National Incubation Centers have supported thousands of startups across Pakistan since 2017. The centers have also created more than 185,000 Jobs.
The figures were shared by the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication. The centers were established and funded by Ignite.
According to official data, the NIC network has incubated more than 2,250 startups. These businesses have generated over Rs. 36.3 billion in revenue.
The startups have also attracted significant investment from local and international investors. Their total investment has crossed Rs. 34.7 billion.
Women entrepreneurs have also gained a strong presence in the incubation network. Around 31 percent of incubated startups are led by women.
This represents approximately 700 women-led startups across the country. The figures highlight growing participation in Pakistan’s technology sector.
The NIC network operates in several major cities. These include Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, Quetta and Rawalpindi.
The network also has centers in Faisalabad and Hyderabad. Ignite has established NICs across all provinces and the federal capital.
Some centers focus on specific industries and emerging technologies. Rawalpindi hosts an aerospace-focused incubation center.
Faisalabad also has a specialized agri-tech incubator. These facilities aim to support startups working in targeted technology sectors.
A ninth National Incubation Center is currently being established in Sialkot. The new center is expected to begin operations soon.
Its launch will expand access to startup support and incubation services. More entrepreneurs will gain access to business development opportunities.
The government is also supporting startups through the Pakistan Startup Fund. The program provides equity-free grants to eligible startups.
Ignite has selected three startups in the latest investment grant round. The initiative aims to help businesses raise capital and expand.
The grants allow founders to receive funding without giving up equity. This can help startups grow while maintaining ownership.
The NIC network has also expanded support beyond traditional startup incubation. Ignite has established two Centers of Excellence for Gaming and Animation.
These centers are located in Lahore and Karachi. They became operational in November 2025.
The facilities provide training, mentorship and infrastructure for aspiring professionals. They focus on developing talent in gaming and animation.
The initiatives are also designed to strengthen Pakistan’s technology ecosystem. They support innovation, entrepreneurship and skills development across the country.
The latest figures show the wider economic impact of startup incubation. The Jobs created through NIC-backed businesses also reflect growing entrepreneurial activity.
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With the Sialkot center expected to open soon, the network will continue expanding. This could provide more opportunities for startups and Jobs nationwide.
