The Institute of Cultural Affairs – Nepal (ICA-N) was established in March 1998 in Kathmandu, Nepal as an autonomous, non-governmental organisation registered with the Government of Nepal and Social Welfare Council, Nepal. Since 1998, ICA-N has grown rapidly, focusing on research, training, facilitation and community development activities. ICA's activities are based on participation. The organisation is dedicated to building people's capacities whether they are rural village inhabitants or business executives in public training courses.

ICA International is a global network of ICAs working worldwide in both the developing and developed countries. The Institute of Cultural Affairs has over 40 years of experience of building human capacities through participation, training and facilitation activities and setting up community development programmes. The ICA is concerned with the 'human factor in development', strengthening human capabilities in the public, NGOs and private sectors. Institute of Cultural Affairs – International located in Montreal Canada.  The ICA-I has category II Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council, liaison status with FAO, working relation with WHO and consultative status with UNICEF. It is a member of CIVICUS and has served on the NGO Consultative Group of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).