The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has launched the USAID Business Accelerator for Clean Air, a program that aims to help mitigate air pollution in Kathmandu Valley with the participation of the private sector.

Along with USAID, Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago (EPIC), Environment and Public Health Organization (ENPHO) and One to Watch (OTW), in collaboration with the government of Nepal and private sector stakeholders will be actively working in the project.

The program is a five-year business development support program for businesses that will offer masterclasses, strategy support, and networking opportunities to work towards improving the quality of air in the Valley, leading to better health of the people.

Earlier, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with innovative, scalable, and long-term business solutions for preventing and mitigating air pollution were encouraged to apply for the program. Among many applicants, ten diverse companies were selected.

Yatri Motorcycles, a Nepal-made electric bike company is also part of the project.

Other companies include Abhiyantriki Karmashala, Buildup Nepal Engineering, Doko Recyclers, Green Movers, Green Road Waste Management, Himalayan Naturals, Metro Gear Nepal, Pick and Drop, and Zero Circular.