Pathfinder CITADEL has launched the second cohort of its CITADEL Jeddah Startup Challenge 2026, providing a global platform to highlight the brightest startups from Pakistan and OIC member countries. This initiative builds on the momentum of Pakistan’s innovation ecosystem showcased at the World Economic Forum Davos 2026, where the country’s entrepreneurial capabilities received international recognition.
The Jeddah Startup Challenge invites startups to showcase their solutions at the Pakistan Pavilion during the WEF Spring Meetings in Jeddah in April 2026. The application deadline is 10th February 2026, offering a limited window for founders to participate. Interested startups can submit applications through the official link here.
The challenge focuses on high-impact sectors driving technological and economic growth globally, including AI & ML, FinTech, HealthTech, Climate & GreenTech, AgriTech, DeepTech, Industry 4.0, CyberTech, and EdTech. By targeting these industries, the initiative positions startups as global innovators, emphasizing practical solutions, scalability, and cross-border collaboration. Participating founders gain mentorship from industry experts, direct access to global investors, visibility on an international platform, and guidance for entering new markets.
Pathfinder CITADEL’s initiative underscores its commitment to bridging Pakistan with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the broader international innovation ecosystem. Through this platform, Pakistani startups can demonstrate their capabilities, gain global recognition, and access funding networks to scale solutions internationally. JazzWorld, VEON’s services company in Pakistan, partners with CITADEL to provide mentorship and strategic guidance, fostering sustainable innovation and long-term capacity building.
To celebrate Pakistan’s growing innovation footprint, Pathfinder Group and CITADEL will host a Global Innovation Convergence event on Saturday, 14 February 2026, at AMAANIBAGH, Islamabad, along the Murree Expressway. The gathering will connect Pakistani innovators, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders to share insights from Davos 2026 and the Jeddah Startup Challenge.
The event will begin at 10:00 AM with Tilawat and the National Anthem, followed by an overview of the Pakistan Pavilion Davos 2026. Speakers including Dr. Salma Malik and AVM Asad Ikram will highlight projects, startup experiences, and key takeaways. Project directors Air Cdre (Retd) Khalid Banuri, Air Cdre (Retd) Farhan Ahmed, and Imran Jattala will offer perspectives on navigating the global innovation stage. A video presentation will showcase Pakistan’s innovation initiatives, followed by remarks from HE George Steiner, Ambassador of Switzerland to Pakistan, and a networking tea break.
The second session will focus on the Jeddah Startup Challenge 2026, with presentations by Sarah Tims and Uzair Alvi, followed by pitches from shortlisted startups. This segment bridges Davos’ learnings with opportunities in Jeddah and beyond. Special remarks will be delivered by HE Prof Dr Iqbal Choudhary, Mustafa (PBUH) Prize Laureate and Coordinator General, OIC COMSTECH, and concluding remarks by Mr. Ikram Sehgal will outline the broader vision for innovation and entrepreneurship through Pathfinder CITADEL and the School of Excellence. The event will close with lunch and further networking opportunities.
Security and logistics have been carefully planned for smooth access to AMAANIBAGH, with attendees advised to follow the provided road map and maintain a casual dress code. RSVPs can be submitted via Zesshan Haidry at smsisb@pathfinderp.com or +92 331 9990113. Further information and registration are available at https://bit.ly/PFGPostDavosEvent.
By combining mentorship, investment access, and international visibility, the CITADEL Jeddah Startup Challenge 2026 and Pakistan Pavilion Davos 2026 provide Pakistani and OIC startups a transformative platform to scale their innovations, forge strategic partnerships, and position the region as a hub for world-class entrepreneurial talent.
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