In a bold step to reshape Pakistan’s startup scene, Telenor Velocity, the accelerator arm of Telenor Pakistan, has teamed up with Invest2Innovate (i2i).
This partnership merges Telenor’s vast market reach and tech know-how with i2i’s expertise in nurturing entrepreneurs.
It positions Pakistani startups to scale quickly and succeed globally.
Pakistan, a nation where 64% of the population is under 30, stands on the brink of a massive innovation boom.
With nearly 240 million people and a teledensity of 80%, the country is fertile ground for startups.
Yet, despite this potential, a staggering 70% of startups hit roadblocks when it comes to scaling.
In 2023, Pakistani startups secured $81.116 million in venture capital across 39 deals—a figure that, while significant, falls short compared to regional counterparts.
That’s where Telenor Pakistan and i2i come in.
They’re not just offering support; they’re building a robust ecosystem for entrepreneurs at every stage.
Telenor’s 44 million-strong customer base, coupled with cutting-edge tech platforms, offers startups the resources they need to turn ideas into thriving businesses.
The partnership doesn’t stop there—mentorship from industry veterans, comprehensive branding and marketing assistance, and data-driven insights are all part of the package.
Areej Khan, Chief People Officer at Telenor Pakistan, stated, “Pakistan is on the cusp of a digital revolution, and Telenor Pakistan is committed to being at its forefront.
By joining forces with Invest2Innovate, we’re not just supporting startups; we’re investing in the future of our nation.
Together, we’re creating a fertile ground for innovation to flourish, empowering young entrepreneurs to turn their dreams into reality and compete on the global stage.”
Sarah Munir, CEO of Invest2Innovate, added, “We are extremely excited to partner with Telenor Pakistan to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Community and collaboration are at the heart of this venture, and we are committed to providing our startups with an enabling environment and the support they require to succeed and grow.”
This alliance is more than just a partnership; it’s a commitment to Pakistan’s entrepreneurs.
It’s about fostering a culture where business ideas aren’t just born—they thrive.
By joining forces, Telenor Pakistan and i2i are set to make a lasting impact on the startup landscape, driving economic growth and innovation.
This collaboration underscores Telenor Pakistan’s ongoing role as a catalyst for change in the country, building on the momentum of past initiatives like the Startup Mentor’s Network and the GSMA Innovation Fund partnership.
The future is bright, and Pakistan’s startups are ready to shine.
You May Also Like: AI Boom Spurs Accenture’s Optimistic Revenue Forecast for 2024
