Plan9 never fails to delight startups. This time they bring The Launchpad 10, their biggest event up to date!
Plan9 have come a long way from their initiation in 2012. They provide a strong platform for the young generation who want to explore their ideas and passion, and start their own businesses. From linking startups to potential incubators to organizing competitive arenas, Plan9 works enthusiastically to boost the entrepreneur ecosystem of Pakistan. So far they have graduated more than 150 startups. These startups are evaluated at more than $70 million, have gone on to raise investments of over $2.5 million and have created more than 1000 jobs across Pakistan.
The Launchpad is held semi-annually and consists of various activities that includes; screening, workshops, talks and final presentation. Three major cities of Pakistan host the event– Lahore, Karachi and Islamabad; however, startups can apply from all over the country. From the 3000 applicants, Plan9 selects 100 startups from across Pakistan to be incubated. Apart from having an amazing team and excellent mentors, Plan9 also has a number of global players on board. Google, Facebook, Amazon and Microsoft are some important names out of our many partners. Launchpad 10 will be happening on 17th July to 23rd July in Lahore, 27thJuly in Karachi and 29th July to 30thJuly in Islamabad.
What is The Launchpad?
The Launchpad is a weeklong event which initiates the incubation cycle. Two days are dedicated to the competition. On Day One, the shortlisted startups deliver their elevator pitches to an external panel of judges and based on their scores on this day, the startups qualify for Day Two of The Launchpad. The second day is harder as startups need to pitch their complete business model in a seven minute pitch, which is followed by three minutes of Question and Answer session. Winners are announced on the second day and these startups get incubated at Plan9 for 6 months.
What are the business ideas that will qualify for incubation?
Since Plan9 is a technology incubator, the ideas for startup should be based on a product and should have a tech component. The startup could be in any of the following domains related to technology. They are as follows:
- Consumer Tech (e-commerce)
- EdTech (Education Tech)
- FinTech (Finance Tech)
- HealthTech
- AdTech
- IoT (Internet of Things)
- SaaS (Software as a Service)
- Mobile App
- Web App
- Hardware
What is the selection procedure for incubation?
The procedure to get inducted at Plan9 is very simple, it includes:
- Acceptance of online applications
- Shortlisting of selected teams
- Invitation to shortlisted teams to attend The Launchpad
- Rating by panel of judges
- Selection of the top scoring teams for incubation
What will be the advantage of getting incubation from Plan9?
Incubation at Plan9 is deemed paradise for the entrepreneurs. The reason for this is that the person will receive free work space and infrastructure; they will be mentored on every aspect of a startup along with training and workshops conducted by industry experts. Their legal matters won’t be a hindrance as they will be given legal advice from Plan9. Plan9 will also look after their networking opportunities for investment and connection with potential customers/clients. On top of all these massive benefits, Plan9 offers much more for its startups.
20th June marks the last date to submit applications for The Launchpad 10. This is an immense opportunity for all those who are looking for an opening to turn their ideas into a reality.