NIC Karachi recently hosted a focused coaching session on intellectual property for startups, emphasizing the critical role of IP in securing innovation and building sustainable ventures. Dr. Owais H. Shaikh, Managing Partner at Hassan Shaikh & Company – HSCO, led the session, sharing hands-on guidance and practical insights to help founders navigate the complex landscape of patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, and compliance requirements. The session was structured to provide startups with actionable knowledge that can be applied at every stage of business development, from early concept validation to scaling operations and attracting investment.
Founders attending the session explored how intellectual property forms the foundation of long-term business strategy, investor confidence, and competitive differentiation. Dr. Owais guided participants through the process of identifying key IP assets, understanding potential infringement risks, and implementing effective strategies to safeguard innovations. The session highlighted the importance of embedding IP considerations into every stage of product development, ensuring that startups are better equipped to navigate legal challenges and protect their proprietary technologies.
Beyond technical explanations, the coaching emphasized practical application, with real-world examples that showcased common pitfalls startups face and best practices for compliance. Participants gained clarity on how to balance innovation with legal obligations, structure IP portfolios, and leverage intellectual property as a strategic asset for growth and market positioning. By focusing on actionable steps, the session aimed to build both awareness and capability among founders, helping them translate knowledge into concrete actions that secure value for their ventures.
NIC Karachi’s initiative reflects a broader commitment to supporting early-stage startups with education and resources that go beyond funding and networking. Coaching sessions like this equip founders with essential skills and legal frameworks, ensuring they are prepared to scale responsibly, manage risks, and attract investment. By engaging with expert mentors like Dr. Owais H. Shaikh, startups gain access to guidance that aligns legal understanding with business objectives, reinforcing the importance of structured, founder-first approaches to growth. This focus on intellectual property underlines NIC Karachi’s role as a hub for innovation, where startups can strengthen their foundations and position themselves for long-term success in Pakistan’s evolving entrepreneurial ecosystem.
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