LUMS Center for Entrepreneurship (LCE), in collaboration with sAi Venture Capital, is set to host an exclusive panel discussion under its Perspectives by LCE series, focusing on the potential of venture debt in Pakistan’s startup ecosystem. Scheduled for February 12, 2025, at 2:30 PM at the LCE Auditorium, this event will bring together industry leaders, investors, and startup founders to explore how venture debt can serve as a viable financing tool in the country’s evolving entrepreneurial landscape.
Venture debt has gained traction worldwide as an alternative to traditional venture capital, allowing startups to raise funds without diluting ownership. However, its adoption in Pakistan remains limited due to regulatory hurdles, investor awareness, and structural challenges. This panel discussion will delve into the viability of venture debt for Pakistani startups, the appetite of investors for non-dilutive funding options, and the regulatory framework necessary for its broader adoption. Additionally, the conversation will highlight the key differences between venture debt and equity financing, offering valuable insights for both entrepreneurs and investors.
The panel will feature industry experts with extensive experience in investment and financial structuring. Ahsan Jamil, Managing General Partner at sAi Venture Capital, will bring insights into the investor perspective, while Ahmed Khan, CEO of Punjab Skills Development Fund (PSDF), will discuss the implications for economic development. Samar Masood, Partner at ABS & Co and a board member at Engro Corp and Stylers International, will provide legal and regulatory expertise, and Taimur Malik, Co-Founder of PakLaunch and Senior Partner at Kilam Law, will offer a broader view of Pakistan’s investment climate and financial ecosystem.
Pakistan’s startup ecosystem has experienced significant growth in recent years, with increased funding activity driving innovation across multiple sectors. While equity financing has traditionally been the go-to model for startups, venture debt is emerging as a promising alternative, allowing companies to secure additional capital while maintaining greater control over their operations. For investors, it offers a lower-risk funding option with stable returns, particularly in uncertain economic conditions. The discussion at LCE aims to demystify venture debt and explore how it can be effectively integrated into Pakistan’s financial ecosystem.
With a diverse audience of startup founders, investors, policymakers, and finance professionals expected to attend, the event promises to be a significant step toward building awareness and fostering informed decision-making around alternative financing models. As Pakistan’s entrepreneurial ecosystem continues to mature, financing mechanisms such as venture debt could play a crucial role in sustaining long-term growth. Platforms like Perspectives by LCE serve as catalysts for such conversations, driving investment innovation and helping startups navigate their funding options effectively.
For those interested in understanding the role of venture debt in Pakistan’s startup landscape, this event presents a unique opportunity to engage with experts and gain valuable insights. Registration is now open, and attendees can secure their spot by signing up at https://lnkd.in/d58xhiVz.
