NIC Karachi, in collaboration with Orbit Ventures, hosted the first session of the Acceleration Program for Cohort 2, offering early-stage startups an in-depth workshop on Fundraising 101. The session, led by Hiruy Ephrem, Senior Associate at Orbit Ventures, provided five selected startups with critical knowledge and practical tools to navigate the initial stages of raising capital. Founders engaged with the workshop to gain a comprehensive understanding of different investor types, learning how each evaluates opportunities and what factors influence investment decisions.
The session also focused on preparing essential fundraising documents, emphasizing the importance of clarity, conviction, and structured communication when presenting business plans and financial models. Founders learned how to showcase their startup’s vision while aligning short-term objectives with realistic milestones, ensuring that their pitch resonates with potential investors. By decoding investor expectations and motivations, the workshop aimed to equip participants with the confidence and skills needed to approach early-stage fundraising strategically.
Beyond documents and strategy, founders explored practical approaches to building a capital roadmap tailored to their startup’s growth trajectory. The workshop emphasized the need for a cohesive strategy that balances immediate funding requirements with long-term vision, teaching participants how to sequence investment rounds, prioritize investor relationships, and maintain transparency throughout the fundraising process. Discussions also included understanding the dynamics of equity, convertible notes, and other instruments commonly used in early-stage financing.
The Acceleration Program underscores NIC Karachi’s commitment to preparing founders for the challenges of early-stage entrepreneurship by providing structured learning, mentorship, and exposure to experienced venture professionals. By integrating hands-on workshops with mentorship support, the program enables startups to build a strong foundation for sustainable growth and successful fundraising outcomes. Cohort 2 participants left the session with actionable insights, practical tools, and enhanced confidence to engage with investors, marking a pivotal step in their journey toward scaling their ventures and achieving long-term impact in Pakistan’s startup ecosystem.
Follow the SPIN IDG WhatsApp Channel for updates across the Smart Pakistan Insights Network covering all of Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.