Telenor Velocity, STZA and Invest2Innovate Host Roundtable to Address Funding Challenges in Pakistan’s Startup Ecosystem

Telenor Velocity, in partnership with the Special Technology Zones Authority (STZA) and Invest2Innovate (i2i), successfully hosted a thought-provoking roundtable discussion during the prestigious +92Disrupt 2024. The session, centered on the theme “From Idea to Impact: Closing the Funding Gap in Pakistan’s Startup Ecosystem.

The roundtable brought together 36 thought leaders representing investors, startups, corporates, entrepreneurial support organizations and policymakers to discuss building a robust startup funding ecosystem. Discussions focused on attracting domestic and foreign investment through policy consistency, tax incentives and regulatory reforms. Participants emphasized diversifying funding sources, fostering startup sustainability and enhancing investment readiness through skilled talent, infrastructure, and business support. Collaboration among stakeholders was highlighted as key to driving economic growth.

Areej Khan, Chief People Officer, Telenor Pakistan, emphasized: “At Telenor Velocity, we understand that startups are the backbone of innovation and economic growth. By hosting this Roundtable, we aim to address critical challenges, such as the funding gap and bring together key stakeholders to create actionable strategies that empower Pakistani startups to succeed on a global scale.”

Highlighting the significance of this initiative, Sarah Munir, CEO, Invest2Innovate (i2i) stated, “Platforms like this roundtable are key to spotting and addressing the funding challenges in Pakistan. At i2i, we aim to connect and collaborate with different stakeholders to build a more sustainable and inclusive future for entrepreneurship.”

Echoing this sentiment, Hamza Saeed Orakzai, Chief Market Development Officer, Special Technology Zones Authority (STZA), remarked, “The STZA is committed to fostering a conducive environment for startups by providing incentives, regulatory support and access to infrastructure. This roundtable exemplifies how collaboration among government, corporate entities and the private sector can accelerate Pakistan’s innovation-driven economy.”

The +92Disrupt 2024 Conference provided a dynamic platform for this pivotal dialogue, uniting entrepreneurs, investors, industry leaders and policymakers to exchange ideas, showcase innovations and explore collaborative opportunities. Telenor Velocity’s participation reaffirms its commitment to nurturing Pakistan’s entrepreneurial landscape and driving impactful change.

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