The Hult Prize Semi-Finale at IOE Pulchowk Campus took place on February 14 in F Hall, organized by Hult Prize at IOE Pulchowk Campus and proudly presented by Hima Aus Education Consultancy as the Title Sponsor. Hosted by Raghab and Muskan, the event welcomed distinguished guests, a panel of judges, and 16 outstanding teams that had advanced through a highly competitive selection process. The hosts opened with warm greetings, congratulating the teams for their remarkable vision, dedication, and entrepreneurial spirit in developing sustainable solutions with meaningful impact, earning enthusiastic applause from the audience.
In a traditional gesture of respect, Campus Director Raunak Mishra presented khadas to the judges: Ms. Jayanti Malla Chapagain, a dynamic tech entrepreneur and founder of Spiker Solutions known for her advocacy for women in technology; Mr. Anup Acharya, Marketing Manager at HIMA AUS Education Consultancy and an expert in brand strategy and growth marketing; Ms. Dipti Sapkota, Associate at Pioneer Law Associates specializing in corporate law, foreign investment, and capital markets with an LLM from NYU School of Law; and Mr. KP Bhusal, CEO of Five Fingers Consulting, a respected business coach, leadership trainer, and motivational speaker. The ceremony continued with an inaugural plant-watering ritual symbolizing the nurturing and growth of innovative ideas for the future.
The hosts then expressed heartfelt gratitude to the generous sponsors whose support made the event possible, including Title Sponsor Hima Aus Education Consultancy; Gold Sponsors Techaxis, Himalayan Glow Sign Limited, and Chilime Hydropower Company Limited; General Sponsor Singapore Beverages Pvt. Ltd.; Beverage Partners Ralyco, Unibags, GAG Nepal, and Coatex Nepal; Gifting Partners Kunyo Gears, Mudita Store, EcoKanduk, Hesse, Merchandise Grid Nepal, and The Plant Room; Giveaway Partner Lotto Shoes. Their belief in youth entrepreneurship and social innovation was sincerely appreciated.
The judges were formally introduced, highlighting their complementary expertise across technology, marketing, law, and leadership to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of the ventures. Pitching guidelines were clearly outlined: each team had exactly 4 minutes to present their problem, solution, business model, impact, and sustainability, followed by 4 minutes of Q&A with the judges. Strict time management and clear, confident delivery were encouraged.
The 16 teams presented one after another, showcasing diverse and inspiring ideas. Applause followed each pitch, and a 15-minute break split the session; sponsors were thanked again upon resumption. All presentations demonstrated passion, creativity, and strong potential for real-world change. After careful deliberation and scoring, the judges announced that 8 teams would advance to the finals, selected for their standout innovation, potential impact, feasibility, and presentation quality. The finalists received warm congratulations and were invited to stay for group photos.
Judge Anup Acharya delivered encouraging closing remarks that motivated the young entrepreneurs. Campus Director Raunak Mishra then distributed tokens of appreciation to the guests and judges. Final thanks were extended to the judges for their invaluable insights, honored guests for their presence, all sponsors for their generous support, the 16 teams for their dedication and outstanding presentations, and everyone who helped organize the event.
The semi-final concluded as a powerful celebration of innovation, entrepreneurship, and youth's ability to drive positive, sustainable change. Congratulations to the 8 finalists and every participant, Nepal’s next generation of impactful leaders truly shone today!
