Unnati & Marriott Business Council sign deal to promote Nepali products globally

KATHMANDU: A strategic partnership has been signed between Unnati, an initiative under the Chaudhary Foundation, and the Marriott Business Council South Asia to connect Nepal’s traditional skills, women entrepreneurship, and locally produced handicrafts with the international hospitality market.

Unnati is a dedicated initiative focused on linking Nepal’s traditional craftsmanship, women-led enterprises, and community-based handmade products with wider commercial markets.

The agreement was signed between Nirvana Chaudhary and Marriott Business Council South Asia, represented by Kiran Endikot. The signing ceremony was attended by prominent figures including Binod Chaudhary and David Marriott, along with senior representatives from both organizations.

The partnership aims to integrate Nepalese handicrafts and locally produced goods into the global hospitality value chain by exploring opportunities to feature and utilize them across Marriott International hotels worldwide.

This initiative is expected to promote Nepal’s indigenous art forms and create sustainable economic opportunities for local communities.

Under the collaboration, Unnati will develop and curate products suitable for hotel operations and corporate gifting through its premium brand “Sia.” The initiative will also focus on identifying and mobilizing skilled artisans and women-led enterprises, ensuring product quality and authenticity, and strengthening branding, storytelling, and impact assessment.

On the other hand, Marriott will provide guidance on product requirements for hotel operations, explore opportunities to showcase selected Nepalese products across its properties, and facilitate discussions to integrate these products into hotel operating supplies and equipment systems.

Speaking at the ceremony, Nirvana Chaudhary emphasized that Nepal has a rich tradition of craftsmanship and entrepreneurship that deserves global recognition. He expressed confidence that the partnership will empower women entrepreneurs and artisans by connecting them directly to international markets.

The collaboration is expected to preserve and promote Nepal’s cultural heritage while fostering inclusive economic growth. By creating pathways for locally made products to reach global consumers, the initiative aims to strengthen the country’s handicraft sector and encourage sustainable enterprise development.

Both organizations reaffirmed their commitment to socially responsible business practices, empowerment of local producers, and promoting Nepal’s unique cultural identity on the global stage through innovative and impactful partnerships.