In Bagmati Province
On March 12, 2026, we officially launched the Call for Applications for Bagmati Cohort 3 of the Roots of Circularity (RoC) Incubator Program across its social media platforms. Following the announcement, the RoC team carried out extensive outreach and awareness activities to ensure broad and inclusive participation from aspiring circular entrepreneurs across diverse communities.
Over the one-month application period, the team actively coordinated with wards, organizations, and community representatives, to encourage inclusive engagement in the program. Information regarding the program and application process was disseminated through social media campaigns, emails, telephonic outreach, and direct stakeholder coordination. As part of the outreach efforts, we also organized a “What’s Hub” session on March 20, 2026, where interested individuals were introduced to the RoC Incubator Program and its opportunities. These initiatives played a significant role in receiving applications from entrepreneurs willing to adopt the circular economy principles into their business.
All the applications received for the RoC Incubator Program – Bagmati Cohort 3 were screened based on the selection criteria (eligibility criteria and evaluation criteria). Those applications that met the criteria and scored the most were then moved forward for the final round of evaluation i.e. in-person interviews. After the in-person interviews 10 applicants were finally selected for the incubation program.
On May 6, 2026, we officially onboarded and oriented the 10 selected incubatees of Bagmati Cohort 3, marking the beginning of their incubation journey. The orientation session introduced participants to the overall structure, objectives, and benefits of the RoC Incubator Program while outlining the expectations and commitment required throughout the incubation period. Incubatees were also familiarized with Impact Hub Kathmandu’s mission, ecosystem, and collaborative working environment.
Continuing the learning journey, we conducted Masterclass 1: Introduction to Circular Economy and Masterclass 1.1: Developing Circular Mindset on May 7, 2026. The session explored the evolution of economic systems from the Industrial Revolution to today’s circular economy approaches. Participants were introduced to concepts such as regenerative thinking, embedding feedback mechanisms, and alternative frameworks to the traditional linear “take-make-waste” model, including the butterfly diagram. The session encouraged active participation, critical reflection, and engaging discussions among incubatees on bringing circularity into action
We also officially launched the Circular Economy Toolkit – English Version during the session. Now, the Circular Economy Toolkit which is for entrepreneurs and entrepreneur supporting organizations is readily available in both English and Nepali versions on the Impact Hub Kathmandu website.
As part of its ongoing commitment to promoting circular entrepreneurship in Nepal, we also proudly organized the RoC Marketplace on 20 May, 2026, bringing together incubatees from Bagmati Cohort 2 and 3 to showcase their innovative products, businesses, and circular solutions. The marketplace highlighted enterprises contributing towards sustainability, responsible production resource efficiency, and waste reduction. The event was honored by the presence of Her Excellency Veronique Lorenzo, EU Ambassador to Nepal and Bandana Thapa, Program Manager | EU Nepal; their interaction with participants and recognition of Bagmati Cohort 2 upon completion of their incubation journey added significance to the occasion. The marketplace also welcomed members of the Youth Sounding Board and representatives from implementing partner WCN, fostering collaboration, networking, and shared learning among stakeholders committed to advancing circular economy practices in Nepal.
In Lumbini Province
In Lumbini Province, we are continuing to strengthen the capacity of circular entrepreneurs under the RoC Incubator Program. On April 8, 2026, we organized an in-depth Masterclass on the Circular Business Model Canvas (CBMC) for Lumbini Cohort 2. Facilitated by Selisha Shrestha, Program Officer, and Brijesh Bhattarai, Financial Analyst, the session introduced participants to the nine core components of the Business Model Canvas through a circularity lens. Through practical exercises and guided activities, incubatees explored how circular strategies can strengthen business planning, resource optimization, and long-term sustainability. The masterclass equipped participants with practical frameworks and tools to further refine and structure their circular business models.
Following this, for them we also facilitated a comprehensive Masterclass on Circular Business Plan at our Incubator Space in BUCCI, Butwal. The session was led by Padmakshi Rana, PhD, Executive Director and Co-founder, and Keshav Dhakal, Program Officer. The masterclass began with pitch deck presentations from each incubatee, where participants showcased their businesses, business models, and circular approaches. Through these presentations, incubatees demonstrated how their ventures are integrating circular economy principles through sustainable practices, waste reduction, resource efficiency, and innovative circular solutions. The session further guided participants through key components of a circular business plan, including defining business purpose, vision, mission, customer segments, value proposition, circular strategies, and long-term impact. Through interactive discussions and hands-on activities, participants are working towards refining their business products/services into more structured, impactful, and purpose-driven circular business.
