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The Higher Education Commission of Pakistan is set to showcase cutting-edge lab-to-market innovations developed through its Rs 2.9 billion Technology Development Fund at a major national event scheduled for December 30. The initiative highlights Pakistan’s growing focus on applied research, commercialization, and industry-led innovation.
According to HEC, the Technology Development Fund was launched under the Public Sector Development Programme with an approved investment of Rs 2.9 billion to transform university-based research into market-ready technologies. Over the years, the programme has emerged as a key driver of technology transfer, linking academic research with industrial and commercial needs.
More than 200 projects have been awarded under the fund, with 192 already completed. These initiatives have resulted in dozens of working prototypes, hundreds of research publications, and a strong portfolio of local and international patents, reflecting the maturity of Pakistan’s applied research ecosystem.
The Technology Development Fund Impact Showcasing 2025 event will bring together industry leaders, investors, policymakers, and researchers to explore more than 100 locally developed technologies. The showcased innovations cover sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, biotechnology, engineering, energy systems, environmental management, and emerging technologies.
HEC officials said the event aims to provide industry and private-sector stakeholders direct access to indigenous solutions that can reduce import dependence, improve productivity, and strengthen local supply chains.
The event also comes at a critical time as Pakistan continues to face challenges related to industrial competitiveness and reliance on imports. HEC noted that the Technology Development Fund has supported startup creation, technology licensing, revenue generation, and job creation across multiple sectors, while also strengthening university infrastructure through advanced research equipment.
A series of panel discussions and expert dialogues will focus on bridging long-standing gaps between research and industry, emphasizing stronger collaboration among universities, businesses, and government institutions.
