The U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, in collaboration with the National Science & Technology Park (NSTP), is thrilled to announce the second cohort of the Rising Startup Success Challenge (RSSC). This 9-month program is designed to support female founders and business owners from minority groups seeking seed funding and mentorship.

The RSSC program offers invaluable opportunities aimed at empowering entrepreneurs from minority communities and women, promoting diversity and inclusivity within the business ecosystem. Winners of the competition will receive PKR 1 million in seed funding and a fully funded visit to the United States to explore innovation hubs and connect with experts. The program also includes comprehensive startup training and one-on-one mentorship, ensuring participants gain valuable insights to grow their businesses.

A highlight of the program is the access to the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) and its NSTP Innovation Ecosystem. NUST, a leading academic institution in Pakistan, has a rich history of fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, providing an incredible platform for participants to accelerate their ideas.

The focus on empowering women and minorities in the entrepreneurial landscape is a cornerstone of this initiative, promoting inclusive growth and diversity.

Applications for the RSSC Cohort 2 are now open. Interested founders and business owners can apply through the provided link, leading to the application page. The program runs for nine months, giving participants ample time to develop their startups with expert guidance and support.

Through initiatives like RSSC, the U.S. Embassy, in collaboration with NSTP (NUST), continues to strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Pakistan, providing entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed on the global stage.
Image by Rising Star