NIC Karachi Cohort 16 has officially begun, with 35 new startups joining the National Incubation Center Karachi’s flagship program. Selected from more than 700 applications, these startups represent some of the most promising tech and business ideas from across Pakistan. This is a big step for Pakistan’s growing startup scene.
NIC Karachi Cohort 16: What You Need to Know
The National Incubation Center Karachi, known as NIC Karachi, held its Cohort 16 Orientation Ceremony recently in Karachi. The event marked the formal start of the latest batch of startups entering the incubation program.
The center received over 700 applications this year. Only 35 made it through. That shows how competitive and serious the selection process is.
The selected startups cover a wide range of sectors. These include fintech, health tech, edtech, food, and more. Founders come from different cities across Pakistan, bringing fresh ideas and ambition.
Who Funds and Runs NIC Karachi?
NIC Karachi is funded by Ignite, the National Technology Fund, which works under Pakistan’s Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication. The center is managed by LMKT in partnership with Lucky Landmark Pvt. Ltd.
Orbit Ventures is the international acceleration partner. This partnership gives startups access to global networks, investors, and mentors from outside Pakistan. That kind of exposure is rare and valuable for early-stage founders.
A Strong Track Record
NIC Karachi has a solid history of supporting startups. Over the years, startups incubated here have earned more than Rs. 13 billion in revenue. They have also attracted over Rs. 13 billion in investment. On top of that, they have created thousands of jobs across Pakistan.
These numbers show that NIC Karachi Cohort 16 is joining a program with a real and proven impact.
What Cohort 16 Startups Will Get
Startups in this cohort will get structured support throughout the program. This includes:
- One-on-one mentorship from industry experts
- Business coaching and capacity-building sessions
- A shared workspace to build and test ideas
- Connections to investors and business partners
- International exposure through Orbit Ventures
The goal is simple: help founders build real businesses that can grow and last.
What Leaders Said at the Ceremony
Syed Azfar Hussain, Project Director of NIC Karachi, spoke at the event. He said, “The induction of Cohort 16 marks another important milestone in our journey to strengthen Pakistan’s startup ecosystem. The quality and diversity of ideas we have seen this year reflect the growing entrepreneurial ambition in the country.”
Prof. Dr. Noman Ahmed, Pro Vice Chancellor of NED University of Engineering and Technology, also spoke. He praised NIC Karachi’s role in turning ideas into real businesses. He urged entrepreneurs to use the resources and expert guidance available at the center.
Mr. Ali Asim, Member of the Governance Committee, closed the event. He stressed that NIC Karachi supports startups even after incubation ends. The center helps them find investors, build networks, and grow into bigger markets.
The 35 Startups in NIC Karachi Cohort 16
Here is a look at the startups that made it into NIC Karachi Cohort 16:
- Accountrix The Financial Consultants
- Agahi
- Aitebaar
- Asaan Filer
- Asan Parchi
- Buddy Study
- Campus Rides
- Career Intelligence Labs
- Coretech Innovation
- DigiSlip
- EcoPly
- Eitemaad
- EMERSYS
- FoodLoot
- Gray Scrubs AI
- LikeSpaces
- LooksInsight
- Magitly
- Mayaar
- MedPixel AI
- Momistan
- PanelBot
- PaveItGreen
- Payssenger
- Pixel (and more)
Why This Matters for Pakistan’s Startup Ecosystem
NIC Karachi Cohort 16 is more than just an orientation event. It is a sign that Pakistan’s startup culture is getting stronger. More people are choosing to build businesses. More institutions are stepping up to support them.
With global partners, government backing, and a strong track record, NIC Karachi continues to be one of the most important places for tech founders in Pakistan.
Follow NIC Karachi on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter for updates. You can also visit their official website at www.nickarachi.com and their LinkedIn company page for more details.