Youth Entrepreneurship in Bhutan: Building Pathways to Job Creation

Analyzing why Bhutan faces a youth unemployment challenge as its economy diversifies, this report explores how supporting entrepreneurship could unlock productivity and drive resilient economic growth. The report sets out issues facing Bhutan’s slow-growing youth entrepreneurship sector as it struggles with low levels of mentorship and underdeveloped financial markets. It shows how by adopting policies that consider the entire lifecycle of a business, and targeting education and financial support, Bhutan can transform entrepreneurship, empower young people, and boost innovation. Drawing on survey data, international benchmarking, and insights from local entrepreneurs, the report sets out how Bhutan could shift focus from start-up promotion to business development, modernize skills, and foster a supportive ecosystem. It highlights how targeted, stage-specific support could make youth entrepreneurship a cornerstone of Bhutan’s inclusive growth strategy.