The project, funded by The Asia Foundation, began in March 2003 with the primary objective of raising awareness about e-Procurement among various stakeholders, including government entities, businesses, industries, public enterprises, associations, donors, and NGOs. It also aimed to advocate for and create capacity-building initiatives for e-Procurement. Additionally, the project focused on conducting orientation programs, developing the procurement portal (www.bolpatra.gov.np), providing hands-on training, and facilitating the handover of the portal to a government agency. The project also assisted in creating institutions as envisioned by the Electronic Transaction Ordinance and supported the government in implementing the Public Procurement Regulation. The e-Procurement Portal of Nepal became operational in December 2004 and was officially handed over to the Government of Nepal, High-Level Commission for Information Technology (HLCIT), and National Information Technology Centre (NITC) in March 2006. The portal continues to provide services such as advocacy, capacity building, conducting orientation training programs, and assisting in the creation of institutions as outlined by the Electronic Transaction Ordinance. Additionally, the project played a role in advocating for the creation of the Electronic Transaction Act and the IT Tribunal, including the establishment of the Controller of Certification Authority for institutionalizing e-Procurement in Nepal. Download relevant documents here InfoDev, The World Bank awarded Business Incubation Planning grant to ITPF in July 2004 through a global competitive selection process. The major objectives of the assignment was to study the need for business incubation; to research into the environment of its possibility in Nepal; and to prepare a Business Plan for potential Incubator. This project supported small businesses and emerging entrepreneurs by facilitating business incubation services and promoting the effective use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). It assisted organizations in planning and providing these services, addressing specific business support needs, and creating alliances to expand opportunities. Through multi-stakeholder collaboration, the project facilitated consensus, collaboration, and decision-making to mobilize resources and improve access to ICT infrastructure and services. Networking and knowledge dissemination efforts promoted the application of ICT skills for business competitiveness and socioeconomic development. Capacity building was a key aspect, aiming to develop human and institutional capacity for promoting ICT in small enterprise and e-business development. The project also advocated for improved ICT policies to encourage investments and growth in the local small business community. By raising awareness and promoting cooperation between national, regional, and global activities, the project enhanced ICT-enhanced business incubation as an engine for sustainable development. Participation in InfoDev activities further promoted networking and knowledge dissemination regarding ICT applications. The project documented and shared experiences, providing detailed descriptions of efforts to use ICT in planning and establishing business incubators, designing and marketing services, and securing additional financial support. Overall, the project contributed to the growth and sustainability of small businesses and emerging entrepreneurs through effective ICT use and collaborative partnerships. ITPF prepared and handed over the Business Plan for BIC Kathmandu to DOCSI (Department of Cottage and Small Industries), the responsible government body for its implementation. ITPF is working hand-in-hand with stakeholders – DOCSI, CSITC, HLCIT, IOE, KU, KEC, NCC for establishing and operating incubator(s) in Nepal. View Final Business-Plan for Business Incubation Center HERE
E-Procurement
Business Incubation Initiative in Nepal