According to the “Global Startup Ecosystem Index 2026” published by StartupBlink, Nepal has emerged as the world’s fastest-growing “contender ecosystem.” The report states that Nepal’s startup ecosystem recorded a remarkable growth rate of 95.9%.

The report estimates Nepal’s total startup ecosystem value at USD 1.5 billion. In the global ecosystem value ranking, Nepal secured the 77th position worldwide.

In sector-wise evaluation, Nepal ranked 94th globally in the “Software and Data” category, making it the country’s only sector to enter the global top 100 rankings.

However, Nepal ranked 103rd among 125 countries in the “Innovators Business Environment” index, highlighting the need for further policy and business environment improvements.

Kathmandu made significant progress in the global city rankings, climbing 99 positions to reach 426th place. The report described this as one of the biggest jumps recorded in South Asia this year. Kathmandu alone accounts for 95.3% of Nepal’s total startup ecosystem score.

Meanwhile, Biratnagar entered the rankings for the first time, securing the 1546th position globally. The report credited Nepal’s recent policy reforms and improving technology-friendly environment as major drivers behind the ecosystem’s rapid growth.