NICAT announces hi-tech programme for startups

Islamabad:The National Incubation Centre for Aerospace Technologies (NICAT)-Pakistan's first-of-its-kind aerospace and deep-tech innovation hub has announced the opening of applications for its Cohort 5. This fully-funded, one-year incubation and acceleration programme is tailored for startups with MVPs, prototypes, or ready-to-scale solutions, enabling them to innovate, grow, and thrive.

NICAT is a project funded by the Ministry of IT & Telecom through Ignite - National Technology Fund and implemented by a Netsol-led consortium that consists of NASTP, Air University, and PAC Kamra.

Since its inception in 2022, NICAT has achieved remarkable milestones: incubating 58 startups, facilitating over Rs1.2 billion in committed investments, more than Rs1.75 billion in startup revenue, and creating 2,500 jobs. Additionally, NICAT has proudly represented Pakistan on numerous international forums during this short span.

"Our vision is to establish Pakistan's premier hi-tech valley-a thriving ecosystem where startups, innovators, and change-makers can transform groundbreaking ideas into impactful solutions," said Ayub Ghauri, president NICAT. "NICAT has already created immense impact over the years, and with Cohort 5, we aim to build on this foundation by continuing to empower startups to achieve their full potential."

Adeel Aijaz Shaikh, CEO Ignite added, "We are proud to support NICAT in its mission to transform Pakistan into a global hub for aerospace and deep-tech innovation. Through this program, we aim to foster ground-breaking startups that not only drive economic growth but also position Pakistan at the forefront of technological advancement. Cohort 5 is an incredible opportunity for innovators to scale their solutions and contribute to a digitally empowered, future-ready nation."