Pakistani startups are increasingly gaining recognition on international platforms, moving beyond the “emerging” label to actively competing on the global stage. NIC Islamabad marked a significant milestone at the Pakistan Pavilion, Davos, where the CITADEL Pakistan Davos Startup Challenge 2026 brought together some of the most ambitious founders shaping solutions for global markets. Startups from AI, FinTech, HealthTech, and EdTech sectors demonstrated how Pakistan’s entrepreneurial ecosystem is rapidly evolving, offering innovations that meet international standards and demand.
Among the startups representing Pakistan, NIC Islamabad proudly announced three selections in the Top-8 of the challenge. Ai Team Force, founded by Mohib Mirza, is leveraging AI-driven automation to help SMEs generate leads, manage relationships, and scale their businesses efficiently across international markets. EKKO, co-founded by Ismail Nasir, is reshaping Pakistan’s HealthTech landscape by connecting patients, practitioners, and institutions through intelligent digital solutions, enhancing accessibility and efficiency in healthcare delivery. Edversity, led by Saad Ghufran Siddiqui, focuses on upskilling and reskilling for the global digital economy through AI, Blockchain, and Web3 technologies, redefining Pakistan’s EdTech sector.
The CITADEL Pakistan Davos Startup Challenge provided these startups with more than just visibility. Participation in this high-profile global event offered opportunities for strategic partnerships, credibility in international networks, and a platform to present ideas directly to investors, industry leaders, and potential collaborators. Such exposure is critical for startups aiming to scale beyond local markets, demonstrating Pakistan’s ability to produce founders and teams capable of solving global problems with innovative, scalable solutions.
NIC Islamabad’s role in preparing these startups for global engagement reflects its ongoing commitment to building an ecosystem where local innovation can compete internationally. By offering mentorship, access to resources, and a network of peers and experts, NIC Islamabad helps founders navigate the complexities of scaling, securing funding, and establishing global market presence. Applications for NIC Islamabad Cohort 5 are now open, inviting startups to join a community designed to support international growth, enhance collaboration, and transform ideas into impactful ventures. The event in Davos showcased that with the right support, Pakistan’s startups are ready to compete and thrive on the world stage.
Startups interested in global growth can apply at NIC Islamabad and access programs that equip them to scale, connect, and compete internationally. For those aiming to make an impact beyond local borders, platforms like CITADEL Pakistan and NIC Islamabad offer critical exposure and tools necessary for long-term success.
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