BridgeStart Pakistan
Dreaming of global acceleration but never been selected? BridgeStart opens the door.
Introduction
Building upon the success of BridgeStart Pakistan, the BridgeStart Global Gateway is a new initiative designed to strengthen Pakistan’s international startup presence by directly collaborating with world-class accelerators. Through this track, BridgeStart partners with global accelerator programs to provide Pakistani startups with exclusive opportunities for international immersion, mentorship, and funding access — without requiring prior admission from startups.
The program is tailored to identify high-potential startups, match them with global accelerator partners, and facilitate their participation in specialized international growth programs curated by BridgeStart.
Benefits for Startups
Accelerator Access
Gain entry to BridgeStart’s international accelerator partners without independent application.
Tailored Global Training
Receive structured support programs curated for Pakistani startups.
Mentorship & Networking
Learn from global mentors, investors, and industry leaders. Market Expansion Opportunities – Explore product-market fit and entry strategies in global markets.
Market Expansion Opportunities
Explore product-market fit and entry strategies in global markets.
Funding Linkages
Connect with international venture capital networks and angel investors.
Visibility & Representation
Represent Pakistan’s entrepreneurial talent at global innovation hubs.
Selection Process
Application Submission
Startups apply through the online BridgeStart website, selecting the Global Gateway option.
Evaluation by Expert Committee (EC)
Applications are evaluated based on innovation, scalability, impact potential, and founder capability.
Matching with International Partner
Selected startups are matched to an appropriate global accelerator based on industry relevance and program focus.
Final Selection & Onboarding
Approved startups are notified and provided guidance for program participation, travel, and funding support.
Eligibility Criteria
- Pakistani Startup – Must be operational within Pakistan’s startup ecosystem.
- Startup Age – Less than 10 years old.
- Scalability & Innovation – Demonstrates strong growth potential, innovation, and readiness for international expansion.
- Founder Commitment – Founders must actively participate in the international program.
- Sector Focus – Priority will be given to startups in tech-driven, sustainability-led, or impact-oriented sectors (e.g., climate-tech, health-tech, AI, fintech or any other tech-enabled business).
- Note– Startups already funded under BridgeStart’s previous track are not eligible.
Program Objectives
- Strengthen International Partnerships - Forge direct collaborations between BridgeStart and top-tier global accelerators.
- Enable Global Market Readine – Equip startups with tools, mentorship, and exposure to expand internationally.
- Enhance Knowledge Transfer – Bring back global best practices to strengthen Pakistan’s startup ecosystem.
- Promote Brand Pakistan Globally – Showcase Pakistani innovation and entrepreneurship on the international stage.
Funding Mechanism
BridgeStart Global Gateway provides sponsorship to selected startups covering program participation fees, travel, accommodation and other related expenses.
Pitching Guidelines
Shortlisted startups will be invited to pitch before the Expert Committee. The pitching structure will remain similar to the existing BridgeStart guidelines:
- Business Overview & Model – 2 minutes
- Traction & KPIs – 30 seconds
- Market Expansion & Future Plans – 30 seconds
- Founder Profile & Team Strength – 30 seconds
- Goal for acceleration – 60 seconds
Apply for BridgeStart Global Gateway
Ready to take your startup global? Apply now to be part of the BridgeStart Global Gateway and access international accelerator programs curated by Ignite.
Submit your application: https://forms.gle/zA8TWwb2TBxJEkGp7,
Download the mandatory application document checklist. Click here
For inquiries: [email protected]
BridgeStart strongly encourages female-founded, climate-tech, and sustainability-led startups to apply for the Global Gateway.
Disclaimer
Participation in the BridgeStart Global Gateway is subject to evaluation and approval by the Expert Committee. Applying does not guarantee selection. Any inappropriate or threatening behaviour towards BridgeStart staff may result in permanent disqualification from all Ignite programs.