Gobi Partners has launched the $50 million Techxila Fund II to fuel the growth of Pakistan’s burgeoning startup ecosystem. This announcement was made during the Pakistan Investment Conference in Shanghai, a significant event that underscores the country’s commitment to attracting foreign investment and driving economic growth.
Techxila Fund II will focus on investing in early-stage startups operating in sectors such as fintech, e-commerce, health tech, logistics, and SaaS. The fund aims to provide capital, mentorship, and strategic guidance to promising entrepreneurs, empowering them to scale their businesses and create positive social and economic impact.
Building on the success of Techxila Fund I, which supported 22 startups and generated significant economic and social impact, the new fund aims to further strengthen Pakistan’s startup ecosystem. The startups backed by Techxila Fund I have collectively impacted over 3.2 million low-income households, generated $245 million in revenue, and issued $54 million in loans in 2023.
To further solidify its commitment to supporting Pakistan’s startup ecosystem, Gobi Partners has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Bank of Punjab (BoP). This partnership will provide startups with access to equity investments, preferential financing, and improved credit access. Additionally, the MoU includes mentorship programs and tailored financial products to support the growth of these businesses.
Maryam Nawaz, the Chief Minister of Punjab, expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative, stating that the fund would boost innovation, create jobs, and enhance Pakistan’s tech sector. Zafar Masud, CEO of BoP, emphasized the importance of this collaboration in fostering a thriving startup ecosystem. Thomas G. Tsao, Chairman of Gobi Partners, reiterated the firm’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurs and driving long-term economic growth in the region.