The British Council’s In Our Hands (IOH) Programme, in collaboration with partners Applied Arts Scotland, Edinburgh Napier University, Kathmandu University, Nepal Art Village, Story Cycle, and the National Innovation Centre, aimed to foster sustainable, youth-led enterprises in Nepal. As part of the British Council's Culture Responds to Global Challenges global programme and aligned with COP26 and COP27 climate goals, the IOH Programme (2021-2024) focused on promoting creative green economy (CGE) principles. Through capacity building, mentorship, and innovation grants, the programme empowered 88 young entrepreneurs, preserved cultural heritage, and addressed climate challenges. In total, 10 research grants and 17 prototype development grants were awarded to these youth entrepreneurs.
“This programme has helped me refine and realise my project idea. My team was in the process of making a sanitary pad out of banana fibre after the COVID-19 lockdown. At that time, I stumbled upon the Road to COP 26 opportunity and thought this was the right platform to guide me in the process of making an environmentally friendly product. The grant was very helpful for my team and me. I received grants in two phases. Initially, the grant was used for R&D. The Second phase of the grant was utilised to refine the product and was also available for market sale. It has helped to expand my social enterprise ‘Tekka’. I feel like my work has created a small impact on the ground level, which I am happy about. Since my previous work was mostly research-oriented, I am happy to support positive change. I am happy that my work has been contributing to the community.” Tekka Eco Pad, Founder
Read the full programme evaluation report from the download section.