Sialkot’s 9th NIC: Boosting Pakistan’s Startup Ecosystem

Ignite Gears Up for Establishment of 9th National Incubation Center in Sialkot

Exciting news for Pakistan’s startup ecosystem! Ignite National Technology Fund has extended the deadline for firms to submit proposals to establish and manage the new National Incubation Center (NIC) in Sialkot. The new closing date is September 9, 2025, giving interested parties more time to craft their best ideas for this groundbreaking project.

The selection process for the NIC Sialkot will be a two-stage rigorous evaluation. First, a committee will meticulously review technical bids. Following this, the financial proposals of only the qualified firms will be assessed. The contract will be awarded to the highest-ranked bidder, determined by a weighted combination of their technical and financial scores, after successful negotiations. Anticipate an official announcement at least two weeks before the final contract signing.

Imagine a vibrant hub stretching between 12,000 to 14,000 square feet, capable of nurturing at least 25 startups simultaneously, with room to grow! This future NIC Sialkot is envisioned to be a state-of-the-art facility, complete with modern conference rooms, a dynamic session hall, dedicated recreational spaces, and blazing-fast internet. It will operate on a cohort basis, committing to inducting a minimum of 25 startups annually. A key focus will be on diversity and local relevance: 25% of these inducted startups will be women-led, and there will be a strong emphasis on ventures aligning with Sialkot’s world-renowned industrial strengths, such as sports goods, surgical instruments, and musical instruments.

Why Sialkot? This city is a true economic powerhouse! Ranking as the fourth-largest district economy in Pakistan, with a staggering GDP of $13 billion, Sialkot is globally recognized for its manufacturing prowess. It contributes approximately $2.5 billion annually in exports, accounting for nearly 10% of the entire country’s total! From producing over half of the world’s footballs to supplying critical surgical instruments to international markets, Sialkot’s thousands of small and medium enterprises are legendary. Global giants like Nike, Adidas, and Puma have long relied on Sialkot’s industries for their products, showcasing the city’s unparalleled quality and innovation.

The NIC Sialkot will be a pivotal addition, marking the ninth such center in Ignite’s ambitious nationwide network, established in collaboration with the Ministry of IT and Telecom. This expanding network already includes successful centers in Islamabad, various provincial capitals, Hyderabad, Faisalabad, and Rawalpindi. These facilities are crucial in providing vital support to budding startups and seasoned entrepreneurs alike, fostering innovation across a diverse array of sectors, including agriculture, textiles, cement, aerospace, and livestock. This latest center will further solidify Pakistan’s commitment to building a robust and vibrant startup ecosystem.