The National Incubation Center (NIC) Hyderabad, an Ignite initiative under the Ministry of IT & Telecom, marked a significant milestone as it celebrated the graduation of 32 startups from its 4th and 5th cohorts alongside its third anniversary.
Established three years ago, NIC Hyderabad has become a leading hub of innovation, entrepreneurship, and job creation in the region, firmly placing Hyderabad on Pakistan’s digital map.
Federal Minister for IT & Telecom, Ms. Shaza Fatima Khawaja, graced the ceremony as Chief Guest, joined by senior representatives from the Ministry, Ignite, LMKT, PTCL, academia, and the business community.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to the Prime Minister’s Digital Nation Vision, the Minister said:
“The graduation of startups from NIC Hyderabad reflects the talent and resilience of Pakistan’s youth. These entrepreneurs are shaping our digital future by driving economic growth, creating jobs, and showcasing Pakistan’s innovation on the global stage. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, the Ministry remains committed to building a Digital Pakistan by nurturing such ecosystems nationwide.”
Mr. Rafique Ahmed Buriro, CEO Ignite, said NIC Hyderabad proves that entrepreneurship can flourish beyond major cities. He noted that Ignite remains committed to driving distributed innovation, supporting startups that create jobs and build globally relevant solutions across Pakistan.
Vice President LMKT, Asim Ishaq Khan, emphasized that Hyderabad-based startups are scaling across Pakistan and beyond. Project Director NIC Hyderabad, Sayed Sana Shah, reflected on the center’s journey, noting that over 150 startups have been incubated, generating PKR 1 billion in revenue, attracting PKR 470 million in investment, and creating more than 4,100 jobs in just three years.
The graduation ceremony celebrated the grit and creativity of 32 startups, marking another milestone in Hyderabad’s growing entrepreneurial journey. Since its launch, NIC Hyderabad has supported 150+ startups, generating over PKR 1 billion in revenue, attracting PKR 470 million in investment, and creating 4,100+ jobs.
The graduation ceremony served as a testament to the government’s resolve to empower youth through technology and innovation, in line with the Prime Minister’s vision of a knowledge-based digital economy.
