Notes on Nepal Business: Culture Cafe Setup

Introduction

• Continuation of Culture Cafe setup by Entrepreneurs Nepal.
• Focus on exploring local entrepreneurship.

Cafe Opening Details

• Expecting cafe opening on Friday.
• Need to gather plates and cutleries.
• Discussed shopping plans for plants and pots.

Shopping Experience

• Visited Thimi to explore pottery options.
• Found reasonable prices for plants and pots at local shops.
• Challenges with lead times for custom orders; often takes longer than expected.

Observations on Nepal's Business Environment

• Time-consuming nature of handmade products.
• Skills and availability of artisans might be affecting production.
• Discussion on the system's inefficiencies in supporting local businesses.

Bhaktapur and Thimi Comparisons

• Bhaktapur is known for its artistic pottery.
• Better access to unique art forms and reasonable pricing compared to Kathmandu.
• Importance of timely delivery for successful business operations.

Meeting Local Artisans

• Engagement with local artisans who are passionate about their craft.
• Discussion about their training and workmanship.
• Encouragement from local artisans and the broader impact of international markets on their business.

Gift from Artisans

• Received a gift of a piggy bank from the artisans as a token of appreciation.
• Importance of supporting and fostering local talent and production.

Reflection

• Significance of the entrepreneurs we met in Bhaktapur.
• Their strategies for reaching international markets and sustaining local craftsmanship.

Conclusion

• Overall positive outings with local entrepreneurs.
• Learned the challenges and triumphs of running a business in Nepal.
• Importance of community support and global outreach for local businesses.