The International Trade Centre (ITC), with support from the European Union and the United Nations, has launched Phase II of its AgriInnovate Programme, a nationwide initiative focused on nurturing agricultural innovation in Pakistan. This latest phase aims to support agri-tech startups and small businesses in Sindh and Balochistan, helping them adopt digital tools, build scalable models, and thrive in modern markets. The programme is part of the broader Growth for Rural Advancement and Sustainable Progress (GRASP) initiative, which seeks to drive inclusive economic development in rural regions.
AgriInnovate Phase II is open to early-stage startups, growth-stage businesses, and enterprises looking to digitize their operations. The programme is structured around three streams—incubation, acceleration, and an e-commerce bootcamp—allowing participants to receive support tailored to their specific stage of development. This inclusive approach makes the programme accessible to a wide range of businesses, from emerging agri-tech entrepreneurs to more established MSMEs eager to embrace innovation.
With a focus on fostering long-term innovation capacity, the programme will also work to develop local support ecosystems by training innovation coaches, startup advisors, and business development professionals. This strategy is designed to create lasting impact beyond the programme’s immediate participants, strengthening the broader entrepreneurial landscape in both provinces. In addition to capacity-building, AgriInnovate offers a self-paced Learning Management System (LMS) to provide entrepreneurs with digital skills training, access to essential business tools, and a curriculum aimed at boosting both operational effectiveness and growth readiness.
Digital transformation sits at the heart of the AgriInnovate Programme, with an emphasis on enabling startups and businesses to go online, adopt e-commerce, and compete in digitally connected markets. ITC representatives have expressed optimism about the transformative potential of the initiative, noting that agriculture remains a critical pillar of Pakistan’s economy but one that is yet to fully benefit from the power of technology and innovation. Through targeted mentorship, market linkages, and support systems, AgriInnovate aims to close that gap.
Applications for the programme are now open, and agri-entrepreneurs from Sindh and Balochistan are encouraged to apply through the official application portal. The programme presents an important opportunity for those working in agriculture to strengthen their business models and leverage technology for growth. With international partners backing the initiative, AgriInnovate stands as a key milestone in Pakistan’s journey towards agricultural modernization and inclusive entrepreneurship.
As the global agri-tech landscape evolves, Pakistan’s agricultural startups have a chance to take center stage, thanks to programmes like AgriInnovate that prioritize innovation, sustainability, and digital empowerment.
