The government of Pakistan has announced a major initiative aimed at empowering freelancers and startups through the launch of the National Co-Working Space Program (NCSP). Under this program, interest-free financing of up to Rs. 10 million will be offered for the establishment of 250 co-working spaces across the country. The initiative, led by the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), seeks to create a network of modern workspaces that will foster innovation, collaboration, and economic inclusion within Pakistan’s expanding digital ecosystem.
According to the Expression of Interest (EOI) issued by PSEB, the program is designed to enhance the productivity of freelancers and entrepreneurs by providing access to high-quality infrastructure under a public-private partnership model. Each co-working center will have a minimum capacity of 100 seats and will be equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to meet the evolving needs of Pakistan’s growing freelance and startup communities. These workspaces will act as hubs of innovation, enabling digital professionals to collaborate, share ideas, and participate more effectively in the global digital economy. The loan facility will be available for establishing new NCSP centers and can be processed through the Prime Minister Youth Loan Scheme or via commercial banks.
This initiative comes at a crucial time when Pakistan faces rising unemployment and underemployment among its youth. According to Gallup Pakistan, 8.9 million young people are currently unemployed, while 21.8 million are neither in education, employment, nor training. In this context, the NCSP aims to harness Pakistan’s freelancing potential, which continues to attract global demand. By promoting co-working infrastructure and skill-based entrepreneurship, the government aims to transform the freelance sector into a structured, sustainable, and high-value industry.
The co-working centers, to be established across major cities and regions of Pakistan, will not only provide affordable and accessible workspaces but also serve as incubators for knowledge sharing and collaboration. They will support a range of activities, from networking events to mentorship and training programs, helping startups and freelancers connect with investors and industry experts. Moreover, the centers will help bridge the gap between digital talent and market opportunities, particularly for women and youth in underserved areas.
Any existing co-working space or underutilized public or privately owned building can be converted into an NCSP center, provided it meets the eligibility requirements and infrastructure standards set by PSEB. Each center will be managed and maintained by its applicants, ensuring sustainability and community-driven operation. By encouraging private participation and providing interest-free financing, the government aims to create a self-sustaining network of virtual technology hubs that contribute to national growth.
This initiative highlights Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening its digital economy by supporting freelancers and startups with both infrastructure and financing. Through the NCSP, PSEB continues to play a central role in enabling technology-driven entrepreneurship and building a more inclusive digital Pakistan.
Follow the SPIN IDG WhatsApp Channel for updates across the Smart Pakistan Insights Network covering all of Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.
