Islamabad, Pakistan – In a landmark move to bolster Pakistan’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, Karandaaz Pakistan, Accelerate Prosperity (an initiative of the Aga Khan Development Network), and Parwaaz Financial Services Ltd (PFSL) have announced a strategic partnership aimed at expanding access to finance for small businesses, with a special focus on women-led enterprises, climate-tech startups, and innovation-driven ventures.
This collaboration seeks to address a critical market gap, targeting businesses that are too large for microfinance but considered too risky by traditional banks. By combining Karandaaz’s deep financial expertise, Accelerate Prosperity’s early-stage capital provision, and PFSL’s innovative lending solutions, the initiative is set to champion inclusive economic growth, gender equality, climate resilience, and financial access across Pakistan.
The signing ceremony brought together key representatives from the Aga Khan Foundation Pakistan (AKF-P), Karandaaz, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), KfW Development Bank, and PFSL. Speaking at the event, stakeholders underscored the importance of innovative financing mechanisms and strategic collaborations to drive sustainable growth and strengthen Pakistan’s small business sector.
“This partnership is a testament to our shared commitment to unlocking new opportunities for underserved businesses and shaping a resilient, inclusive financial future for Pakistan,” said a representative from Karandaaz Pakistan.
With this new alliance, the three organizations aim to empower entrepreneurs, foster innovation, and contribute to the country’s broader goals of climate adaptation, women’s economic empowerment, and inclusive development.
