Pakistan signed a Letter of Intent with Silicon Valley-based Plug and Play Tech Center to strengthen its startup ecosystem. The deal expands local access to global mentorship, investment, and international innovation networks. It marks a major step in linking Pakistani entrepreneurs with Silicon Valley.
Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal witnessed the agreement. He signed it during a visit to Plug and Play’s California headquarters. There he met Founder and Chief Executive Officer Saeed Amidi to discuss long-term collaboration in technology and entrepreneurship.
Under the partnership, Plug and Play intends to set up operations in Islamabad and Karachi. The company plans to build innovation hubs in both cities. These hubs will support emerging technology ventures and strengthen the country’s entrepreneurial base.
The program will provide acceleration opportunities for 300 startups from leading Pakistani universities. It will connect them with global investors, industry experts, and corporate partners. Participating startups will access a worldwide network of more than 600 multinational companies. That exposure creates openings for mentorship, strategic partnerships, and entry into international markets.
The collaboration also aims to drive innovation-led economic growth. It encourages entrepreneurship and supports the adoption of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence. Officials framed it as part of a wider push to strengthen the digital economy.
Ahsan Iqbal said the government remains committed to creating opportunities for young entrepreneurs. He noted that global partnerships help Pakistani startups grow beyond domestic markets while building solutions at home. The deal is expected to improve investment access and speed the commercialization of technology businesses.
Officials called the initiative another step toward positioning Pakistan as a knowledge-based economy. The plan fosters innovation, supports technology-driven enterprises, and encourages greater global engagement for local startups. Plug and Play’s arrival signals rising international interest in Pakistan’s tech sector.
