Fourteen companies and individuals have expressed interest in establishing e-Rozgar centers, a government initiative to support freelancers and startups. This program, run by the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), aims to create 250 dedicated workspaces across the country.
Cities like Islamabad, Sialkot, Gujranwala, Lahore, and Quetta are among the areas where potential e-Rozgar centers might emerge. PSEB has completed initial evaluations of the applications and will forward them to banks for loan consideration.
Private banks will offer loans of up to Rs. 10 million to each approved applicant, with the Pakistan Software Export Board covering the interest, making them effectively interest-free for the recipients. These loans fall under the Prime Minister Youth Loan Scheme, prioritizing e-Rozgar center development.
“This program is designed to support Pakistan’s growing digital workforce,” said a PSEB spokesperson. “E-Rozgar centers will provide dedicated workspaces for freelancers and startups, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.”
Building owners selected for the program can leverage these interest-free loans to cover setup costs. This public-private partnership between PSEB and banks is a critical step towards empowering Pakistan’s digital economy.