National Incubation Center for Aerospace Technologies (NICAT)—Pakistan’s first-of-its-kind aerospace and deep-tech innovation hub—is thrilled to announce the opening of applications for its Cohort 5. This fully-funded, one-year incubation and acceleration program 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 PKR 1.2 billion in committed investments, more than PKR 1.75 billion in startup revenue, and creating 2,500 jobs. Additionally, NICAT has proudly represented Pakistan on numerous international forums during this short span.
With unparalleled access to industry-leading consortium partners spanning the private, public, academic, and defense sector organizations, NICAT offers startups with a vibrant coworking space within the NASTP ecosystem, offering direct linkages to their design labs, testing facilities, and experts. Startups benefit from a comprehensive growth framework, which includes funding opportunities, mentorship, regulatory guidance, market access, and global recognition through media exposure. With a vibrant network of startups, mentors, and investors, NICAT provides the perfect launchpad for driving solutions that address critical challenges and shape a digitally empowered Pakistan.
Innovative startups working in diverse fields, including Aerospace, Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), Blockchain, Bio-Tech, Fin-Tech, Clean-Tech, Ed-tech, Logistics, Manufacturing, Gaming, Mixed Reality, Agriculture, and those contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are encouraged to apply for the program. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusivity, NICAT takes pride in supporting women entrepreneurs and differently-abled individuals, creating equal opportunities for people from all walks of life.
“Our vision is to establish Pakistan’s premier hi-tech valley—a thriving ecosystem where startups, innovators, and changemakers 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.”
With two cohorts successfully graduated and the third and fourth currently incubated, NICAT is now gearing up to welcome a diverse community of leaders and innovators in its fifth cohort, united by their vision of building a better future!
Startups ready to take their ideas to the next level are encouraged to apply for Cohort 5. Applications are open now, with the deadline for submissions set for 15th February 2025.
Apply today: https://bit.ly/NICATC5
For more information visit: https://nicat.pk/
