NIC Karachi proudly announced the graduation of 20 startups from Cohorts 8 and 9. The graduation ceremony was a momentous occasion celebrating entrepreneurial achievements and took place at the National Incubation Center, Karachi in collaboration with Ignite and Ministry of IT and Telecommunication.
NIC Karachi has emerged as a driving force in Pakistan’s entrepreneurship scene, empowering innovative entrepreneurs through mentorship, training, and access to funding. With over 299 startups incubated, 99,000+ jobs created, and a remarkable Rs. 7.9 Billion raised in investments over the last five years, NIC Karachi has played a vital role in shaping the country’s startup ecosystem.
Syed Amin ul Haque, Federal Minister for IT and Telecom, commended the efforts of the graduating startups, saying, “NIC Karachi’s graduation ceremony is a testament to the dedication and resilience of Pakistani entrepreneurs. Karachi, being the financial hub of the country, has witnessed the hard work of NIC Karachi startups as they strive to make a mark in the tech industry. I wish them the best of luck as they embark on their journey of driving economic growth, creating job opportunities, and making Pakistan proud on the global stage.’
Asim Shahryar Husain, CEO Ignite, expressed his delight, stating, “It is great to see another batch of twenty startups graduating from NIC Karachi. I hope many of them become successful startups in future. NICs should also conduct investor education workshops to educate local investors about the value and returns made by investing in high growth and profitable startups of Pakistan. This will give confidence to foreign investors also to partner with local investors for foreign investment in Pakistani startups.”
Atif Rais Khan, CEO of LMKT, reaffirmed the organization’s unwavering commitment to nurturing the startup ecosystem, saying, “NIC Karachi, in partnership with Ignite and MoiTT, has successfully fostered an environment that encourages entrepreneurship and innovation. LMKT is committed to supporting the startup ecosystem in Pakistan, and we strive to empower Pakistani startups, catalyzing innovation, and contributing to the overall economic prosperity of the country.”
Faizan Laghari, Project Director NIC Karachi, emphasized the paramount significance of the graduation, stating, “NIC Karachi takes immense pride in witnessing these startups reach this significant milestone. The unwavering support and mentorship provided during their transformative journey have played a pivotal role in their development, and we are excited to see them thrive in the entrepreneurial landscape. As these startups graduate, we also embrace the responsibility of being the flag bearers of incubation in this country, continuing our mission to empower and uplift innovative entrepreneurs across Pakistan.”
As these startups graduate from NIC Karachi, they join a network of successful entrepreneurs, poised to make a significant impact in the dynamic landscape of Pakistan’s startup ecosystem. NIC Karachi remains committed to fostering innovation, supporting entrepreneurs, and contributing to the socio-economic development of Pakistan.