Accountability, Innovation, Team & Time
Punit Agrawal
Founder, Well Bell
Director, Bageshwori Wires and Ruchika Trade
Punit Agrawal, founder of the FMCG brand Well Bell and Director of Bageshwori Wires and Ruchika Trade, is a second-generation entrepreneur. An economics graduate, he combines academic knowledge with practical experience to drive growth and sustainability in his ventures.
He is also on the Confederation of Nepalese Industries Young Entrepreneurs Forum (CNIYEF) board serving as the Finance Chair where he plays a key role in shaping financial strategies within the organisation.
What are the key initiatives that you have led as CNIYEF Board Member for three years?
In my term, I have played a key role in organising two editions of the Startup Fest, Nepal’s largest entrepreneurial event, worked closely with the government on startup and startup loan policies, and participated in Nepal’s national budget and policy discussions alongside CNI leadership.
As CNIYEF’s Finance Chair, how do you ensure financial sustainability and growth within the organisation?
I have focused on strengthening the fiscal framework through rigorous budget monitoring, pre-budgeting for each chair, and quarterly financial analysis. CNIYEF is on a mission to expand across all seven provinces which has required us to diversify revenue streams for sustained operations. As we move forward, my priority is robust financial reporting to ensure growth on a solid foundation, not excessive leverage.
As the former Startup Chair, how have you seen Nepal’s startup scene evolve, and what trends will shape its future?
I witnessed significant growth fuelled by better government policies, increased funding access and incubation centres. What is promising is the diversification of startups, emerging not just from urban hubs but also from rural areas and various industries. The rise of digital transactions and a stronger legal framework will be crucial in shaping Nepal’s startup ecosystem.
Drawing on your experience in family business, investments and entrepreneurship, what is your approach to driving success across diverse industries?
Growing up in a business family instilled resilience and long-term vision, which my entrepreneurial journey further reinforced. I went full-time into my business during the Covid 19 pandemic using this time to reflect and research. One of the strong philosophies I came across was that of Jim Collins, i.e., “If we get the right people on the bus, the right people in the right seats, and the wrong people off the bus, then we'll figure out how to take it someplace great.” Since then, I have focused on building a capable and empowered team. With the right checks and balances based on data orientation, we have been able to move towards better destinations. Being one of the ‘drivers’ of the team, my business philosophy is anchored in four key principles: accountability, innovation, belief in the team, and most importantly, time management.
How do you assess the competitive market in Nepal for Well Bell and position your products globally?
Well Bell Foods started as a passion project, driven by my desire to create a niche within our family business. Despite the competitive FMCG industry in Nepal, we have seen a growing demand for high-quality, sustainable products. Nepali customers are opting for healthier food choices without compromising on taste. Well Bell Foods has capitalised on this trend, gaining market share with products like our chocolate millet muesli, a favourite among health-conscious consumers. Global expansion is like playing in the major league. Our goal is to blend local flavours with international standards, positioning Well Bell as a competitive Nepali brand on the global stage.
