GarudX Wins the 2026 U.S.–Nepal Startup Weekend Challenge
In a country where geography is often the biggest barrier to progress, a local drone technology startup is proving that the future of Nepali logistics and safety lies in the sky. GarudX, a Nepal-based professional drone company, has been declared the overall winner of the U.S.–Nepal Startup Weekend Challenge, securing Rs. 350,000 in seed funding.
The Challenge: From 283 to 1
The competition, supported by the U.S. Embassy in Nepal and implemented by One to Watch, was a rigorous three-day accelerator-style program. It began with 283 applications from across the country. From this massive pool, only 25 teams were shortlisted, and finally, nine finalist teams pitched their ventures to a distinguished panel of judges.
GarudX emerged at the top, outshining competitors in sectors ranging from AI and ed-tech to bio-enzymes. The judging panel—which included Mike Harker (Public Affairs Chief at the U.S. Embassy) and Suman Joshi (Managing Director at One to Watch)—cited GarudX’s technical precision and real-world scalability as the deciding factors.
The Innovation: Drones Built for Nepal
GarudX, led by Adarsha Bhusal, is not just importing drones; they are designing and assembling them specifically for Nepal’s rugged terrain. Their impact is already being felt on the front lines:
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Life-Saving Tech: They recently engineered a specialized life-jacket dropping mechanism for the Nepal Police’s drone unit, aimed at water rescue operations.
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Agricultural Precision: Developing drones that can fly in rain and navigate high altitudes to assist farmers.
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Breaking the “Remote ID” Barrier: While Nepal’s drone industry has faced regulatory hurdles regarding registration and testing, GarudX has been a vocal leader in pushing for a standardized testing and registration system in Nepal.
Strengthening the U.S.–Nepal Partnership
Speaking at the event, Scott Urbom, Charge d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy, emphasized that the success of startups like GarudX reflects the strength of the U.S.–Nepal partnership. By connecting Nepali founders with American innovation models and mentors (like U.S. tech leader John B. Park), the program aims to build a resilient, high-tech economy in Nepal.
What’s Next for GarudX?
With the Rs. 350,000 seed funding and new global mentorship connections, GarudX is looking to move beyond prototypes. Adarsha Bhusal’s goal for the next five years is clear: to put a Nepali-made drone product on the global stage, proving that “Made in Nepal” can compete with the best in the world.
