Applications are now open for the second cohort of NIC Lahore, providing early-stage startups in Pakistan with a unique opportunity to secure funding, mentorship, global exposure, and support from a robust incubation ecosystem. Backed by Ignite under the Ministry of IT and Telecom Pakistan, NIC Lahore is inviting ambitious founders to join its launchpad program and access a tailored innovation journey designed to help startups scale.

Startups selected for the second cohort will be eligible for grants of up to PKR 5 million, allowing them to accelerate product development, customer acquisition, or market expansion. The program also includes a four-week in-person experience in Silicon Valley, USA, where founders will engage with mentors, investors, and global peers through an international immersion and training component. This exposure aims to build critical knowledge and connections that can shape the growth path of Pakistan’s most promising startups.

NIC Lahore offers a state-of-the-art co-working environment, mentorship from seasoned professionals, and curated investor access. The program is also committed to ensuring diversity and inclusion in Pakistan’s startup landscape, with 25 percent of its cohort slots reserved for women-led ventures. This initiative is in line with NIC Lahore’s broader goal of building a sustainable and inclusive innovation ecosystem that drives economic development through entrepreneurship and digital transformation.

The NIC Lahore incubation platform is operated by a consortium led by NETSOL Technologies and supported by stakeholders including HBL, Plug and Play Tech Center, Daftarkhwan, Beaconhouse National University, Accelerate Prosperity, University of Engineering and Technology Lahore, and Women Chamber of Commerce & Industry. This collaborative framework equips startups with the right environment and expertise to refine their ideas and bring them to market with global ambition.

NIC Lahore is part of the National Incubation Center network managed by Ignite, which continues to foster entrepreneurship and digital innovation across Pakistan. The first cohort from NIC Lahore recently gained international recognition with four of its startups participating in the Plug and Play GOAL Program in Silicon Valley. This momentum reflects the center’s commitment to nurturing startups that can compete and collaborate on a global stage.

Founders interested in applying to the second cohort are encouraged to submit their applications by June 9, 2025, through the official NIC Lahore application portal at https://bit.ly/c2niclahore. The program promises a transformative journey for startups looking to scale with strategic funding, mentorship, and international reach.