NIC Karachi hosted an insightful guidance session for aspiring startup founders preparing to apply for Cohort 15, offering detailed support on navigating the application process. Andeel Ali, Head of Monitoring and Evaluation at NIC Karachi, led the session, emphasizing the importance of clarity and structure when presenting ideas to evaluators. Participants gained valuable insights into how to articulate their startup concepts effectively, avoid common mistakes, and demonstrate the potential of their ventures convincingly. The session served as a timely resource for founders who had been eagerly awaiting the opening of applications, providing both practical advice and confidence to submit strong proposals.
During the session, Ali outlined the key elements evaluators look for in a successful application, focusing on clarity, coherence, and alignment with the goals of NIC Karachi’s startup program. Founders were encouraged to present their ideas concisely, highlight unique value propositions, and ensure that each section of the application addressed the specific criteria set by the review committee. By breaking down the application form step by step, Ali provided a structured approach that helped reduce uncertainty and equip participants with the tools needed to craft compelling submissions. Founders were also advised on common pitfalls that can weaken an application, such as vague descriptions, incomplete information, or misaligned goals.
The session underscored NIC Karachi’s commitment to founder-first support and capacity building within Pakistan’s startup ecosystem. By offering mentorship and practical guidance at an early stage, the organization helps entrepreneurs navigate challenges and present their ventures in the best possible light. Founders who attended the session reported that the discussion provided clarity on how to frame their ideas, structure their responses, and address evaluation criteria effectively. The interactive format allowed participants to ask questions and receive personalized feedback, enhancing their understanding of the application process and boosting their readiness to submit completed applications.
For those unable to attend the live session, NIC Karachi has made the full walkthrough available online, enabling all potential applicants to benefit from the guidance shared by Andeel Ali. By combining mentorship, practical tools, and transparent guidance, NIC Karachi continues to empower early-stage startups to pursue opportunities confidently, build strong foundations for their ventures, and engage effectively with programs like Cohort 15. Interested founders can access the session and apply here, ensuring they have the support needed to put forward their most compelling applications.
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