The Greater New York Nepali Chamber of Commerce (GNYNCC), established to unify and strengthen Nepali-owned businesses across New York and surrounding areas, has been playing an increasingly significant role in supporting small and medium-sized entrepreneurs, according to its president, Pradeep Shrestha.
In an interview, Shrestha said the chamber was formed out of a clear need to bring Nepali business owners under one umbrella, particularly as many operate in a complex environment shaped by differing state and city regulations, language barriers, and limited access to institutional resources.
“Running a business in a foreign country with a different language, legal system, and culture is challenging—especially for first-generation immigrants,” Shrestha said. “Individually, it is difficult to communicate with government agencies or access timely information, but through an organization, our collective voice becomes stronger.”
Building a Business Network
Shrestha emphasized that the chamber’s primary goal is to create a strong professional network among Nepali entrepreneurs who often lack sufficient connections despite operating in similar sectors.
“Many Nepali business owners came from different parts of Nepal and were running various types of businesses here, but there was little coordination or familiarity among them,” he said. “We saw the potential for mutual support, which led to the formation of this chamber.”
Since its establishment, the chamber has worked collaboratively with city and state agencies, as well as other business organizations, to provide members with essential information and resources.
Services and Achievements
The chamber has organized workshops and seminars covering key aspects of business operations, including banking, taxation, and regulatory compliance. It also offers guidance to new entrepreneurs on company registration, opening bank accounts, understanding state-specific policies, and navigating lease agreements.
“Our focus is to make sure members are well-informed and equipped to run their businesses effectively,” Shrestha said.
Challenges Facing Nepali Entrepreneurs
According to Shrestha, language barriers remain one of the most pressing challenges for first-generation Nepali business owners, often limiting their access to city services and financial systems.
He also pointed to recent changes in U.S. federal policies affecting business loans for immigrants, which have made it more difficult for some entrepreneurs to secure investment capital.
“Many business owners are still unfamiliar with banking systems and evolving regulations, which adds another layer of difficulty,” he noted.
Advice for New Immigrants
Shrestha advised aspiring entrepreneurs to ensure they have legal residency status before making investments and to avoid entering unfamiliar industries without proper knowledge or trusted partners.
“Do not invest heavily in areas where you lack experience,” he said. “Networking is crucial—it helps build trust and opens doors to collaboration.”
Connecting to Mainstream Markets
To integrate Nepali businesses into the broader U.S. economy, the chamber has been building partnerships with larger organizations such as the Queens Chamber of Commerce and the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce.
“We prioritize networking and collaboration to connect our members with mainstream business communities,” Shrestha said.
Nationwide Expansion Plans
Looking beyond New York, the chamber is preparing to host a “Nepalese American Entrepreneurs Conference” in July, aimed at bringing together Nepali business leaders from across the United States. The event will focus on knowledge-sharing, investment opportunities, and fostering partnerships.
Further details are expected to be announced following the chamber’s second anniversary celebration.
Personal Journey and Message
Reflecting on his own journey, Shrestha cited language, capital, and regulatory understanding as the biggest hurdles he faced after arriving in the United States. Originally from a remote area in Gorkha, Nepal, he was inspired to pursue business from a young age, influenced by his family’s entrepreneurial background.
For Nepalis aspiring to build a future abroad, Shrestha underscored the importance of persistence and choosing a field aligned with one’s interests and experience.
“There is no such thing as a small or big business,” he said. “Stay committed, be patient, and do not give up—success takes time.”
The interview was originally published in Khasokhas’ 14th anniversary special edition.
Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
