The National Incubation Center Islamabad, the first to open its doors in Pakistan, started its first cohort early 2017. Through the year, we’ve seen the progress with the other National Incubation Centers prepping in full swing, with the official opening of the Lahore center earlier this month and the Peshawar edition to launch shortly thereafter.
Starting 27th December, the center is accepting applications for its 3rd Cohort. Startups from across the country are invited to apply to the largest incubation program in Pakistan. The program was launched under the public – private partnership of Ministry of Information Technology and Telecom (MOITT), Ignite (formerly National ICT R&D Fund), Jazz and Teamup.
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The National Incubation Center is home to over forty startups in the heart of capital city of Pakistan, providing them with world class facility, mentorship, incubation and acceleration programs.
International and local partners including FbStart by Facebook, Hult Prize, Invest2Innovate, Acumen Fund, Katapult Accelerator and IBM are also working with NIC to drive economic growth through innovation in information and communication technology (ICT).
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Startups from all genres including; biotech, fintech, IoT, are encouraged to apply for the program. This 12 month program is focused on actionable training where startups are mentored by experts and thought leaders from across industries. The state of the art facility fosters innovation, growth through one – to – one mentor sessions, tech talks, and allows startups to connect with some of the best industry veterans. The National Incubation program also provides startups with access to grants, VC network and digital payment solutions.
Startups applying to the NIC, undergo a rigorous evaluation process and are selected based on the criteria defined by the NIC panel. Details of these can be found on the NIC website.
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Startups are encouraged to participate in local and are highlighted in international events. Some of the existing startups i.e. Madhunt, Lets Innovate, Mapalytics and Anzen at the NIC made their mark and showcased their products at the 4FYN held in Barcelona in February, this year.
Sharing his thoughts on the recent successes, Zouhair Khaliq, Co-founder, Teamup, and a Mentor at the NIC, commented;
“2017 has been a year of innovation, ground breaking technologies and change. The year, witnessed the launch of the first ever NIC, marking the success of a first of its kind public – private partnership, opening doors for pools of talented young entrepreneurs to become a part of the entrepreneurial eco – system. As we move into our second year of inviting applications for our third cohort, we encourage all the young budding entrepreneurs to join our thriving entrepreneurial community here at the National Incubation Center, who will continue to spark creativity in innovation and become the reason for the change they believe in.”
The Jazz xlr8 program has been instrumental in laying the foundation for a sustainable technology ecosystem, and in providing resources and expertise to help young entrepreneurs fulfill their potential. Jazz xlr8 works in-line with Vimpelcom’s ‘Make Your Mark’ initiative, which aims to help shape the future generation through exposure and seed funds.
The Jazz XlR8 program offers startups at the NIC with access to the Jazz user base, a global network of mentors, and its digital platforms. Information on NIC, the application process, and details of the program can be found on: http://nicpakistan.pk/
Image source: NIC
