NIC Karachi is strengthening the security posture of emerging startups through a dedicated Cybersecurity Track, featuring an intensive session on penetration testing designed to help founders proactively address digital vulnerabilities. As cyber threats continue to evolve, the focus on securing digital products and platforms has become increasingly critical for early-stage ventures operating in technology-driven markets.
The specialized session will provide practical exercises aimed at enabling founders to identify, assess, and mitigate potential weaknesses in their systems. By incorporating real-world scenarios into the curriculum, the initiative ensures that startups gain hands-on exposure to modern security practices rather than relying solely on theoretical knowledge. This approach aligns with the broader objective of helping Pakistani startups build resilient and trustworthy digital products from the outset.
To lead the session, NIC Karachi is welcoming expert mentors from House of Habib. Zeeshan Ali, Manager Information Security at House of Habib, and Konain Sohail, Assistant Manager at House of Habib, will share their industry experience and insights into protecting digital assets against emerging threats. Their participation reflects the growing collaboration between established corporate institutions and startup incubation centers to elevate cybersecurity standards within the ecosystem.
The penetration testing deep dive is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, 17th February 2026, at 4:30 PM at NIC Karachi. The session is part of the center’s structured support for Cohort 14 startups, ensuring that founders not only scale their innovations but also secure them effectively. By embedding cybersecurity into its programming, NIC Karachi underscores the importance of safeguarding customer data, maintaining compliance, and protecting intellectual property as startups expand their operations.
NIC Karachi operates with support from key ecosystem partners including Ministry of IT and Telecommunication Pakistan, Ignite – National Technology Fund, LMKT, LuckyOne Mall, and Orbit Ventures. These collaborations enable the incubation center to provide comprehensive guidance that spans product development, business strategy, and risk management.
As digital transformation accelerates across industries, initiatives such as this cybersecurity track highlight the growing awareness among Pakistani startups about the necessity of secure digital foundations. Founders interested in strengthening their security capabilities can register for the session through the provided link. By prioritizing penetration testing and proactive defense strategies, NIC Karachi aims to help startups protect their innovations while building sustainable and secure growth trajectories within Pakistan’s evolving technology ecosystem.
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