State of Youth Entrepreneurship Ecosystem in Pakistan

The report highlights the significant potential of Pakistan's youth population, which is the fifth largest in the world, while also addressing the challenges faced in harnessing this potential due to high illiteracy rates and limited access to education, employment, and connectivity. Using Youth Co:Lab's entrepreneurship ecosystem diagnostic framework, the study analyzes six key domains: Policy and Regulatory Frameworks, Human Capital and Entrepreneurship Culture, Access to Finance and Incentives, Business Development Support and Infrastructure, Access to Markets, and Innovation and Technology. The report offers strategic recommendations to foster a dynamic and inclusive ecosystem for young entrepreneurs, emphasizing the need for targeted initiatives to support marginalized communities, including rural youth and persons with disabilities. It serves as a roadmap for policymakers, development agencies, and stakeholders to design interventions that support youth entrepreneurship and contribute to Pakistan's economic development.