Tim Gocher OBE, founder and CEO of Dolma Impact Fund, leads Nepal’s largest international fund manager, overseeing USD 108.56 million in investments. The fund serves as a catalyst for job creation and sustainable development, driving impactful change by channeling institutional capital into Nepal’s key growth sectors. Committed to aligning with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 2030, Dolma Impact Fund pioneers investments that fuel long-term economic progress and social upliftment.
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The Genesis of Dolma Impact Fund
Gocher’s journey with Dolma Impact Fund began in 2003 when he first visited Nepal. He was deeply inspired by the resilience and ingenuity of local entrepreneurs, who, despite limited resources, showcased a level of skill and determination comparable to business leaders in major global markets. Recognizing Nepal’s untapped potential and the absence of impact investing initiatives—despite the growing need for sustainable capital—Gocher saw an opportunity to introduce transformative, long-term investments.
Following Nepal’s 2006 peace accord and 2013 democratic elections, political stability reinforced his belief that the country was ready for sustained economic expansion. Though challenges such as high unemployment and reliance on remittances persisted, the environment was ripe for investments that could support local businesses and foster economic independence. This vision laid the foundation for Dolma Impact Fund, designed to bridge Nepal’s financing gap and drive systemic change.
The Role of Impact Investing in Nepal
Gocher emphasizes that impact investing is crucial to Nepal’s economic development, as it fosters both financial returns and social progress. By investing in renewable energy, healthcare, technology, and manufacturing, Dolma Impact Fund addresses Nepal’s pressing challenges, particularly unemployment.
By creating quality jobs, Dolma reduces the need for labour migration, keeping families together and strengthening communities. These investments not only support businesses but also build a track record of success, attracting more capital into Nepal and fostering economic resilience. Through impact investing, Nepal gains sustainable job creation, economic diversification, and innovation, setting the stage for long-term prosperity.
Key Achievements: Transforming Nepal’s Economic Landscape
Under Gocher’s leadership, Dolma Impact Fund has created over 11,600 jobs across Nepal and other developing markets. These jobs primarily stem from investments in technology, healthcare, renewable energy, and manufacturing, sectors that drive both economic stability and social progress.
Dolma has pioneered renewable energy investments to harness Nepal’s vast hydropower potential, positioning the country as a leader in clean energy production. A landmark success within Dolma’s portfolio is Fusemachines, a Nepali-origin AI company, which is set to become the first Nepali-American company to list on NASDAQ—a groundbreaking achievement that underscores the global potential of Nepal’s tech industry.
To further its commitment to sustainability, Dolma launched the Dolma Climate Fund (DCF), a USD 200 million initiative targeting climate change mitigation through renewable energy investments. The initiative is expected to generate over 22,000 new jobs, improve local infrastructure, and significantly reduce carbon emissions.
The Most Personally Rewarding Experience
As Dolma Impact Fund celebrates its 10th anniversary, Gocher reflects on his most fulfilling experience: job creation. With 3,000 young Nepalese emigrating daily in search of better opportunities, Dolma’s creation of 11,600 jobs represents real families staying together—a mission deeply personal to him.
Each job created means one less family separated due to economic necessity. That impact is what makes this journey truly meaningful for Gocher. By fostering employment, innovation, and sustainable investments, Dolma Impact Fund is shaping Nepal’s economic future, proving that impact-driven capital can fuel lasting growth, resilience, and prosperity.
