New Waves in Investment as Innovation Takes Center Stage
Invest2Innovate (i2i)
An Ecosystem Designed to Foster Innovation, Amplify Impact, and Fuel Growth for Startups!
Hello Community,
As we step into the first Wednesday of the month, we’re excited to bring you our 4th edition of the LinkedIn newsletter, a testament to how fast our LinkedIn community has grown. It’s incredible to see the support and enthusiasm from all of you, driving us to keep our ecosystem connected and engaged.
In this issue, we delve into the current challenges and opportunities in Pakistan’s startup scene amidst global VC funding constraints. We highlight the success of our Investing 101 event, where experts and rising stars came together to explore the investing world. We also shed light on the innovative Earned Wage Access model, with pioneers like Abhi (YC S21) and EZWage leading the charge. Plus, we celebrate CalCart ’s latest funding milestone and welcome Muhammad Qasim , our new Data Research Analyst, to the team.
Stay inspired and connected as we continue to navigate and grow together. Let's dive in!
TL;DR
Turning the Plug on Early-Stage Investors
The global VC funding scene is facing a rough patch, with economic uncertainties, inflation concerns, and geopolitical issues causing investors to play it safe. In Pakistan, we're not only contending with these global challenges but also grappling with our own startup ecosystem's growing pains. With a shortage of local VCs, scarce angel networks, and many startups still seeking the right product-market fit, it’s a tough landscape. However, every challenge brings an opportunity. This could be the perfect moment for local investors to step up and significantly impact our ecosystem.
From the Desk of i2i ??
?? Friday Feature
Ever heard of Earned Wage Access (EWA)? It's shaking things up for the 9-to-5 crowd, letting folks tap into their wages before payday hits. Players like Abhi and EZWage are leading the charge. Curious? Dive into our latest Friday Feature for the full scoop on this game-changing business model.
?? Investing 101: A Resounding Success!
Cheers to an incredible Investing 101 event! We spent the day strengthening Pakistan's angel investor network, unraveling the mysteries of investment, and diving into hands-on mock pitches.
With insights from industry leaders like Barrister Ahmed Uzair of AUC | Law and Abbas Yousafzai from Conrad Labs , and real pitches from startups such as BizB , GoFlour , and Gym Passport , it was a crash course in deal evaluation that left everyone inspired and informed!
Here are highlights from Uzair's and Abbas's fireside chat on becoming a great Angel investor. See here!
?? Celebrating CalCart's Achievement
CalCart is shining bright with its latest funding success from Accelerate Prosperity - An AKDN Initiative ! Fresh out of i2iScale, their innovative AI-powered smart carts—designed to scan items, navigate stores, and offer personalized promotions—have captivated investors. Thanks to the invaluable support from i2iScale mentors, who not only refined their business model but also guided them through a strategic pivot, CalCart is now primed for further growth. This achievement underscores the power of targeted mentorship and strategic support in propelling startups to new heights.
领英推荐
?? Welcome Muhammad Qasim to the Team!
We are thrilled to announce that Muhammad Qasim has joined us as our new Data Research Analyst. Economics graduate with a passion for Data Analytics, Qasim brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to our team. Outside of work, he enjoys diving into non-fiction (especially politics and history), playing football, and spending time with friends. We’re excited to have him on board and look forward to the fresh perspectives he’ll bring
Industry news and highlights ??
Google Cloud sparks Pakistan's startup scene
Google Cloud and Tech Valley just wrapped up their first 'Startup Competition Pakistan 2024'. We're talking 700 entries from over 70 cities, culminating in a grand finale at IBA Karachi with 1,300+ startups and devs in attendance. The competition covered everything from AI and Fintech to Sustainability and E-commerce. Startups got to polish their pitches in major cities across Pakistan.
NIC Peshawar gets a power-up
Big news for Peshawar's tech scene! Ignite has opted for a consortium led by LMKR to run the National Incubation Center, Peshawar (NIC Peshawar) . With partners like Orbit Startups , LMKT , and the Institute of Management Sciences Peshawar (Official) on board, NIC Peshawar is set to be a sanctuary for thriving startups.
i2i Ventures is at it again
IFC - International Finance Corporation has invested $3 million in i2i Ventures ntures. This equity injection, including $1 million from We-Fi, is all about boosting women-led startups and helping them scale up. A big win for diversity in Pakistan's startup ecosystem!
?? What We're Reading/Listening To
And that wraps up our monthly roundup!
Do you have any thoughts, suggestions, or topics you’d love to see covered in future editions? We’d love to hear from you! Drop us a line ?? and make sure to subscribe to our Newsletter!
Cheers,
Marketing & Partnerships Lead, Invest2Innovate (i2i)