Executive Summary
Regional Plan9 is a tech incubator initiative by the Government of Punjab, aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and innovation. It offers early to mid-stage startups zero-equity support, including a monthly stipend, legal guidance, office space, business model development, mentorship, and networking opportunities. The program has created over 4,700 jobs, graduated 364 startups, and facilitated 540 startups across 9 centers in Punjab through its 6-month incubation cycles. Key features include the Launchpad application process, extensive training, and pitching events to support startups' growth and market entry.
For more information, visit Regional Plan 9
Services Provided:
Regional Plan9, a project by the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB), offers a variety of services aimed at fostering tech entrepreneurship:
- Zero-Equity Support: Startups receive support without giving up any equity
- Monthly Stipend: Financial assistance is provided to help cover operational costs
- Office Space: Free co-working spaces are available, suitable for small teams
- Mentorship: Access to experienced mentors who offer guidance on business development
- Business Model Development: Assistance with creating sustainable business strategies
- Legal Guidance: In-house legal support for company registration, patent filing, and other legal needs
- Networking Opportunities: Connections with a network of alumni, investors, and partners
Application Process:
1. Idea Submission: Submit a tech-based business idea through the online application form
2. Shortlisting: Applications are reviewed and shortlisted based on the viability and innovation of the idea
3. Pitch at The Launchpad: Shortlisted startups present their ideas at The Launchpad event
4. Incubation: Selected startups are incubated for six months, receiving various forms of support to scale their business
Who Should Apply and Why:
- Eligibility: Pakistani nationals aged 18 and above with an innovative tech idea in any industry can apply. Teams should ideally have a CEO and CTO with relevant domain expertise
- Benefits: Startups benefit from zero-equity support, financial aid, professional office space, mentorship, legal advice, and networking opportunities. This holistic support structure aims to accelerate market entry and sustainable growth
Incubation Process:
The incubation process is structured over a six-month cycle, offering comprehensive support:
1. Training and Workshops: Startups undergo rigorous training and workshops to enhance their skills
2. Mentorship: Continuous mentorship is provided to refine business strategies and operations
3. Networking Events: Opportunities to network with industry professionals, investors, and alumni
4. Pitch Events: Startups participate in pitch events to attract potential investors and partners
Locations:
Regional Plan9 operates across multiple cities in Punjab, including:
- Bahawalpur
- DG Khan
- Faisalabad
- Gujranwala
- Lahore
- Multan
- Rawalpindi
- Sahiwal
- Sargodha
- Kamra (NASTP)
- Kharian (NASTP)
Due Dates for 2024:
The specific application deadlines for 2024 have not been published yet. However, interested applicants should regularly check the Regional Plan9 website for updates and announcements regarding application windows and other important dates.