We are excited to announce the official launch of the Building Entrepreneurial Access Models (BEAM) Project! After a rigorous selection process, 11 exceptional entrepreneurs have been chosen for this journey. Each of them has demonstrated remarkable resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to their entrepreneurial dreams.
During the selection interviews, the panel was deeply moved by the powerful narratives shared. The conversations were not just assessments but moments of profound reflection—stories of perseverance, challenges, and breakthroughs that left a lasting impact. These entrepreneurs are not just building businesses; they are reshaping the landscape of inclusive entrepreneurship.
On February 13, 2025, Impact Hub Kathmandu opened its doors to 11 dynamic women entrepreneurs with disabilities for the Orientation and Onboarding session of the BEAM Incubator Program. Held at Impact Hub’s welcoming and accessible space in Pulchowk, the orientation program marked the beginning of an exciting six-month journey designed to support these entrepreneurs in strengthening their businesses. The session introduced participants to the program’s structure, expectations, and support systems. It also provided space for them to share their journey and experiences, discuss challenges, and start planning their business goals. With a focus on accessibility and inclusion, the BEAM program aims to provide practical guidance, mentorship, coaching, and resources to help these entrepreneurs strengthen their businesses over the coming months.
The session began with a warm welcome from Dr. Padmakshi Rana, Executive Director of Impact Hub Kathmandu. She introduced the participants to the vision of Impact Hub, an organization dedicated to building impactful solutions and supporting entrepreneurs who are shaping the future and making a social impact. She emphasized that Impact Hub Kathmandu is a safe and inclusive space where bold ideas can take root, and collaboration is key. More importantly, she assured the participants that this program is designed specifically for them to help them grow their businesses and provide a platform for mutual learning.
Rashi Maharjan, Program and Research Officer at Impact Hub, then provided an overview of the BEAM program. She explained how the program was carefully designed based on research into the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs with disabilities in Nepal. Following this, Nischal Shrestha, Programs Assistant at Impact Hub Kathmandu, shared the program and coaching timeline and briefed about each masterclass’s contents, why we added them, and the coaching modality. From structured business coaching sessions to financial guidance and networking opportunities, every element of BEAM will equip these entrepreneurs with the tools they need to thrive. She also highlighted the importance of collective commitment—ensuring that both the participants and the Impact Hub team work together to create an environment of trust, learning, and empowerment.
One of the most inspiring moments of the day was the “Story Time” session, where each entrepreneur shared their journey. From overcoming personal challenges to building businesses with resilience and determination, their stories highlighted not only their entrepreneurial spirit but also their deep commitment to making a difference in their communities. To symbolize their collective growth, a 3D-printed tree was passed around, and each participant attached a leaf with their name on it, turning it into a representation of their aspirations and how they collectively form a network of support like trees.
The orientation also introduced participants to strategic business tools such as SMART Goals and the WOOP Model (Wish, Outcome, Obstacles, and Plan). Through guided exercises, they learned how to set clear, achievable business goals and develop actionable steps to overcome challenges. While some of the concepts were initially complex, the facilitators ensured that every participant fully understood how to apply these frameworks to their businesses. This highlighted the need for future masterclasses to be even more tailored and accessible to match the participants’ unique experiences and learning styles.
The BEAM Incubator Orientation successfully laid the foundation for the months ahead, creating a sense of community and mutual learning. The incubatees left with new insights, strengthened confidence, and a shared commitment to making the most of this journey. As they embark on the next phase of the program—diving into business strategy and personalized coaching—Impact Hub Kathmandu remains dedicated to walking alongside them, ensuring that their ideas, businesses, and impact continue to grow and create the change the society needs.
The first Masterclass of the BEAM Incubator Program 2025 took place on March 19, 2025, at Impact Hub Kathmandu. This engaging session brought together women entrepreneurs with disabilities to gain practical insights into building and scaling their businesses. The masterclass, facilitated by Rashi Maharjan, Rohan Shrestha, Brijesh Bhattarai, and Nischal Shrestha, focused on key topics such as User Personas, Value Chain, and Financial Management & Bookkeeping.
The first session, led by Rashi Maharjan and Nischal Shrestha, introduced the User Persona and Value Chain concept. To make the learning more relatable, they presented the case of Sita Mali, a fictional entrepreneur who makes and sells flower garlands. This approach helped participants understand key business concepts by drawing parallels with their ventures. Discussions on the value chain covered different stages of business, from input and production to sales and customer experience, making the session interactive and highly relevant.
The Financial Management and Bookkeeping session, led by Brijesh Bhattarai, provided critical insights into managing business finances effectively. Using the persona of Sita Mali, Brijesh illustrated the importance of financial discipline, emphasizing how a lack of proper bookkeeping could hinder business growth. He introduced the concept of a daily ledger and guided participants through a practical exercise to track their earnings and expenses. Participants gained an understanding of financial management by categorizing expenses into key areas such as Cost of Goods Sold, Operational Costs, Personal Expenses, Taxes, and Savings. Participants found this session particularly impactful, as it addressed common financial challenges they faced in their businesses.
The afternoon session, led by Rohan Shrestha, delved into Business Strategy. The discussion began with the Golden Circle framework, prompting participants to reflect on why they are in business, how they operate, and what they deliver. This was followed by a SWOT analysis exercise, where they identified their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Through guided discussions, they developed actionable strategies to leverage strengths, address weaknesses, seize opportunities, and mitigate risks.
The masterclass concluded with a reflection session, where participants shared their key takeaways. They expressed appreciation for the practical knowledge gained, particularly in financial management and strategic planning.
This first masterclass successfully provided participants with valuable insights and practical tools to strengthen their businesses. The interactive and hands-on approach ensured that each entrepreneur left with a clearer understanding of their business strategies and financial management practices. With a strong foundation set, the BEAM Incubator Program continues to support these women entrepreneurs in their journey towards sustainable growth and success.
