Islamabad, Aug 22: The Rising Stars Startup Competition grand finale was held at NUST, Islamabad, by the National Science & Technology Park and the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan. A startup competition called #RSSC is open to Pakistani women and minority business owners.
After a thorough review procedure, 26 outstanding teams were chosen from over 300 competitors around Pakistan for the final stage. At the Grand Finale, these teams showcased their innovative concepts and spirit of entrepreneurship. There was also an interesting expo at the event, giving attendees a chance to present their creative ideas and solutions.
Over PKR 6 million in prizes, including computers and seed money, were up for grabs in this tournament. It honored one exceptional performer, six regional champions, and four national winners.There were 23 women, 2 men, and 1 transgender person among the finalists, representing a range of religious and ethnic origins.
The honoree at the occasion was Andrew Schofer, the Deputy Chief of Mission for Pakistan. “The U.S. Mission to Pakistan is proud to be part of cultivating a vibrant ecosystem of entrepreneurship in Pakistan and empowering young people to dream big, take risks, and become the job creators and change-makers that Pakistan needs,” the Deputy Chief of Mission stated in his opening remarks. The U.S. Embassy has provided $14.7 million in funding for over 181 programs connected to entrepreneurship since 2012.
Pro-Rector of NUST Dr. Rizwan Riaz appreciated the U.S. government’s efforts to promote entrepreneurship in Pakistan during his speech.Dr. Rizwan Riaz conveyed gratitude for the continued partnership between NUST and the U.S. Embassy in promoting diversity and inclusivity, as well as increasing the number of varied leaders in Pakistan’s entrepreneurial sector who support the country’s long-term economic development.
The “Rising Stars of Pakistan” initiative, which is supported by the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, is a partnership between #NSTP (NUST) and Draper University in California. Silicon Valley-based Pakistani American specialists serve as mentors for the up-and-coming Pakistani entrepreneurs. The program’s outreach partner was Pak Mission Society.
