Kathmandu - The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation has announced a grant programme to support the organization of startup hackathons focused on science, technology and innovation.
The ministry has invited proposals from interested organizations seeking financial support under the Science, Technology and Innovation Startup Hackathon Grant Programme. The hackathons will be organized at both the provincial and national levels.
According to the ministry, organizations interested in organizing a hackathon can submit their proposals within 15 days from the date of publication of the notice, October 5 (19 Asoj). Proposals can be submitted via email at [email protected] or directly to the ministry.
Applicants must submit the required information and certified documents specified under Section 7 of the “Procedure for Operating the Grant Programme for Science, Technology and Innovation Conferences, Exhibitions and Startup Hackathons, 2083.”
The proposal must clearly state whether the proposed hackathon will be conducted at the provincial or national level.
A selection committee will evaluate the proposals based on the initial screening and presentation process. Proposals deemed eligible will be shortlisted and submitted to the ministry for approval.
Organizations selected for the grant will be required to enter into an agreement with the ministry and conduct the hackathon in accordance with their approved proposal. The same individual cannot participate in more than one programme under the grant scheme.
The organizers must submit a completion report within 21 days of completing the programme. They will also be required to include representatives or observers from the ministry in the participant-selection and evaluation processes.
For provincial-level hackathons, the grant may be used only for operating the grant-supported programme and providing prizes to the winners.
For national-level hackathons, organizers may also use the grant to cover expenses related to participants’ accommodation, training and trainers.
Organizations receiving funds from other sources for the programme must submit a self-declaration confirming that there is no duplication of funding.
The programme is intended to support hackathon activities that encourage innovation and the development of startup ideas in science, technology and innovation.