NIC Karachi Graduates 30 Startups and Celebrates 1st Anniversary, Driving Pakistan’s Digital Economy
NIC Karachi marked a milestone with the graduation of 30 startups from Cohort 12 and its 1st anniversary, driving Pakistan’s digital economy forward.
Karachi – September 23, 2025 – The National Incubation Center Karachi (NIC Karachi), powered by Ignite under the Ministry of IT & Telecom, celebrated two major milestones: the graduation of 30 startups from its 12th Cohort and its 1st anniversary.
The event brought together government leaders, investors, entrepreneurs, and ecosystem builders, reinforcing Pakistan’s journey toward a digital and knowledge-based economy.
Government Reaffirms Support for Startups
Federal Minister for IT & Telecom, Ms. Shaza Fatima Khawaja, attended as Chief Guest. She praised the achievements of young entrepreneurs, saying:
“The graduation of startups from NIC Karachi shows the talent and resilience of Pakistan’s youth. These innovators are creating jobs, disrupting industries, and positioning Pakistan on the global stage. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, the government remains fully committed to empowering youth and building a Digital Nation.”
Also present were Mr. Rafique Ahmed Buriro, CEO Ignite, and Mr. Asim Ishaq Khan, Vice President LMKT, alongside top industry leaders, investors, and ecosystem stakeholders.
NIC Karachi’s Growing Impact
Since its launch, NIC Karachi has incubated over 375 startups, created 1 million+ jobs, generated PKR 10 billion in revenue, and attracted PKR 12 billion in investment.
The center, run by LMKT, YBG, and Orbit Startups, provides free incubation programs, mentorship, investor access, legal and financial advisory, and advanced labs in Fintech, Industrial Automation, and Media.
CEO Ignite, Mr. Rafique Ahmed Buriro, emphasized:
“NIC Karachi is proof that strong public-private partnerships can transform Pakistan’s startup ecosystem. Ignite will continue to support innovation across the country.”
Mr. Asim Ishaq Khan, Vice President LMKT, added:
“Cohort 12’s achievements show that with the right ecosystem, mentorship, and investor access, Pakistani startups can compete globally.”
30 Startups Ready to Scale Globally
The graduation ceremony celebrated the creativity and resilience of 30 startups from Cohort 12, many of which are now ready to expand across local and international markets. Alumni success stories were also shared, highlighting how NIC Karachi’s ecosystem leads to job creation, revenue growth, and global opportunities.
Shaping the Future of Entrepreneurship
NIC Karachi continues to be a hub for entrepreneurship, innovation, and youth empowerment. With its strong support system, the center is driving Pakistan’s startup ecosystem, creating new opportunities, and helping the country transition into a digital-first economy.
