NIC Hyderabad Sparks Startup Success
In an unprecedented surge of innovation and technological entrepreneurship, the National Incubation Centre (NIC) in Hyderabad has emerged as a beacon of success for startups across Pakistan. Within a remarkable span of less than two years, NIC Hyderabad has incubated over 100 startups, spreading across four cohorts, and received international acclaim for featuring a diverse array of tech-based businesses.
The selection process for these cohorts is highly competitive, ensuring that only the most promising startups receive the opportunity to be nurtured. These selected teams undergo intensive training at the state-of-the-art facility, a program fully-funded by Ignite, a state-owned enterprise under the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT). This initiative is dedicated to producing skilled IT professionals and offering comprehensive support to startups and new businesses in their formative stages.
With a network of eight NICs strategically situated in major cities across the country, including Islamabad, Lahore, Quetta, Karachi, Peshawar, and Hyderabad, and two specialized incubators in Faisalabad and Rawalpindi focusing on agritech and aerospace technologies respectively, the project aims to foster innovation across various sectors. NIC Hyderabad is a product of a public-private partnership, operated by PTCL and LMKT and proudly supported by Ignite and MoITT.
As emphasized by Syed Azfar Hussain, the Project Director of NIC Hyderabad, the Centre has incubated 102 startups within its first 19 months of operation. These startups have undergone and continue to benefit from training, mentorship, and a wealth of resources aimed at propelling them to success. The fifth cohort is eagerly anticipated, with applications to open soon and training expected to commence by August 2024.
One of the standout features of NIC Hyderabad is its inclusivity, allowing teams with innovative ideas to participate, regardless of the founders’ ages. These startups benefit from an array of support services, including workspace provisions, laptops, training programs, mentorship, and opportunities to showcase their products and services at local and international exhibitions.
Among the success stories emanating from NIC Hyderabad are Ghar Bethe Mangwai (GBM) and Mixeal. GBM, dedicated to providing delivery services in rural areas, has managed to implement its idea successfully, reaching customers across multiple cities in Sindh. Its founder, Mohsin Mubarak, emphasized the platform’s accessibility through various means including an app, website, and an AI-connected WhatsApp number offering services in multiple languages.
Mixeal, on the other hand, has made a significant mark in the virtual reality space. Its cricket game, Final Overs VR Cricket, has become the second most played VR cricket game globally. Founded by twin brothers Hallar Azad and Walhar Gohar, Mixeal aspires to be the leading virtual reality company in Pakistan, offering immersive solutions to global companies.
Dr. Noman Said, an IT Expert and CEO of SI Global Solutions, highlighted the pivotal role of NICs in nurturing Pakistan’s startup ecosystem. He pointed out the crucial resources these centres provide, including mentorship, technical support, and funding opportunities. The envisioned launch of a new NIC focusing on gaming and animation is a testament to the evolving needs of the IT startup landscape, promising to further solidify Pakistan’s position in the global tech industry.
To enhance the efficacy and impact of NICs, a collaborative approach involving academia, industry leaders, and startups is essential. By fostering connectivity, ensuring access to international markets, and promoting continuous learning and development, NICs can pave the way for sustainable growth and innovation in the tech sector.
As NIC Hyderabad continues to mentor and support upcoming tech startups, it stands as a model of success, bridging the gap between innovative ideas and market-ready products and services. Its continued evolution will undoubtedly contribute to the broader vision of positioning Pakistan as a global tech hub.
