Islamabad: The U. S. Embassy in Islamabad, in collaboration with the Association of Private Sector Universities of Pakistan (APSUP), hosted the SEE Global Economic - Entrepreneurship and Investment Readiness Forum, bringing together around 150 entrepreneurs, startup founders, ORIC incubation centre directors and innovation ecosystem leaders.

The forum was held at the U. S. Educational Foundation in Pakistan Auditorium, Islamabad, with a focus on entrepreneurship, investment readiness, innovation and access to international markets.

Director of Public Engagement at the U. S. Embassy Islamabad Heidi Smith delivered the welcome remarks, followed by an Entrepreneurship and Trade Spotlight featuring presentations on U. S. -Pakistan commercial engagement and resources available to Pakistani companies seeking access to the U. S. market.

Chairman Punjab Higher Education Commission Professor Iqrar formally opened the forum and highlighted the importance of strengthening entrepreneurship and innovation within Pakistan's higher education sector.

Rector Superior University Prof. Dr. Sumaira Rehman spoke on university-industry collaboration and emphasized the role of entrepreneurship in empowering young people and translating innovative ideas into sustainable economic opportunities. Pro Rector NUST Air Vice Marshal Dr. Rizwan Riaz shared insights on research commercialization.

The forum also featured a virtual keynote by American entrepreneur and angel investor Scott Fox, who provided guidance on entering the U. S. market, developing investor-ready ventures, strengthening governance and transparency, and accessing international capital and investor networks.

Heidi Smith said Pakistan's entrepreneurs and researchers possess significant talent but require the right connections and understanding of international markets. She said stronger links between Pakistani entrepreneurs, American investors and U. S. innovation ecosystems could enhance Pakistan's global competitiveness and foster partnerships in the country's innovation economy.

The event concluded with a networking reception hosted by the U. S. Embassy, bringing together entrepreneurs, academics, investors and ecosystem partners to explore opportunities for future collaboration.