the audience.