Fintech & Payments
Solutions expanding financial access, digital payments, lending, and insurance for Pakistan's underserved markets.
Pakistan Conference at Harvard 2026
Innovation & Ideas Forum
A startup pitch competition showcasing Pakistan's most promising founders. Pitch your venture to leading VCs and operators on the Harvard stage.
The Competition
$10,000 USD Non-Dilutive Prize
Sponsored by the Pakistan Business Council, the Innovation & Ideas Forum invites early-stage founders building for Pakistan to pitch live at the Pakistan Conference at Harvard 2026.
Selected startups will present to a panel of venture capitalists, operators, and industry leaders. The winning team receives a $10,000 USD non-dilutive cash prize - no equity taken, no strings attached.
Focus Areas
What We're Looking For
Climate Resilience
Technology addressing climate adaptation, clean energy, water management, and sustainable agriculture in Pakistan.
SME Digitization & Productivity
Tools helping small and medium enterprises digitize operations, access markets, and improve productivity.
Scalable Infrastructure
Platforms building logistics, supply chain, healthcare delivery, or education infrastructure that can scale nationally.
Eligibility
Who Can Apply
- At least one co-founder must be Pakistani or of Pakistani origin
- Working MVP or early traction required
- Less than $1M in total funding raised to date
- Must be available to pitch live at Harvard on April 12, 2026
- Startups at pre-seed or seed stage preferred
Ready to Pitch?
Applications are now open. Submit your venture for consideration by the selection committee.
Apply NowBeyond the Competition
More at the Conference
Qawwali Night
An evening celebrating the Sufi qawwali tradition - a cultural centerpiece of the conference experience.
Poetry & Art Display
Contemporary Pakistani art and literary works showcased alongside the conference proceedings.
More to Come
More announcements to follow. Stay tuned for the full conference program.