Prithwi Kalyan Parajuli, from Pokhara, Nepal, is a young management graduate who saw potential in expanding the nutrition and consumer base for Satu, a traditional Nepali flour made from roasted grains. He founded Poshilo Foods in 2021, enriching Satu with ingredients like maize, wheat, gram, peanut, and other nuts, targeting diverse customer groups.
In the same city, Roshani Sharma, a homemaker, ventured into business with a popular festival bread, Selroti, eventually establishing the food processing company Harilo Agro Industries in 2019. Sharma's company produces pickles, jerky, and fermented greens.
Both entrepreneurs faced significant challenges in growing their businesses. According to Parajuli, "REED’s support in financial planning has really helped us plan our activities effectively for more profits." Sharma added, "REED's technical support helped minimize loss and produce high-quality meat products that our customers are loving."
The World Bank-financed Rural Enterprise and Economic Development (REED) Project, launched in 2021, aided these and other rural agri-based businesses by providing business diagnostics, training, and mentorship to selected startups. Through REED, Poshilo and Harilo received intensive support, including mentorship, the development of tailored action plans, quality audits, and training. These efforts were aimed at enhancing business development, market expansion, and adherence to quality standards.
Poshilo's achievements include a five-year business plan, a digital marketing strategy, and market expansion from Nepal to international destinations such as India and the United States. Parajuli stated that Poshilo’s sales volume increased significantly, with employment created for 25 individuals.
Harilo Agro Industries, starting with an investment of Rs 50 million, reported Rs 40 million in revenue by March 2025. The company now employs 23 people, with strengthened supply links ensuring quality products at reasonable prices.
The REED project’s success with ventures like Poshilo and Harilo highlights the significance of market linkages, business capacity building, and the promotion of rural-based value chains.