August 20th, 2024: The National Incubation Center for Aerospace Technologies (NICAT), in partnership with Meta, Ministry of IT & Telecommunication, and Ignite National Technology Fund, hosted the first-ever Meta Llama Pitchathon in the Asia-Pacific region. This groundbreaking event highlighted the tremendous potential of artificial intelligence (AI) through the application of Meta’s cutting-edge Llama 2 and Llama 3 models. The Pitchathon was graced by the presence of Ms. Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Minister for IT & Telecommunication, as the Chief Guest. Her participation underscored the government’s strong commitment to fostering technological advancement and innovation in Pakistan.
This Pitchathon is a testament to Pakistan’s growing capabilities in AI and technological innovation.
“This Pitchathon is a testament to Pakistan’s growing capabilities in AI and technological innovation. The government is dedicated to creating an environment that nurtures talent and encourages the development of cutting-edge solutions that address both local and global challenges. Events like these are crucial in our journey to position Pakistan as a leader in the global digital economy.”, Ms. Shaza Fatima Khawaja Minister for IT & Telecommunication. Simon Milner, Meta’s Vice President of Public Policy for the Asia-Pacific region, presented certificates to the top three finalists. Traversaal.ai was declared the winner, competing in the regional finals in Singapore in October 2024 and clinching a prize of $100,000. This prize included travel and accommodation, providing the winner with a global platform to showcase its innovation, connect with international industry leaders, and gain invaluable exposure. The success of the Meta Llama Pitchathon highlights Pakistan’s vibrant tech ecosystem and its potential to lead AI innovation.
# IGNITE SIGNS AGREEMENT WITH NETSOL TECHNOLOGIES LIMITED LED CONSORTIUM TO OPERATE NIC LAHORE
August 9th, 2024: In a significant development for Pakistan’s technology and startup ecosystem, Ignite – National Technology Fund, under the Ministry of IT & Telecom, signed an agreement with a consortium led by Netsol Technologies Limited to establish and operate the National Incubation Center (NIC) Lahore for the next five years. The consortium included key partners such as HBL, Beaconhouse National University (BNU), PlugNPlay Tech Center, Daftarkhwan, Accelerate Prosperity, UET Lahore, and WCCI Lahore. The NIC Lahore will relocate to Daftarkhwan Vogue on MM Alam Road, hosting 50 startups annually in its incubation program and 10 in its acceleration program. Each accelerated startup will receive PKR 5 million in funding from Ignite. The inclusion of PlugNPlay Tech Center as a partner provides startups access to international accelerator programs. Additionally, at least 25% of the inducted startups will be women-led, reflecting Ignite’s commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs. "We are thrilled to back the National Incubation Center Lahore as it enters an exciting new stage of growth and innovation. Our dedication to nurturing a vibrant startup ecosystem in Pakistan is demonstrated through our continuous support for incubation programs nationwide", Adeel Aijaz Shaikh, CEO Ignite. Netsol Executive Director Ayub Ghauri emphasized the consortium’s focus on cleantech and AI, aiming to foster sustainable development. Representatives from HBL, BNU, and other partners echoed these sentiments, underscoring their commitment to nurturing Pakistan’s startup ecosystem and empowering young entrepreneurs.
# LUCKY LANDMARK-LED CONSORTIUM SIGNS AGREEMENT WITH IGNITE FOR NIC KARACHI
August 1st, 2024: Lucky Landmark, part of YBG, in partnership with LMKT and Orbit Startups, has been awarded the prestigious project of managing the National Incubation Center (NIC) Karachi for the next five years by Ignite, Ministry of IT & Telecom. This significant achievement marks a new era of innovation and entrepreneurship in Pakistan. As part of Ignite’s new strategic focus, NIC Karachi will emphasize Industrial Automation, FinTech, Cyber Security, and the induction of women-led startups. Over the past six years, under LMKT’s management, NIC Karachi has become Pakistan’s largest tech incubator and startup accelerator. The center has supported 299 startups, who have created 1 million jobs, raised Rs. 9.1 billion in investments, and generated Rs. 8.7 billion in revenue. Sponsors of Lucky Landmark, the YB Group one of Pakistan’s largest conglomerates, has teamed up with LMKT, the country’s leading IT company, and Orbit Startups, an international accelerator renowned for its active investments in Pakistani startups. This collaboration promises to further enhance NIC Karachi’s impact on the startup ecosystem. “It is fantastic to continue our partnership with trusted collaborators for another five years. We are excited to witness the emergence of more startups focusing on Industrial Automation, FinTech, Cyber Security, and women-led ventures. Together, we will further strengthen Pakistan’s innovation landscape.” Adeel Aijaz Shaikh, CEO Ignite
# IGNITE SIGNS AGREEMENT WITH LMKR LED CONSORTIUM TO OPERATE NIC PESHAWAR
July 29th, 2024: Ignite – National Technology Fund, a company incorporated under the Ministry of IT & Telecom, signed an agreement with a consortium led by LMKR to operate the National Incubation Center (NIC) in Peshawar. This consortium includes prominent partners like Orbit Startups, an international investment accelerator and the most active VC in Pakistan. Other key partners include LMKT, Accelerate Prosperity, Sybrid (a Lakson Group Company) and Institute of Management Sciences, Peshawar.
We are proud to support the National Incubation Center Peshawar as it embarks on this new phase of growth and innovation. Our commitment to fostering a thriving startup ecosystem in Pakistan is reflected in our ongoing support for the National Incubation programs across the country. Adeel Aijaz Shaikh, CEO Ignite
The new chapter of NIC Peshawar is strategically supported by over 80 ecosystem partners, significantly enhancing the opportunities and resources available to NIC Peshawar startups. NIC Peshawar aims to expand horizons, embrace cutting-edge technologies and foster a global perspective. This vision will guide efforts to nurture startups that not only excel locally but also compete on the international stage.
# IGNITE NATIONAL TECHNOLOGY FUND PARTICIPATED IN GLOBAL DIGITAL ECONOMY CONFERENCE IN BEIJING CHINA SHOWCASING INNOVATIVE PAKISTAN STARTUPS
July 2nd, 2024: Ignite National Technology Fund participated in the Global Digital Economy Conference (GDEC) 2024, held in Beijing, China from July 2 to 5, 2024. The event brought together thought leaders, innovators, and industry experts from across the world to discuss the future of the digital economy, with a focus on emerging technologies and entrepreneurial ecosystems. The showcased startups represented the innovation and technical prowess emerging from Pakistan, gaining exposure to international investors, partners, and government officials. Their participation highlighted Pakistan’s growing role as a key player in the global tech landscape, offering solutions that can contribute to digital advancements worldwide. The Global Digital Economy Conference 2024 focused on key topics such as digital transformation, innovation-driven development, and cross-border collaboration, providing a robust platform for dialogue on how countries can harness digital technologies to drive sustainable growth. Ignite’s participation further reinforced Pakistan’s commitment to advancing its digital economy, while building bridges with global partners in the technology space.
# IGNITE CELEBRATES INNOVATION AND EXCELLENCE IN NATIONAL GRASSROOTS ICT RESEARCH INITIATIVE
July 3rd, 2024: The Prize Distribution Ceremony of the National Championship of Final Year Projects, under the National Grassroots ICT Research Initiative (NGIRI), was held, celebrating the remarkable achievements of undergraduate students in ICT-related disciplines. Since its inception in 2012, the NGIRI program has been pivotal in promoting research, development, and innovation at the grassroots level by providing financial support to exceptional Final Year Projects (FYP) from both public and private sector degree awarding institutions. To date, the NGIRI program has funded an impressive 7,115 FYPs with disbursements amounting to Rs. 384.24 million. This initiative has nurtured an environment of creativity and technical advancement among the youth, propelling the nation towards a brighter, technologically advanced future. Capt. (Retd.) Muhammad Mahmood, Secretary IT & Telecom, graced the occasion as the chief guest. “The National Grassroots ICT Research Initiative has been instrumental in harnessing the creative potential of our young minds. By supporting their innovative projects, we are not only fostering a culture of research and development but also paving the way for a technologically empowered Pakistan.” Capt. (Retd.) Muhammad Mahmood, Secretary IT & Telecom “The NGIRI program has been a cornerstone in promoting grassroots innovation and development. By providing financial support to these promising projects, we are investing in the future leaders of our ICT industry.”, Adeel Aijaz Shaikh, CEO Ignite A cash prize of Rs. 500,000 was awarded to the winning team from the National University of Technology (NUTECH), Islamabad, for their innovative project, Bionic Leg for Transfemoral Amputees. The first runner-up, Mirpur University of Science and Technology (MUST), received prize of Rs. 350,000 for their project, Non-Invasive Blood Glucose Monitor (NIGMO). While the second runner-up position was secured by Air University, earning a cash prize of Rs. 200,000 for their project: Continuous Non-Invasive Glucometer. The ceremony concluded with the distribution of prizes to the top-performing projects, recognizing their outstanding contributions to the field of ICT.
# IGNITE SHOWCASED PROMISING PAKISTANI STARTUPS AT LONDON TECH WEEK 2024
June 10th, 2024: Ignite National Technology Fund, showcased country’s innovative startups at London Tech Week 2024, held from June 10-14, 2024. The event provided a global platform for Pakistani entrepreneurs to present their cutting-edge solutions across sectors such as fintech, edtech, healthtech, and artificial intelligence, gaining exposure to international investors, industry leaders, and technology experts. During the week-long event, Ignite-supported startups demonstrating the potential of Pakistan’s growing tech ecosystem. Their participation underscored the country’s capacity for innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship, as they engaged in insightful discussions and formed strategic partnerships with global players. “London Tech Week provided an incredible opportunity for Pakistani startups to shine on the global stage. The innovations showcased have the potential to disrupt industries and create lasting impact, not only locally but also internationally.” Adeel Aijaz Shaikh, CEO Ignite The startups participation further strengthened Ignite’s mission to support and accelerate Pakistan’s entrepreneurial landscape, encouraging collaboration and investment from international markets.
# ROADSHOWS HELD FOR CENTER OF EXCELLENCE IN GAMING AND ANIMATION (CEGA) AND VIRTUAL PRODUCTION STUDIO (VPS)
June 7th, 2024: Ignite, conducted a series of roadshows for its two initiatives, Center of Excellence in Gaming and Animation (CEGA) and the Virtual Production Studio (VPS). These roadshows, held in key cities across the country, served as an opportunity for local and international stakeholders to gain insight into the scope, vision, and technical requirements of these groundbreaking initiatives.
Mr. Adeel Aijaz Shaikh, CEO Ignite shared his views on Ignite’s initiatives while Mr. Bilal Abbasi, GM Projects Ignite dilated upon the program design and features of both CEGA and VPS besides conducting an extensive Q&A session.
Ignite National Technology Fund is dedicated to promoting technological innovation and entrepreneurship in Pakistan. By supporting initiatives in the gaming, animation, and multimedia, Ignite aims to harness the potential of Pakistani youth and drive economic growth through these two sectors.
# IGNITE NATIONAL TECHNOLOGY FUND SHOWCASED PAKISTANI STARTUPS AT GITEX AFRICA 2024
May 29th, 2024: Ignite National Technology Fund represented Pakistan's burgeoning tech ecosystem at GITEX Africa in Morocco held from 29-31 May, 2024, showcasing an impressive lineup of Pakistani startups to a global audience. This premier technology event brought together innovators from across the world, offering a unique platform for the Pakistani tech community to highlight their cutting-edge solutions in fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), fintech, healthtech, agri-tech, and e-commerce. Through Ignite’s support, Pakistani startups were provided the opportunity to exhibit their products and services, gaining international exposure and establishing valuable connections with potential investors, collaborators, and industry leaders. The startups were lauded for their innovation and entrepreneurship, with many attracting interest from global markets eager to tap into Pakistan’s talent and ingenuity.
GITEX Africa 2024 was an incredible opportunity for our startups to demonstrate the depth of innovation happening in Pakistan. The international attention they received is a testament to the world-class talent and solutions emerging from our country. Ignite will continue to empower startups to take Pakistan’s technology landscape to new heights. Adeel Aijaz Shaikh, CEO Ignite
# IGNITE SHOWCASES STARTUP EXCELLENCE AT 25TH ITCN ASIA
Ignite National Technology Fund, showcased 10 innovative startups from its National Incubation Centers (NICs) at the 25th ITCN Asia, held from August 27-29, 2024, at Karachi Expo Center. The event, inaugurated by Ms. Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Minister of State for IT & Telecom, highlighted advancements in IT and telecommunications, emphasizing the government's vision to digitize the economy and drive sustainable growth. The Ignite pavilion attracted significant attention, featuring startups from diverse industries, including e-commerce, healthtech, edtech, robotics, and AI. The startups included Podvare (Internet of Things, NIC Hyderabad), Gojo Pakistan (Transportation, NIC Hyderabad), BreatheIO (Health Tech, NIC Islamabad), Kalam4Solutions (AgriTech, NICAT), Creeco (Pvt.) Ltd. (Agritech, NIC Faisalabad), MachVista (Farm Mechanisation, NIC Faisalabad), Pamico Technologies (AgriTech, NIC Faisalabad), RedMarker Systems (EdTech, NICAT), Scents Rush (E-Commerce, NIC Quetta) and Ziftek (Ed-Tech, NIC Quetta). Ignite's CEO, Adeel Aijaz Shaikh, underscored the organization's success in fostering over 1,521 startups through its incubation network and its commitment to advancing innovation and entrepreneurship. Ignite's participation underscored its mission to propel Pakistan's entrepreneurial talent onto the global stage, opening new opportunities for growth and collaboration.
# ZIFTEK SHINES BRIGHT AWARD-WINNING STARTUP OF NIC QUETTA
Ziftek, a standout startup from NIC Quetta, has made remarkable strides in empowering youth across Pakistan. Co-founded by Hammad Ullah Kakar, the company’s innovative e-learning platform combines online education, physical training, co-working spaces, and expert mentorship for comprehensive skill development. On August 12th, 2024, during the International Youth Day celebration, Hammad Ullah Kakar was honored with the prestigious Prime Minister’s Youth Excellence Award in Entrepreneurship from Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Mr. Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif. This award recognized Ziftek's significant contributions to empowering the youth of Balochistan among a total of 17 recipients from across Pakistan. Ziftek's journey is defined by its commitment to bridging the education gap, fostering talent, and creating opportunities for the next generation. With a focus on holistic learning and growth, Ziftek is rapidly becoming a game-changer in the education and skill development sector, driving social impact and transforming future across the country.
# internee.pk HYDERABAD'S TRIPLE THREAT TAKES THE TECH WORLD BY STORM
Talk about a victory lap! Internee.pk, our homegrown hero from NIC Hyderabad's Cohort 5, is on an absolute tear. These folks aren't just participating - they're dominating every stage they step on. First up, they charmed the pants off the crowd at Google Cloud's Startup Competition, snagging the coveted People's Choice Award. But why stop at one when you can have three? They stormed SEE Pakistan - WSC 2024, claiming the top spot in Education. And just to prove it wasn't a fluke, they rounded off their winning streak at Aptech Learning's Vision 2024. Another day, another trophy for the Internee.pk trophy case. From Google to national expos, Internee.pk is putting Hyderabad on the map and showing the world that innovation knows no boundaries. Watch out, tech world - the underdogs from Hyderabad are here to stay!
# NICAT STARTUP ‘DYNASYS’ ACHIEVES DOUBLE TRIUMPH AT HBL PASHA ICT AWARDS
National Incubation Center for Aerospace Technologies (NICAT) startup ‘DynaSys’ achieved a remarkable feat, securing not one but two prestigious HBL Pasha ICT Awards 2024. The company's innovative work on the Internet of Things (IoT) and its status as a thriving startup have been duly recognized. This dual victory is a testament to DynaSys' dedication to pushing the boundaries of technology and its potential to shape the future. With these awards, DynaSys has solidified its position as a leading force in the Pakistan tech industry. As DynaSys continues to grow and expand its reach, it is poised to make even greater strides in the years to come.
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