The Sikkim government launched a Cohort programme on Thursday at the Digital Nomad Village, Yakten. Organised by the District Administrative Centre (DAC) Pakyong in collaboration with Nomad Village, the initiative aims to connect aspiring and established entrepreneurs with professionals across India specializing in technology, marketing, finance, and design. The programme provides an intensive platform for entrepreneurs to engage in problem-solving sessions, brainstorm innovative solutions, and address practical challenges in their businesses. By promoting knowledge sharing and mentorship, the initiative seeks to nurture local talent and foster sustainable business growth across the state.
Speaking at the launch, Member of Parliament Indra Hang Subba highlighted Sikkim’s untapped potential in sectors such as agriculture, tourism, biodiversity, and natural resource management. He praised the programme for connecting local entrepreneurs with industry experts and emphasised the importance of mentorship and collaborative opportunities in building a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem. “We should aim to expand Nomad Villages and similar cohort initiatives to every district, ensuring broader access to guidance, funding, and technical support,” he added. District Collector Rohan Agawane also lauded the programme, noting that the forum offers a unique opportunity for local entrepreneurs to showcase their business ideas, discuss long-term visions, and identify strategies for growth. Sessions during the event included presentations from mentors who shared personal experiences and outlined resources available to help start-ups scale sustainably.
Experts participating in the programme included Dr Nitin Kareer, Chairman of the Maharashtra State Finance Commission, and Dr Vandana Nadig Nair, Co-Founder of Elder Aid Wellness and Phicus. Their sessions focused on financial planning, innovation strategies, and sustainable business practices, providing participants with actionable insights to strengthen their ventures.