What is this program?
The National Fintech & Web3 Startup Program 2026 is a nationwide startup selection and incubation initiative hosted by The Accounting Lab of School of Business Studies – IBA Karachi and Centre for Entrepreneurship Development (CED) – IBA Karachi. It is designed to identify three high-potential student-led fintech or Web3 startups, support them through a 2.5-month incubation program, and prepare them for investor presentations at a national showcase.
Is this a hackathon?
No. This is not a hackathon or a pitch competition. It is a structured startup development and investment pipeline focused on building real, investable businesses with support in business strategy, product development, legal compliance, financial modeling, and investor readiness.
Who is eligible?
The program is open to currently enrolled students from universities, colleges, and schools across Pakistan. Each team must have at least five active students, and students from all disciplines are welcome, including business, finance, engineering, computer science, economics, and marketing.
Can students from different universities form a team?
Yes. Teams can include students from different universities or institutions, as long as all members are currently enrolled at recognized educational institutions in Pakistan.
What does the application require?
Applications require team information, including names, institutions, disciplines, and roles; a one-page concept note explaining the problem, solution, customer segment, and initial business model; a 2–3 minute team introduction video; and the selection of the startup’s main business track.
How will teams be selected?
The selection process has two rounds. In Round 1, the Selection Committee reviews concept notes and videos, focusing on problem clarity, commercial potential, customer understanding, and team composition. Shortlisted teams then move to Round 2, where they participate in a live evaluation session with the Selection Committee and Investors Council. Three startups are ultimately selected for incubation.
When will we hear back?
Applications close on May 15, 2026. The selection process runs from May 16 to May 31, and shortlisted teams are expected to hear back by late May. Finalist announcements will be made in early June 2026.
Can we apply if our idea is still early-stage?
Yes. The program is designed for early-stage ideas and startups. Applicants are not expected to have a finished product. What matters most is identifying a real market problem, showing a clear customer segment, and presenting a viable business model with strong potential.
What does the incubation involve?
The incubation program includes business model refinement, financial modeling, go-to-market planning, MVP development, UI/UX feedback, legal and regulatory support, smart contract or technical guidance where applicable, investor preparation, and mentorship from industry experts. Teams also receive support in preparing for due diligence and investor presentations.
Is it in-person?
Yes. The incubation program is based at the IBA City Campus in Karachi and is designed as a full-time, milestone-driven, in-person experience from June to August 2026.
What happens at the September Showcase?
At the September Showcase, all three selected startups present their ventures to investors, venture capital firms, angel networks, industry leaders and media. Each team gives a 10-minute presentation followed by a 10-minute Q&A session, covering their business model, product demo, market opportunity, financial projections, and growth plans.
National Fintech & Web3 Startup Program 2026 — Institute of Business Administration, Karachi