Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) hosted a roundtable discussion with startups from National Incubation Center (NIC) Hyderabad as part of its ongoing Investor Readiness Series, aiming to bridge the gap between Pakistan’s capital markets and the country’s dynamic startup ecosystem. The initiative reflects PSX’s growing commitment to empowering early-stage companies with knowledge and access to alternative funding avenues.
Led by Abbas Syed Ahmad, Chief Listing Officer at PSX, the session introduced participants to the array of funding opportunities available through the exchange, particularly the Growth Enterprise Market (GEM) board. The discussion highlighted how startups can transition from private limited to public limited companies, a move that allows them to attract institutional investors and raise growth capital through the formal market.
Startups attending the session gained practical insight into the requirements and procedures involved in listing on the GEM board. The platform was designed to cater to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and early-stage ventures that demonstrate innovation and scalability. PSX representatives emphasized that the GEM board offers a more flexible regulatory framework compared to the Main Board, making it a viable path for startups seeking transparency and investor confidence while maintaining operational agility.
Many of the participating founders expressed that the roundtable provided much-needed clarity on capital market opportunities, especially in terms of investor engagement, compliance preparation, and valuation benchmarks. The open discussion format encouraged direct dialogue between startup founders and PSX officials, allowing entrepreneurs to seek guidance on specific challenges faced during their growth journey.
The collaboration with NIC Hyderabad marks an important milestone in Pakistan’s efforts to connect the entrepreneurial and financial sectors. NIC Hyderabad, which operates under the umbrella of the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication (MOITT), Ignite – National Technology Fund, and LMKT, has been instrumental in nurturing early-stage ventures through incubation, mentorship, and access to investors. By joining forces with PSX, NIC Hyderabad is helping founders understand the long-term advantages of formalizing their business structures and exploring non-traditional funding mechanisms.
Through the Investor Readiness Series, PSX aims to build greater awareness among entrepreneurs about the benefits of capital market participation. The initiative aligns with national goals of promoting financial inclusion, strengthening the documentation of businesses, and creating a sustainable investment pipeline for Pakistan’s innovation-driven enterprises.
The roundtable reaffirmed PSX’s position as a key enabler of entrepreneurial growth and investor confidence, while NIC Hyderabad continues to serve as a crucial platform for grooming the next generation of Pakistani founders ready to scale and compete in both local and international markets. Together, such efforts are contributing to the development of a more connected and investment-ready startup ecosystem across the country.
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