Shark Tank Nepal set to launch in 2025: A platform for aspiring entrepreneurs

KATHMANDU: Nepal is set to join the global Shark Tank phenomenon with the launch of Shark Tank Nepal in 2025. The highly anticipated business reality show, known for revolutionizing entrepreneurship and startup ecosystems worldwide, will be produced and broadcast by Himalaya Television HD, which has secured the exclusive rights from Sony Pictures Television (SPT).

A Global Legacy of Shark Tank

Shark Tank began its journey in 2001 as Money Tigers on Nippon TV in Japan. Over the years, the format has grown into the world’s most adapted business reality show, surpassing 50 territories by 2024. Under various titles such as Shark Tank (in the U.S., Mexico, India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan), Lions’ Den (Germany, Denmark, Kenya), and Dragons’ Den (United Kingdom and others), the show has empowered entrepreneurs globally.

Nepal is the latest addition to this prestigious lineup, joining South Asia’s successful launches in India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.

Top Business Leaders as Sharks
Season 1 of Shark Tank Nepal will feature some of the country’s most prominent business tycoons as Sharks, who will invest in innovative business ideas pitched by entrepreneurs. The Sharks for the inaugural season include:

Hem Raj Dhakal
Cabinet Shrestha
Ritu Singh Vaidya
Anand Bagaria
Saurabh Jyoti

These High Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs) bring a wealth of experience and resources to foster Nepal’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Empowering Nepali Entrepreneurs
Sonika Bhasin, Vice President, International Distribution, South Asia, at Sony Pictures Television, expressed excitement about bringing Shark Tank to Nepal:

“Shark Tank has empowered countless entrepreneurs and inspired millions with their stories of innovation and determination. We are thrilled to extend this legacy to Nepal, fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and providing a stage for Nepali visionaries to shine. This is a significant step in strengthening the Shark Tank brand across South Asia, and we look forward to the groundbreaking ideas Nepal has to offer.”

Shyam Kadel, Executive Director of Himalaya TV HD, highlighted the challenges and aspirations tied to the show:

“Despite hurdles like COVID-19 and economic challenges, we are proud to launch Shark Tank Nepal 2025. With Nepal’s high-profile business personalities as Sharks, we aim to revolutionize the entrepreneurial ecosystem and investing culture in startups and businesses.”

Application Details for Season 1
Himalaya TV has announced a 20-episode series for Shark Tank Nepal’s first season and has opened applications for businesses seeking investment. Entrepreneurs must meet the following criteria:

Businesses must be registered and operational in Nepal for at least one year.
Founders must be Nepali citizens.
Entrepreneurs must present clear data and pitch for equity or debt investment.
Applications can be submitted via the Himalaya TV app or the official Himalaya TV website. The deadline for submissions is January 15, 2025.

A New Era for Entrepreneurship in Nepal
With the launch of Shark Tank Nepal, the country’s entrepreneurs will have an unprecedented opportunity to showcase their ideas, secure investments, and gain mentorship from top business leaders. The show promises to inspire and uplift Nepal’s startup ecosystem, driving innovation and economic growth.