FPCCI to support startups with investment facilitation

KARACHI: The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) has announced its support for university students and entrepreneurs with innovative ideas to promote startups in the country.

The FPCCI leadership, at a press conference on Monday, said that the organisation would facilitate investment for startups through its network of over 500 leading businessmen across Pakistan.

This initiative aims to address capital shortages for emerging talent and ideas, ultimately fostering job creation. The LaunchPad Pakistan 2025 event is scheduled to take place on April 19. Speaking at the press conference, FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh described the initiative as a game-changer, highlighting its role in connecting startups with investors. He reiterated that more than 500 major business leaders from across the country would engage with startups to support their growth. Addressing the event, Sindh Minister for Industries and Commerce Jam Ikramullah Khan Dharejo expressed the Sindh government’s full support for the initiative. He noted that new industrial zones were being developed in Karachi and Sindh, attracting investment from other provinces.

He also refuted claims that industries from Karachi or rural Sindh were relocating to Punjab. Business community members at the event highlighted that, given the shortage of jobs in the country, startups provide young people with opportunities to launch their own businesses.

Patron-in-Chief of the United Business Group SM Tanveer urged the business community to support students, universities and startups, emphasising the need for collaboration. Meanwhile, FPCCI Senior Vice President Saqib Fayaz said that new talent matching would be facilitated through roundtable conferences and online portals, ensuring better connectivity between entrepreneurs and investors.