Nepal’s entrepreneurial ecosystem is growing at an incredible pace, and Shark Tank Nepal has arrived to give startups the exposure, mentorship, and funding they need to thrive. Modeled after the global Shark Tank format, the show features a panel of accomplished business leaders — the “Sharks” — who evaluate, invest, and guide the country’s brightest startup ideas.
In this article, we take a closer look at the judges of Shark Tank Nepal Season 1, their backgrounds, areas of expertise, and what makes them instrumental in shaping Nepal’s startup landscape.
🦈 1. Hem Raj Dhakal – Finance & Entrepreneurial Visionary
Position: Co-founder & Managing Director, IME Group
Expertise: Finance, fintech, entrepreneurial leadership
Hem Raj Dhakal is the co-founder and managing director of IME Group, one of Nepal’s leading financial and remittance companies. With extensive experience in finance and entrepreneurial leadership, Hem Raj brings a sharp business mind and deep understanding of scaling financial services. On Shark Tank Nepal, he evaluates startups based on their financial viability, growth potential, and strategic planning.
🦈 2. Cabinet Shrestha – Automotive & Industrial Expert
Position: Founder & Managing Director, Agni Group
Expertise: Automotive, business expansion, operations
Cabinet Shrestha is a prominent figure in the automotive and industrial sectors in Nepal. He specializes in vehicle distribution, electric vehicles, and large-scale business operations. Cabinet provides startups with guidance on operations, supply chain management, and scaling strategies, helping entrepreneurs navigate competitive markets successfully.
🦈 3. Ritu Singh Vaidya – FMCG & Consumer Goods Leader
Position: Director, Vaidya’s Organisation
Expertise: FMCG, healthcare, brand strategy
Ritu Singh Vaidya serves as the director of Vaidya’s Organisation, a company involved in FMCG, healthcare, and consumer goods. Recognized for promoting women’s entrepreneurship, Ritu focuses on brand building, product quality, and market-fit strategies. She mentors startups to refine their offerings and build consumer trust in highly competitive sectors.
🦈 4. Anand Bagaria – Agribusiness & Rural Innovation Specialist
Position: Managing Director, Nimbus Group
Expertise: Agribusiness, agriculture technology, rural development
Anand Bagaria leads Nimbus Group, with a focus on agribusiness and agricultural technology. His experience in transforming agricultural supply chains and fostering rural business opportunities allows him to guide startups working in food processing, farm technologies, and rural innovations. Anand emphasizes scalable, practical solutions for real-world challenges.
🦈 5. Saurabh Jyoti – Manufacturing & Industrial Strategist
Position: Director, Padma Jyoti Group
Expertise: Manufacturing, trade, business operations
Saurabh Jyoti has extensive experience in manufacturing, trade, and industrial operations. As a director at Padma Jyoti Group, he brings expertise in scaling businesses, industrial investments, and operational efficiency. On the show, Saurabh evaluates startups based on their potential for long-term growth and operational effectiveness.
Why These Sharks Matter for Nepal’s Startups
The Sharks of Shark Tank Nepal represent the heart of Nepal’s business ecosystem. From finance and technology to agriculture, manufacturing, and consumer goods, they provide startups with mentorship, funding, and strategic guidance. Their diverse expertise ensures that entrepreneurs receive holistic support to grow and scale their businesses successfully.
FAQs
1. Who are the investors in Shark Tank Nepal?
A. The investors, or “Sharks,” are Hem Raj Dhakal (IME Group), Cabinet Shrestha (Agni Group), Ritu Singh Vaidya (Vaidya’s Organisation), Anand Bagaria (Nimbus Group), and Saurabh Jyoti (Padma Jyoti Group).
2. What industries do the Sharks prefer investing in?
A. Each Shark has expertise in different sectors: finance, automotive, FMCG/consumer goods, agribusiness, and manufacturing. They evaluate startups based on scalability, innovation, and business fundamentals.
3. How much funding do Sharks usually invest in startups?
A. The investment amount varies depending on the startup’s potential, business model, and negotiation with the Sharks. Investments can range from a few lakhs to several crores NPR.
4. Do all startups get a deal on Shark Tank Nepal?
A. No. Each Shark evaluates the business independently, and deals are offered only if the Shark believes in the potential of the startup. Many startups leave without investment but gain valuable feedback.
5. Can the Sharks co-invest together?
A. Yes. Sometimes multiple Sharks decide to invest together in a single startup if they see strong potential and want to share the risk and guidance.
6. Where can viewers watch Shark Tank Nepal?
A. Shark Tank Nepal airs on Himalaya TV HD, and selected episodes may also be available online through official streaming platforms or the show’s website.
