NIC Karachi celebrates graduation of its cohort 14 startups

KARACHI: The National Incubation Center Karachi (NIC Karachi), an Ignite initiative under the Ministry of IT & Telecom, celebrated a milestone with the graduation of 25 startups from its 14th cohort.

Addressing the graduation ceremony, Syed Azfar Hussain, Project Director at NIC Karachi, highlighted the achievements of NIC Karachi’s Cohort 14 startups and acknowledged the support of the council members, and other stakeholders throughout the incubation journey. He noted that witnessing the startups’ progress over the past year was a source of immense pride, emphasizing that community building, peer learning, and collaboration are among the most valuable aspects of an incubation program.

He also underscored the diversity of the 25 graduating startups, reflecting a broad range of talent, regional representation, and entrepreneurial journeys.

Dr. Danish Ur Rehman Khan, Technical Assistant to the Vice Chancellor at NED University of Engineering and Technology, expressed pride in NIC Karachi’s journey and acknowledged the contributions of the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication, Ignite – National Technology Fund, and the NIC Karachi team in establishing and sustaining the initiative. Reflecting on its early days, he noted that what began as a vision to create a supportive environment for entrepreneurs had evolved into a thriving incubation ecosystem. Despite challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the initiative remained committed to supporting startups and fostering entrepreneurship in Pakistan.

In his closing remarks, Ali Rashid, Special Assistant to the Sindh Chief Minister for Science, Information and Technology, and Chief Guest at the ceremony appreciated the efforts of the graduating startups. He highlighted the growing opportunities available to entrepreneurs in an increasingly digital economy, where artificial intelligence and online platforms have made learning, skill development, and access to international markets more accessible.

Ali Rashid reaffirmed the Government of Sindh’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurship, encouraging startups to engage with government stakeholders, connect with local and international investors, and explore opportunities for collaboration. He urged the founders to remain positive, recognise emerging opportunities, and continue building businesses that contribute to Pakistan’s economic growth.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026