# Invest2Innovate

> Grow, Connect, Empower


## Posts

- [i2i's New Study: Pakistan Startup Ecosystem Report 2019](https://invest2innovate.com/i2is-new-study-pakistan-startup-ecosystem-report-2019/): The State of Pakistan’s Startup Ecosystem: i2i‘s New Study Have you felt the buzz yet? If you haven’t been under a rock, you know that Pakistan is buzzing with young, tech-savvy people in a burgeoning startup ecosystem. Our team was just at 021 Disrupt in Karachi, a major technology conference, and the announcements included a $22 million Series A round for Airlift, $1.6 million Seed round in TelloTalk, and $450,000 Seed round in PriceOye. The growth in Pakistan’s startup space spurred our team to undertake and launch the 2019 Pakistan Startup Ecosystem Report, a study that comes after editions we launched in […]
- [Rise of Pakistan as a Growth Market in Local and Global Tourism - i2i Newsletter](https://invest2innovate.com/rise-of-pakistan-as-a-growth-market-in-local-and-global-tourism-i2i-newsletter/): Snapshot of Travel & Tourism Industry in Numbers Pakistan has emerged as a major tourist destination, recognized by prestigious platforms like Conde Nast and Forbes. With Pakistan topping Conde Nast’s list of exciting travel destinations for 2020 and being featured in Forbes’s ‘best under-the-radar trips of 2020’, the tourism sector is poised for significant growth. According to Gallup Pakistan, tourist traffic at cultural sites in Pakistan increased by 317% over the past five years, with Punjab contributing nearly 95% of this growth. Additionally, the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) reported that 17,823 foreign tourists visited Pakistan in 2018, up from […]
- [Pakistan's Mobility Landscape - i2i Newsletter](https://invest2innovate.com/pakistans-mobility-landscape-i2i-newsletter/): Breaking Down the Buzzword Mobility is a frequently used buzzword in the startup ecosystem, but what does it truly encompass? Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) includes car-sharing, ride-sharing, ride-hailing, food delivery, micro-mobility (bikes and rickshaws), and other transportation network companies. The mobility space has seen sharp growth globally, with USD $50 billion invested into ride-hailing startups since 2013. While the market opportunity is enormous worldwide, Asia leads the way, with East Asia expected to remain the largest market globally. Statista Mobility Market Outlook estimates this market will grow from USD $56.8 billion to $105 billion, serving 700 million customers by 2023. South Asia […]
- [Taking the Pulse of Pakistan's Investment Landscape - Deal Flow Analytics](https://invest2innovate.com/taking-the-pulse-of-pakistans-investment-landscape-deal-flow-analytics/): Introduction: Why a Deal Flow Tracker? Why Now? At Invest2Innovate, our research arm Insights is dedicated to closing the information gap in Pakistan’s startup landscape. In November 2019, we released the Pakistan Startup Ecosystem Report in partnership with the World Bank and the Women’s Entrepreneurial Finance Initiative (We-Fi). The overwhelming response to this report revealed a genuine demand for deal flow information, which is often not readily available or is difficult to track. To address this need, i2i’s Deal Flow Tracker includes most (if not all) of the disclosed deals in the Pakistani startup ecosystem from 2015-2020 (July). This open-source, […]
- [How EdTech is Reshaping the Education Landscape in Pakistan](https://invest2innovate.com/how-edtech-is-reshaping-the-education-landscape-in-pakistan/): E-Learning & Its Future in Light of COVID-19: EdTech Landscape in Pakistan The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically reshaped the educational landscape, highlighting both the potential and limitations of e-learning in Pakistan. As students of all ages were confined to their homes, the shift to online education became imperative. However, the transition has been uneven. Lower-income schools, often lacking the infrastructure for effective remote learning, struggle without a Learning Management System (LMS). Even institutions with established LMS platforms face student dissatisfaction with the quality of online education. Meanwhile, the government’s efforts—ranging from broadcasting lessons on public TV to developing an Android […]
- [Launch of Pakistan’s Startup Ecosystem Report 2019](https://invest2innovate.com/launch-of-pakistans-startup-ecosystem-report-2019/): Introduction: Unveiling the Report at 021 Disrupt Conference Invest2Innovate, in collaboration with The World Bank, launched the 2019 Startup Ecosystem Report at Nest I/O’s 021 Disrupt Conference in Karachi on Sunday, November 3rd. The report, conducted via the Women Entrepreneurs Finance Initiative (We-Fi) of The World Bank, provides a comprehensive analysis of the startup landscape in Pakistan, focusing on finance, regulation, and gender dynamics. Comprehensive Analysis: Methodology and Stakeholders Data Collection and Research Methods The findings of the report are based on both secondary research and primary data collected from four groups of stakeholders: digital entrepreneurs, investors, intermediaries, and policy […]
- [Dare To Disrupt - The Rise of Grocery Startups in Pakistan](https://invest2innovate.com/the-evolution-of-b2c-online-grocery-shopping-in-pakistan/): Part II: The B2C Online Grocery Segment Over the last decade, E-commerce has been  a fast-growing sector across Asia, including in Pakistan. This growth is the result of a number of factors: technological transformation, e-commerce infrastructure, logistical improvements, and socio-cultural demands, which has led to  a spike in e-commerce activity and more specifically in online grocery shopping. Currently, with a turnover of US$1,056.8 billion, Asia is one of strongest B2C e-commerce regions in the world.. Additionally, the increasing number of middle income households and increasing average monthly consumption per household on major food items means the market opportunity for the […]
- [Deal Flow Roundup | Q3 2021](https://invest2innovate.com/deal-flow-roundup-q3-2021/): Pakistani startups raised: $20.3M in Q1 2021 (15 Deals) $85.2M in Q2 2021 (18 Deals) $172.6M in Q3 2021 (17 deals) = $278M raised in total in 2021 YTD (51 Deals)   Here are our key takeaways: – The total amount raised from 2015 to present has reached $490M across 224 deals. – Amounts raised in startup investment in Q3 2021 recorded a YoY growth of 337% in comparison with 2020. – We are close to crossing the $300M mark in 2021, which is phenomenal considering that we are at the beginning of Q4 and there are still more deals in […]
- [Deal Flow Roundup | Q1 2021](https://invest2innovate.com/deal-flow-roundup-q1-2021/): Introduction Three months into 2021, we review the health of startup deal flow in Q1 2021 for Pakistan’s entrepreneurship ecosystem. So far, it looks like a promising year for startup investment, and here are a few reasons why: Fintech on the Rise Growing Number of Deals Fintech continues its strong performance from last year, with a notable spike in the number of deals. In 2020, there were 6 deals in the sector, and there is a year-over-year increase in the average ticket size, from an initial $522k in 2016 to $3.6M in 2021. Significant Investments Investments in the fintech sector […]
- [Pakistan Startup Ecosystem Sees Record-Breaking Investment Growth in 2021](https://invest2innovate.com/pakistan-startup-investment-growth-2021/): In 2021, Pakistan’s startup ecosystem has raised an impressive $101.12 million year-to-date (YTD) across 33 deals. This includes $19.39 million in Q1 from 15 deals and $81.73 million in Q2 from 18 deals. Below are the key insights from this remarkable growth. Significant Growth in Q2 2021 Investment Surge Q2 2021 saw a 322% increase in funding compared to Q1. This rapid growth reflects rising investor confidence in Pakistan’s startups. Year-Over-Year Growth Impressive YTD Increase The $101.12 million raised YTD in 2021 represents a 536% increase from the $15.90 million raised during the same period in 2020. It’s also 53% […]
- [Could M&As Be a Possible Solution for Pakistani Startups as Funding Wanes?](https://invest2innovate.com/mergers-and-acquisitions-be-a-possible-solution-for-pakistani-startups-as-funding-wanes/): Introduction In our last blog post, we explored the prospects of the startup ecosystem following the February 8th elections. Since then, significant news has emerged with Turkish fintech powerhouse Papara’s acquisition of SadaPay, a prominent fintech company in Pakistan. Although details of the acquisition remain undisclosed, reports suggest the all-stock deal is valued between $30 million and $50 million.   M&A Activity in 2024 This deal marks the first significant M&A activity for 2024, following a relatively quiet year in 2023. Global M&A activity experienced a decline last year, with a 14% decrease in deal volume and a 41% drop […]
- [Deal Flow Roundup | Q4 2021](https://invest2innovate.com/deal-flow-roundup-q4-2021/): Introduction Pakistani startups raised $69 million in Q4 2021 across 22 deals. This brought the total amount raised by Pakistani startups in 2021 to $350 million across 81 deals, marking a more than fivefold increase from 2020. The Pakistani startup funding landscape has reached an exciting inflection point, with international VCs writing significant checks into the country. Here are some key takeaways worth noting: E-Commerce and Fintech Funding Overview of Sector Funding In 2021, e-commerce raised $202 million in 23 deals, while fintech raised $95 million in 25 deals. However, in Q4, fintech startups outpaced e-commerce startups for the first […]
- [Q1 2024 Deal Flow Update: Historic Low in Startup Fundraising](https://invest2innovate.com/quarterly-deal-flow-update-q1-2024/): The Outlook on Startup Fundraising Trends In Q1 2024, Pakistan’s startup ecosystem hit a historic low with zero fundraising deals. This unprecedented decline underscores the critical need for startups to practice frugality, especially in challenging economic conditions. This quarter’s zero deals reflect economic instability and its impact on investor confidence. For the first time since 2015, no deals were reported in a quarter. Economic instability and political uncertainty have severely dented investor confidence. Additionally, global economic conditions and high-interest rates have strained the funding pipeline. Economic Concerns: The Impact on Pakistan’s Startup Ecosystem Economic factors are a major concern. The […]
- [Has the Fintech Boom Turned into Doom for Startups?](https://invest2innovate.com/has-the-fintech-boom-turned-into-doom-for-startups/): Introduction When it comes to encapsulating the ethos of Pakistan’s startup ecosystem, fintech stands out. Over the past two decades, players in this sector have made significant strides in developing and delivering innovative products. This vertical has consistently garnered investor interest, and in 2023, Pakistani fintech companies led in deal closures. Notably, fintech startup Abhi raised $6.8 million for a Sukuk bond in May 2023, marking a first for a fintech in the MENAP region. However, recent macroeconomic challenges have pushed many fintech startups to the brink.   A Bumpy 2023 Economic Contraction and Lending Challenges A significant economic contraction […]
- [Cleantech Startups: A Catalyst for Pakistan’s Green Ambitions](https://invest2innovate.com/cleantech-startups-a-catalyst-for-pakistans-green-ambitions/): Introduction Our previous blog posts have covered broad themes resonating with the overall startup ecosystem. This time, we delve deeper into a specific vertical – Cleantech startups. Pakistan’s climate challenges, highlighted by the devastating floods in 2022, have underscored the need for innovation. The country aims to reduce carbon emissions by 50% from 2015 to 2030, with 15% from domestic resources and 35% from international financial support. Achieving this goal requires implementing climate mitigation and adaptation actions across sectors like energy, transportation, waste, and agriculture. Cleantech startups, offering technologies and innovations to reduce environmental impact, are key to these efforts. […]
- [Impact of Platform Bans on Pakistan’s Startup Ecosystem](https://invest2innovate.com/platform-bans-startup-ecosystem-pakistan/): Platform bans have become a significant issue for Pakistan’s startup ecosystem. Online platforms are central to communication and information sharing, and in Pakistan, where 82.9 million people use the internet, these platforms are crucial for growth. However, recent events, like the February 4th ban on Wikipedia by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) for allegedly hosting ‘sacrilegious content’, highlight the challenges faced by the digital landscape. This ban is part of a broader trend of platform bans in Pakistan, raising concerns about their effects on the startup ecosystem. History and Current Trends in Platform Bans The State of Platform Bans in […]
- [Can the EV Revolution Please Stand Up?](https://invest2innovate.com/can-the-ev-revolution-please-stand-up/): Introduction When considering Pakistani startups, you might think of fintechs, ride-hailing services, last-mile delivery apps, and well-known e-commerce platforms. An electric vehicle (EV) startup, however, is probably not the first thing that comes to mind. This lack of immediate association reflects the slow progress of electric mobility in the country, despite its evident potential and need. Across the Indus Promising Developments in India Before we delve into Pakistan’s electric bike market, let’s look at the progress across the border in India. The future looks promising for electric two-wheelers, including motorcycles and scooters, which are a significant component of India’s transportation […]
- [Gender Lens on Startup Investment in Pakistan: Bridging the Gap](https://invest2innovate.com/gender-lens-pakistan-startup-investment-gap/): Introduction: Understanding Gender Lens Dynamics in Startup Investment Pakistan’s startup landscape is evolving, but gender disparities remain a critical issue. Applying a gender lens to this analysis, we examine how female-founded and co-founded startups are navigating the investment ecosystem. This insight highlights the progress and ongoing challenges in bridging the gender funding gap. Defining Female-Founded and Co-Founded Startups in the Investment Landscape Female-founded startups: Startups with one or more female founders. Female co-founded startups: Mixed-gender teams with at least one female founder. Gender Dynamics in Pakistan’s Startup Funding  In 2021, female-founded and co-founded startups secured 34% of total startup funding in […]
- [The “F” Factor: Overcoming Bias in Startup Investment Selection](https://invest2innovate.com/the-f-factor-overcoming-bias-in-startup-investment-selection/): Introduction In the world of business and technology, the gender parity debate has been rehashed many times without a lot of action contributing toward change. This disparity extends to the startup ecosystem, where female founders secure a mere fraction of the deals and funding enjoyed by their male counterparts. As we delve into the crucial factors behind this gender gap, we will also highlight actionable steps that investors and founders can take to level the playing field and unleash the full potential of women-led startups. To gain a better understanding of the persistent gender funding gap, our team took a […]
- [Personal Safety Sector](https://invest2innovate.com/personal-safety-sector-2/): A Bitter Reminder A Personal Shock The recent rape case in Islamabad’s F9 park was a personal shock that hit too close to home. I remember walking in the park just a few days before the incident, and now it’s a place I fear returning to. The details of the incident were difficult for my colleagues and me to read, as it felt like it could have happened to anyone. However, what is even more distressing is the victim-blaming and misogynistic attitudes in our society, where the female victim who bravely reported the crime faced challenges in seeking justice. The […]
- [Quarterly Deal Flow Update Q3 2024: Resilience Amidst Recovery](https://invest2innovate.com/quarterly-updates-quarterly-deal-flow-update-q3-2024-resilience-amidst-recovery/): As Q3 of 2024 comes to a close, Pakistan’s startup ecosystem is beginning to show signs of recovery after a shaky start to the year. While challenges remain, a combination of renewed investor interest and stabilizing macroeconomic conditions is aiding in the recovery. The IMF has revised Pakistan’s growth forecast to 3.2% and expects the average inflation rate to decrease to a single-digit by the end of FY 2024. The improving macroeconomic indicators is expected to contribute to an increase in Venture Capital funding. Globally, VC funding in Q3 stood at $66.5 Billion, showing a quarter over quarter decline of […]
- [How to Guide for Using Investor Founder Discover Platform(IFDP)](https://invest2innovate.com/how-to-guide-for-using-ifdp/): Registration Steps: For Startups: Register & Create Profile: Fill out the Startup form and provide key details about your startup like funding stage, business model, industry sector etc. Submit Listing: Upload your startup profile for review. Ensure it’s complete and accurate. Get Verified: Once reviewed, your profile is published, allowing investors to discover you. Search Investors: Now you can start searching for investors and startups by using filters like type, preferred stage, and financial instruments. For Investors: Create Profile: Fill out the Investor Form and specify investment preferences, including sectors, stages, and types. Browse Startups: Use the platform to discover startups […]
- [The Gender Gap in Financial Inclusion - What do the Numbers Say](https://invest2innovate.com/the-gender-gap-in-financial-inclusion/): Understanding Financial Inclusion If you’ve been following Pakistan’s economic discussions, you’ve likely encountered the term “Financial Inclusion.” So, what does it mean? Financial inclusion refers to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their location, can access essential financial services like bank accounts, savings, loans, and insurance. It’s about enabling everyone to utilize the formal financial system to manage their finances, save for the future, and enhance their financial health. This term is frequently mentioned due to the disparity between discussions and actual progress in accessing financial services. Various sources provide differing accounts of the current status. The Current Landscape The World […]
- [Can Microfinance and Digital Banking Drive Inclusive Economic Growth in Pakistan?](https://invest2innovate.com/microfinance-and-digital-banking-drive-inclusive-economic-growth-in-pakistan/): Overview Despite its current challenges, microfinance plays a crucial role in Pakistan’s financial ecosystem, providing low-income individuals and small businesses with access to credit. Now, with the increasing digitisation of the sector, the financial landscape is becoming more dynamic and promising. In our last Friday Feature, we highlighted how the fintech sector attracted the highest share—71%—of the total disclosed funding for Pakistani startups in 2024. This week, we take a deeper dive into the financial sector, examining the momentum of digitisation and the current state of microfinance, as we believe both have the potential to positively impact the economy—and possibly […]
- [The Fintech Landscape in Pakistan: Progress and Potential](https://invest2innovate.com/the-fintech-landscape-in-pakistan-progress-and-potential/): Pakistan’s fintech ecosystem is rapidly evolving, driven by innovation, smartphone penetration, and internet access. With a population of 240.5 million, the country aims to increase adult financial inclusion to 75% by 2028 (currently 64%). Fintechs can accelerate this through digital financial solutions. Regulatory initiatives, such as the State Bank of Pakistan’s (SBP) frameworks, have created a supportive environment, positioning Pakistan as a promising fintech market. Economic Potential With 143M broadband and 193M cellular subscribers, Pakistan’s digital infrastructure fosters fintech innovation. The SBP projects the digital payments sector to reach $36 billion by 2025. A young, tech-savvy population and government initiatives […]
- [Pakistan’s Electric Vehicle Landscape](https://invest2innovate.com/pakistans-electric-vehicle-landscape/): Overview: Pakistan’s electric vehicle (EV) market presents a mix of challenges and opportunities. The country has a massive two-wheeler market with 26 million units on the road, approximately four million four-wheelers, and a quarter of a million buses and trucks. Despite these significant numbers, EVs remain a negligible fraction of the total vehicles. However, the entry of new players, with over 40 companies receiving licenses from the Engineering Development Board (EDB), signals potential for growth. Economic Potential: Market Size: The two- and three-wheeler market consistently sells over 1.5 million units annually and is projected to surpass 2 million units per […]
- [Artificial Intelligence: Where does Pakistan stand?](https://invest2innovate.com/artificial-intelligence-where-does-pakistan-stand/): Overview: Pakistan’s IT sector is on the verge of a significant transformation, fueled by the growing global emphasis on Artificial Intelligence (AI). As international clients increasingly demand AI integration, companies are eager to incorporate AI into their processes for competitive advantage, even if it may not be strictly necessary for their operations. Additionally, the development of Pakistan’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) is set to facilitate digital upgrades, making AI more mainstream. The government’s initiative to create a digital identity for citizens aims to centralize social, economic, and governance data, marking a major technological shift for the country. Economic Potential: Transformation […]
- [Climate Techs in Emerging Markets: Opportunities and Barriers for Pakistan](https://invest2innovate.com/green-tech-pakistan-startups-growth/): Pakistan’s climate tech industry poised for multi-billion dollar growth Pakistan’s climate tech sector is emerging as a multi-billion-dollar opportunity, with industry experts predicting it could reach $3-4 billion in the next five years. With abundant tech talent, low deployment costs, and increasing global ESG regulations, the country is well-positioned to capitalize on this growing market. However, challenges such as regulatory hurdles and limited funding must be addressed to unlock its full potential. Faraz Khan MBE, CEO and Partner at Spectreco, a global ESG data and tech advisory firm, emphasizes Pakistan’s potential in the climate tech sector. He highlighted that the […]
- [Climate tech funding: The mismatch catch](https://invest2innovate.com/climate-tech-funding-the-mismatch-catch/): Overview Climate tech has seen its share of ups and downs, but over the past decade, the sector has witnessed remarkable growth. According to Dealroom.co, the climate tech ecosystem has expanded 45-fold in ten years. Despite a 20% decline in the enterprise value of global climate tech startups in 2022, the sector rebounded to $2.5 trillion in 2023, signaling renewed investor confidence. At its core, climate tech encompasses a wide array of innovations aimed at reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and helping societies adapt to climate change. These solutions span industries such as mobility, energy, industrial processes, and agriculture, leveraging […]
- [Pakistani Fintech Expansion in the Middle East: Opportunities & Challenges](https://invest2innovate.com/pakistani-fintech-expansion-middle-east/): The expansion of Pakistani fintech companies into the Middle East marks a significant trend in the global financial technology landscape. This movement is driven by a combination of favorable market conditions, regulatory frameworks, and the potential for substantial financial inclusion. However, it also presents a unique set of challenges that these companies must navigate to succeed. Market Potential and Opportunities UAE-based fintech Encore Pay Founder and CEO Imran Saeed emphasized that startups are required to expand to ensure returns on investment (ROI) for investors. However, in Pakistan, this has historically been challenging due to rupee depreciation against the dollar. Even […]
- [Advancing Pakistan’s Growth with AI: Opportunities, Challenges, and the Road Ahead](https://invest2innovate.com/advancing-pakistan-growth-through-ai-technology/): AI’s Growing Influence in Pakistan Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming industries worldwide, and Pakistan is no exception. From healthcare to agriculture and finance, AI is increasingly being adopted to improve efficiency and decision-making. However, despite its potential to drive economic transformation, Pakistan faces significant challenges, including talent shortages and regulatory gaps. To fully capitalize on AI’s promise, the country must build a sustainable ecosystem that fosters innovation and addresses key barriers. Cost Reduction with Open-Source AI Habibullah Khan, CEO at digital product design studio Penumbra – which helps build AI-powered products – explains that DeepSeek’s advancements in AI have made […]
- [AI Agents: The Next Big Leap in Artificial Intelligence](https://invest2innovate.com/ai-agents-the-next-big-leap-in-artificial-intelligence/): Overview The rapid rise of AI agents is reshaping the artificial intelligence (AI) landscape, with an unprecedented surge in funding and investment. While AI agents remain loosely defined, they are broadly understood as AI-powered software systems capable of autonomously performing complex tasks across various domains, from customer service to IT assistance. As the industry continues to evolve, automated AI models are becoming an integral part of automation, driven by advancements in: Machine learning Natural language processing Reinforcement learning Explosive Growth in AI Agent Funding The funding landscape for AI agents has witnessed significant growth over the years: 2020–2022: Investment remained […]
- [The world is embracing AI, is Pakistan ready?](https://invest2innovate.com/the-world-is-embracing-ai-is-pakistan-ready/): The world is embracing AI, is Pakistan ready?  Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming global industries at an unprecedented pace. With AI accounting for 33% of total venture capital (VC) funding in 2024 double what it was two years ago—the world is rapidly embracing AI-driven advancements. However, the question remains: Is Pakistan prepared to ride this wave? The AI Boom and Global Shifts AI investment reached $110 billion globally in 2024, with China’s DeepSeek AI making significant strides. DeepSeek’s success led to a sharp decline in US tech stock value, wiping nearly $1 trillion off the market in a single day. […]
- [Financing Climate Tech in Pakistan: Bridging the Gap](https://invest2innovate.com/financing-climate-tech-in-pakistan-bridging-the-gap/): Overview Pakistan, as a signatory to the Paris Agreement, has pledged to reduce projected carbon emissions by 50% by 2030, relying heavily on international financial support. However, despite its potential, climate tech attracted only 2-3% of total startup venture funding between 2018 and 2023. Investments have primarily focused on low-carbon mitigation projects, with limited funding for adaptation and resilience. Private-sector climate financing remains relatively small compared to other countries. Industry Updates Policy Developments Pakistan’s Carbon Policy 2024 has been notified; carbon market regulations are expected by Q1 2025. The government is encouraging investments in compliance and voluntary carbon markets. Key […]
- [Pakistan’s Circular Economy Opportunity: Empowering Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Growth](https://invest2innovate.com/pakistans-circular-economy-opportunity-empowering-entrepreneurship-for-sustainable-growth/): Pakistan stands at a critical juncture, facing mounting environmental, economic, and social challenges. With a population surpassing 240 million, the country is grappling with soaring demand for food, energy, and resources, coupled with inefficient waste management systems and one of the highest climate vulnerability indices globally. Amidst this pressing context, the concept of a circular economy presents a transformative path forward offering Pakistan an opportunity to align economic growth with environmental sustainability. Moving Beyond the Linear Model The traditional linear model of economic development take, make, dispose has left behind a trail of resource depletion, pollution, and socio-economic disparity. In […]
- [Financing a Greener Future - Why?](https://invest2innovate.com/financing-a-greener-future-why/): Last month, I stood at my window in Islamabad, watching hailstones bounce off parched ground. Meanwhile, Karachi baked under a heatwave. These aren’t seasonal quirks, they’re warnings! Pakistan is no longer on the brink of climate catastrophe; it is already living through it. Ranked as the most climate-vulnerable country on the Climate Risk Index 2025 and still recovering from the $30 billion blow dealt by the 2022 floods, the country faces an onslaught of environmental challenges: Sweltering heat waves Deadly floods Glacial melts Droughtsa Rising coastal threats In the chaos of floods and fires, there’s a quieter opportunity brewing, one […]
- [From Trash to Tech: Will Climate Entrepreneurs Find a Foothold in Pakistan?](https://invest2innovate.com/from-trash-to-tech-will-climate-entrepreneurs-find-a-foothold-in-pakistan/): Overview As the climate crisis intensifies, the global focus on sustainability is shifting but not always in the right direction. In the West, climate denial politics are resurfacing, with figures like Donald Trump dismissing the urgency of climate change. Meanwhile, shrinking climate funds and economic recalibrations suggest a potential retreat from green commitments. Yet in Pakistan, a country contributing less than 1% to global emissions, climate entrepreneurship is quietly gaining momentum. With low per capita emissions and limited industrialization, Pakistan’s environmental footprint remains small. But the stakes are high. As climate-related disasters grow more frequent, it’s clear: sustainability isn’t a […]
- [Could M&As Be a Possible Solution for Pakistani Startups as Funding Wanes?](https://invest2innovate.com/could-mas-be-a-possible-solution-for-pakistani-startups-as-funding-wanes/): Introduction In our last blog post, we explored the prospects of the startup ecosystem following the February 8th elections. Since then, significant news has emerged with Turkish fintech powerhouse Papara’s acquisition of SadaPay, a prominent fintech company in Pakistan. Although details of the acquisition remain undisclosed, reports suggest the all-stock deal is valued between $30 million and $50 million.   M&A Activity in 2024 This deal marks the first significant M&A activity for 2024, following a relatively quiet year in 2023. Global M&A activity experienced a decline last year, with a 14% decrease in deal volume and a 41% drop […]
- [Digital Taxes, No Safety Net: How Pakistan’s Budget 2025–26 Affects the Startup Ecosystem](https://invest2innovate.com/digital-taxes-no-safety-net-how-pakistans-budget-2025-26-affects-the-startup-ecosystem/): Industry Overview Pakistan’s IT sector has emerged as a bright spot in the country’s otherwise sluggish economy, with exports set to reach around $3.7 billion (FY2025) and a predominantly young, tech-savvy population fueling growth. In the first ten months of fiscal year 2025 (10MFY25), IT exports reached $3.1 billion, marking a robust 21% year-on-year (YoY) increase. Notably, April 2025 saw monthly IT exports of $317 million, up 2% YoY, though down 7% month-on-month (MoM). This figure remains above the 12-month average of $314 million, reflecting the 19th consecutive month of YoY export growth starting from October 2023. Export proceeds per […]
- [Pakistan’s IT Sector: A Digital Frontier Brimming with Promise](https://invest2innovate.com/pakistans-it-sector-a-digital-frontier-brimming-with-promise/): Industry Overview Pakistan’s IT sector has emerged as a bright spot in the country’s otherwise sluggish economy, with exports set to reach around $3.7 billion (FY2025) and a predominantly young, tech-savvy population fueling growth. In the first ten months of fiscal year 2025 (10MFY25), IT exports reached $3.1 billion, marking a robust 21% year-on-year (YoY) increase. Notably, April 2025 saw monthly IT exports of $317 million, up 2% YoY, though down 7% month-on-month (MoM). This figure remains above the 12-month average of $314 million, reflecting the 19th consecutive month of YoY export growth starting from October 2023. Export proceeds per […]
- [What Pakistan Can Learn from China’s Leap in EVs, AI, and Defense](https://invest2innovate.com/what-pakistan-can-learn-from-chinas-leap-in-evs-ai-and-defense/): Overview Pakistan shares deep strategic ties with China: CPEC, defense cooperation, and diplomatic alignment. However, there’s a wide gap in innovation and technological self-sufficiency. As Pakistan looks to build a sustainable, tech-savvy, and secure future, China’s example offers clear takeaways. China’s Strengths – Key Updates Electric Vehicles (EVs) Artificial Intelligence (AI) Green Solutions Defense Hardware Pakistan’s Challenges Electric Vehicles AI Development Defense Limitations The Road Ahead: Key Steps for Pakistan Collaborate Smarter Build AI Foundations Upgrade Defense Ecosystem Conclusion: From Friendship to Future Readiness China’s remarkable progress in electric mobility, AI, green energy, and defense technology didn’t happen overnight. It […]

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- [InnovateLab - AI for Business Growth – Group Workshop](https://invest2innovate.com/innovatelab/): Get your Tickets Now! InnovateLab Jan 2026 AI for Business Growth Build the foundations of an AI-enabled business Apply now 20 – 31 Jan 2026 6 Sessions 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM Tues, Thurs, Sat Live & Practical Online Workshop InnovateLab is a 6-day, hands-on group workshop for early-stage founders who want to stop running their businesses on manual effort and start using AI to power sales, marketing, finance and operations. Across six sessions, you’ll learn how to plug AI into the real workflows you and your team use every day – so you can move faster, make better decisions […]
- [i2i Build Up 2025](https://invest2innovate.com/i2i-build-up-2025/): Get your Tickets Now! FUNDING. OPS. RESILIENCE. NO FLUFF. FUNDING. OPS. RESILIENCE. NO FLUFF. i2i Build Up On 29th November 2025, Invest2Innovate (i2i) hosted Build Up 2025 in Karachi — a day designed for founders to reflect, learn, and connect. This was not just an event; it was a space for honest conversations, practical tools, and meaningful connections across financial, operational, and mental wellness. Pakistan’s first founder-first conference has concluded, and the insights are here! Download the Insights & Highlights Deck On 29th November 2025Invest2Innovate (i2i) hosted Build Up 2025 in Karachi — a day designed for founders to reflect, […]
- [AI for Business Growth](https://invest2innovate.com/ai-for-business-growth/): AI for Business Growth AI for Business Growth A Free Community Event supported by VISA Foundation Event Ended Days Hours Minutes LEARN | BUILD | GROW November 27, 2025 2:00 – 5:00 PM PKT The Hive Clifton, Karachi Registrations Closed Thank you for the overwhelming response. Seats for this session are now fully booked. Shortlisted participants will receive their invitation and event details soon. If you’d like to be considered for upcoming AI learning experiences and future sessions, please join the waitlist below. Why This Event Matters AI isn’t just for big tech. It’s for you, the founder, the SME […]
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- [i2i Build Up 2025](https://invest2innovate.com/i2i-build-up-2025-old/): Get your Tickets Now! FUNDING. OPS. RESILIENCE. NO FLUFF. FUNDING. OPS. RESILIENCE. NO FLUFF. 29th November 2025 District 19, Karachi i2i Build Up i2i Build Up Bringing together Pakistan’s boldest entrepreneurs, fearless founders, and ecosystem leaders under one roof — for a day of honest conversations, practical tools, and real connection. Group Discounts are Live!   Get your Tickets Now! The event has ended 29th November 2025 District 19, Karachi Get your Tickets Now! Hours 0 Powerful Pillars 0 Sessions 0 Learning Labs 2 Networking 0 x Build Up is different. It’s our first flagship, founder-first conference designed for early […]
- [Toolkits & Resources](https://invest2innovate.com/toolkit-and-resources/): Reports Toolkits & Resources We develop practical, actionable resources to guide founders, investors, and ecosystem builders in Pakistan’s startup space. JOIN US Stay in the Loop Want to stay ahead of the curve?Sign up for i2i’s monthly newsletter for exclusive insights, data-driven research, and trends shaping Pakistan’s startup ecosystem. Sign Up Sign Up
- [Deal Flow Tracker](https://invest2innovate.com/deal-flow-tracker/): Deal Flow Tracker Pakistan’s most comprehensive and reliable startup funding database Our products are designed to solve real gaps in Pakistan’s startup ecosystem. These tools give founders, investors, and support organizations the insights, data, and connections they need to accelerate growth and deepen their impact.
- [Resources](https://invest2innovate.com/resources/): Resource Library Your central hub for actionable insights, toolkits, and ecosystem intelligence. Access our curated collection of reports, toolkits, blogs, and data-driven updates — designed to equip entrepreneurs, investors, and ecosystem builders with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed.
- [Press & Media](https://invest2innovate.com/press-media/): Programs Helping founders grow ideas into lasting impact. We take a 360° approach to designing and executing programs that support founders, investors, and ecosystem actors. From getting startups investment-ready to enabling angel investors and ESOs across growth markets, we co-create tailored, high-impact initiatives with our partners to strengthen the entrepreneurial landscape. JOIN US Acceleration Programs At i2i, we’ve supported startups since 2011 through accelerator programs tailored to local realities and founder needs. Today, our acceleration work goes beyond the traditional model — with sprints, coaching, and hands-on support designed to help startups grow, raise capital, and expand into new markets. […]
- [Skills of the future](https://invest2innovate.com/skills-of-the-future/): Skills of the future Preparing Pakistan’s workforce for an AI-enabled economy. An Ecosystem Designed to Foster Innovation, Amplify Impact and Fuel Growth for Startups Why It Matters Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the global economy but in Pakistan, it risks deepening existing inequalities. Unemployment remains high, female labor participation is among the lowest in South Asia, and learners in public universities and tier-2 cities face limited access to digital tools, labs, and mentorship. At the same time, professionals from non-tech backgrounds struggle to build applied AI skills, while most businesses remain unprepared to adopt or integrate AI. High unemployment and […]
- [Founder Stories](https://invest2innovate.com/founder-stories/): Stories Founder Stories At i2i, we bring together founders, investors, and ecosystem leaders through curated events that drive collaboration, spark ideas, and fuel the future of entrepreneurship in Pakistan and beyond. CREATING REAL STORIES REAL IMPACT Founder Stories EZ Wage was founded to solve the problem of delayed access to earned income, which often leads to financial stress and reliance on high-interest loans. We provide earned wage access, payroll financing, and invoice factoring solutions that enable employees to access their earnings anytime, while helping businesses improve cash flow. Today, we serve companies across Pakistan, driving financial inclusion and workplace wellbeing. […]
- [Quarterly Reports](https://invest2innovate.com/quarterly-reports/): Reports Quarterly Reports Our Startup Ecosystem Reports — both national and provincial — provide deep dives into Pakistan’s entrepreneurial landscape. Backed by rich primary data, these reports highlight opportunities, gaps, and trends shaping startups, investors, and support organizations. JOIN US Stay in the Loop Want to stay ahead of the curve?Sign up for i2i’s monthly newsletter for exclusive insights, data-driven research, and trends shaping Pakistan’s startup ecosystem. Sign Up Sign Up
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- [i2i Scale](https://invest2innovate.com/i2i-scale/): i2i Scale Amplify Your Momentum: Tailored Acceleration for Your Next Big Win i2iScale is a bespoke, execution-focused, 12-week online accelerator designed for post-revenue startups ready to grow, fundraise, or scale. APPLY NOW Fueling Founder Success 31 Startups Accelerated $380K+ Funding Committed to Graduates 4 Startups Landed in KSA 150+ Investors in Our Growing Pipeline $2.2M+ Revenue Generated by Accelerated Startups 269% QoQ Revenue Growth by Accelerated Startups 300+ Jobs Created By Accelerated Startups What is i2iScale? i2iScale is a bespoke, execution-focused, 12-week online accelerator designed for post-revenue startups ready to grow, fundraise, or scale. As an ecosystem-integrated program, i2iScale connects founders with the […]
- [Reports](https://invest2innovate.com/reports/): Reports Ecosystem Reports Our Startup Ecosystem Reports — both national and provincial — provide deep dives into Pakistan’s entrepreneurial landscape. Backed by rich primary data, these reports highlight opportunities, gaps, and trends shaping startups, investors, and support organizations. JOIN US Stay in the Loop Want to stay ahead of the curve?Sign up for i2i’s monthly newsletter for exclusive insights, data-driven research, and trends shaping Pakistan’s startup ecosystem. Sign Up Sign Up
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Whether you have a question, idea, or want to collaborate — drop us a note! JOIN US Office Location Daftarkhwan | Alpha Old Airport Rd, Chaklala Cantt., Rawalpindi Email Us info@invest2innovate.com Call us at +92 312 5435652 Have a question, idea, or partnership in mind? Fill out the form below — we’d love to hear from you.
- [i2i Ecosystem](https://invest2innovate.com/i2i-ecosystem/): Powered by Visa Foundation i2i Ecosystem An Ecosystem Designed to Foster Innovation, Amplify Impact and Fuel Growth for Startups About the i2i Ecosystem Invest2Innovate (i2i), with a $500,000 commitment from Visa Foundation, has launched the i2i Ecosystem Project — a transformative initiative to address critical gaps and reshape Pakistan’s rapidly evolving entrepreneurial landscape, with a strong focus on boosting women’s entrepreneurship. Invest2innovate has Launched i2i Ecosystem with support from Visa Foundation https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GqHfLdYU-mk What We Do At i2i, we bet on people — their ideas, their resilience, and their ability to create meaningful change. Through community, data, and capacity-building, we provide […]
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- [Careers](https://invest2innovate.com/careers/): Careers Build the Future with Us Build the Future with Us At Invest2Innovate, we’re more than a team — we’re a community of changemakers, dreamers, and doers building thriving startup ecosystems across emerging markets. What It’s Like to Work at i2i Working at i2i means joining a collaborative, creative space where your ideas matter. We value flexibility, experimentation, and empathy — because innovation thrives when people do. Curiosity over credentials We hire for mindset, not titles. Collaboration is our superpower We co-create with startups, investors & policymakers. Impact that matters Every project connects to real people & ecosystems. Growth journeys […]
- [About i2i](https://invest2innovate.com/about-i2i/): About About i2i At Invest2Innovate (i2i), we are driven by the belief that resilient, inclusive ecosystems unlock the potential for transformative businesses to thrive. Our Leadership Leadership committed to strengthening entrepreneurial ecosystems. Kalsoom Lakhani Founder invest2innovateCo-founder and GP, i2i Ventures Misbah Naqvi Co-founder and GP, i2i Ventures Leah Boyer Saifullah U.S. Diplomat & Investment Consultant Hassan Bhatti Tech Entrepreneur & Investor The Team Behind i2i is a diverse, experienced team and board committed to building stronger entrepreneurial ecosystems. Sarah Munir Chief Executive Officer Aleena Khan Deputy Director Growth & Strategy Duaa Asif Head of Strategic Communications Laiba Ahmad Senior Program […]
- [Community](https://invest2innovate.com/community/): Community & Events Join i2i’s events to connect Pakistan’s entrepreneurship ecosystem. At i2i, we bring together founders, investors, and ecosystem leaders through curated events that drive collaboration, spark ideas, and fuel the future of entrepreneurship in Pakistan and beyond. Conferences Bringing the ecosystem together to spotlight trends, insights, and big ideas shaping the future. Workshops Hands-on learning spaces to build skills, strategies, and connections. Roundtables Curated, focused conversations with leaders and experts driving change. Advocacy Informal gatherings to foster connections, share stories, and strengthen networks. We don’t host events. We build ecosystems https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RORBQJjtJvE Upcoming Events Pakistan’s most comprehensive and reliable […]
- [Products](https://invest2innovate.com/products/): Products Building Products to Power Pakistan’s Startup Ecosystem Our products are designed to solve real gaps in Pakistan’s startup ecosystem. These tools give founders, investors, and support organizations the insights, data, and connections they need to accelerate growth and deepen their impact. Deal Flow Tracker Pakistan’s most comprehensive and reliable startup funding database Explore Deal Flows Investor-Founder Discovery Platform (IFDP) Pakistan’s most comprehensive and reliable startup funding database Explore IFDP Toolkits & Resources We develop practical, actionable resources to guide founders, investors, and ecosystem builders in Pakistan’s startup space. Explore Resources Stay in the Loop Get our latest resources, reports, […]
- [Policy Advocacy](https://invest2innovate.com/policy-advocacy/): Policy Advocacy Driving Systems Change for a Stronger Startup Ecosystem At Invest2Innovate (i2i), we believe meaningful impact requires more than programs and resources — it demands long-term, systemic change. That’s why we’ve expanded our work into Policy Advocacy: to push for actionable, data-backed reforms that strengthen Pakistan’s entrepreneurial landscape. Research Data-driven reports, insights, and analysis Convenings Bringing ecosystem players together Policy Engagement Engaging with government & regulators Advocacy Advocating for systemic reforms We push for data-backed reforms to unlock capital, drive growth, and strengthen Pakistan’s entrepreneurial landscape. Our Recent Work Pakistan Startup Policy Brief Closing the Funding Gap Despite the […]
- [Insights](https://invest2innovate.com/insights/): Insights & Research Turning Data into Direction Through our Insights Lab, we publish data-driven research to inform, influence, and guide founders, investors, and ecosystem actors. From comprehensive reports to quarterly updates, we deliver clarity on Pakistan’s evolving startup landscape — because better data leads to smarter decisions. Ecosystem Reports Comprehensive ecosystem deep dives Quarterly Updates Funding Trends at a Glance Blogs & Briefings Insights that Move Conversations Forward Ecosystem Reports Our Startup Ecosystem Reports — both national and provincial — provide deep dives into Pakistan’s entrepreneurial landscape. Backed by rich primary data, these reports highlight opportunities, gaps, and trends shaping […]
- [Programs](https://invest2innovate.com/programs/): Programs Helping founders grow ideas into lasting impact. Helping founders grow ideas into lasting impact. We take a 360° approach to designing and executing programs that support founders, investors, and ecosystem actors. From getting startups investment-ready to enabling angel investors and ESOs across growth markets, we co-create tailored, high-impact initiatives with our partners to strengthen the entrepreneurial landscape. JOIN US ESOs Capacity Building We work with ecosystem support organizations (ESOs) to strengthen the infrastructure around startups. Through tailored training, mentorship, and toolkits, we help incubators, accelerators, and intermediaries design more impactful programs, better support diverse founders, and build resilient ecosystems […]
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- [Home](https://invest2innovate.com/): Backing Founders Building Entrepreneurial Ecosystems Invest2Innovate is a leading force in building resilient entrepreneurship ecosystems in growth markets. Since 2011, we’ve shaped Pakistan’s entrepreneurship landscape through a bold focus on Innovation, Inclusion, and Entrepreneurship. Invest2Innovate is a leading force in building resilient entrepreneurship ecosystems in growth markets. Since 2011, we’ve shaped Pakistan’s entrepreneurship landscape through a bold focus on Innovation, Inclusion, and Entrepreneurship. We Focus on Growth $16.77 Million in capital raised by businesses in our network 1151 Founders trained through targeted programs & coaching 190+ Ecosystem Organizations strengthened through capacity-building 141 Angel Investors trained through education & community initiatives 386 […]
- [Home2](https://invest2innovate.com/home-2/): Backing Founders Building Entrepreneurial Ecosystems Invest2Innovate is a leading force in building resilient entrepreneurship ecosystems in growth markets. Since 2011, we’ve shaped Pakistan’s entrepreneurship landscape through a bold focus on Innovation, Inclusion, and Entrepreneurship. Become a part of journey We foucus on growth $16.7 M Capital raised by our businesses 1100+ Founders trained through our programs & coaching 190+ Ecosystem Organizations strengthened through capacity-building 141 Angel Investors Trained education & community initiatives 386 Jobs created through network 1,000+ key ecosystem players across Pakistan 100+ funding deals tracked 5 Landmark reports published Our contribution toward global sustainable development goals (SDGs) What […]

## Products

- [BuildUp 2025- Group of Three](https://invest2innovate.com/product/buildup-2025-group-of-three/): BuildUp 2025- Group of Three
- [BuildUp 2025- Group of two](https://invest2innovate.com/product/buildup-2025-group-of-two/): BuildUp 2025- Group of two
- [Founder](https://invest2innovate.com/product/founder/): Single Founder Pass

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