Business Desk 
Dec 31, 2024
In a country marked by resilience and ambition, Pakistan’s startup ecosystem stands as a beacon of hope, addressing some of the most pressing real-world problems with groundbreaking solutions. From financial technology to health innovation, the entrepreneurial landscape is flourishing, fuelled by a young, tech-savvy population and a growing appetite for digital transformation.
Despite challenges such as economic instability and limited access to resources, these startups have shown remarkable ingenuity, leveraging technology to redefine traditional sectors. Whether it’s revolutionising e-commerce, modernising banking, or simplifying everyday tasks, Pakistan’s startups are not just surviving—they’re thriving.
Gadinsider introduces you to the top 10 startups of 2024 that are not only driving innovation but also setting new benchmarks for growth and sustainability in the country.
DealCart
DealCart simplifies online grocery shopping, empowering users to buy high-quality products at unbeatable prices. Projected to transform Pakistan's grocery market by 2025, the app allows users to save up to 24% compared to regular stores—significant in a country where families spend a large share of their income on groceries. DealCart raised $4.5 million in pre-seed funding within four months of launch, followed by an additional $3 million in 2024.
Markaz
Founded in 2022, Markaz Technologies is a social commerce platform that enables entrepreneurs to launch businesses with no upfront investment. With over 150,000 products, it integrates seamlessly with platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram, connecting sellers to customers in more than 300 cities and villages. The startup has secured $2.4 million in seed funding.
Airlift Technologies
Airlift began as a mass transit service in 2019 but pivoted to quick commerce during the pandemic. It made history with $85 million in Series B funding, Pakistan's largest-ever startup raise. However, operations ceased in July 2022 due to global economic challenges.
Bazaar
Bazaar Technologies is revolutionising Pakistan’s retail tech landscape. By combining procurement, inventory management, customer engagement, and accounting, it simplifies business for small store owners. The company raised $70 million in Series B funding, led by Dragoneer Investment Group and Tiger Global Management.
PostEx
PostEx is transforming Pakistan's e-commerce sector by enhancing cash-on-delivery (COD) payments. Its acquisition of Call Courier expanded its reach to serve 1.3 million consumers across 500 cities, making it the country’s largest e-commerce service provider. Offering same-day delivery and instant payments, PostEx helps merchants grow without worrying about payment delays.
Retailo Technologies
Retailo Technologies optimises Pakistan's retail supply chain through its B2B marketplace, connecting retailers with suppliers. Its digital ecosystem, powered by data analytics and AI, supports smarter purchasing decisions and inventory management, driving growth across major Pakistani cities.
NayaPay
NayaPay, operating as an Electronic Money Institution (EMI), offers a digital wallet for payments, money transfers, remittances, and bill payments. Its partnership with Alipay+ connects users to over 1.5 billion accounts globally. NayaPay also offers tailored financial tools for small businesses, redefining how Pakistanis manage money.
CarFirst
CarFirst, a platform for used vehicle transactions, connected car sellers with dealers via online auctions. Despite early success, the company shut down operations in late 2022, reflecting the challenges faced by Pakistan’s startup ecosystem.
TAG
TAG is Pakistan's first digital banking platform, simplifying money management for individuals and businesses. From payroll solutions to salary advances, TAG is poised to capitalise on the nation’s young, tech-savvy population. By 2025, digital banking could boost Pakistan’s GDP by $36 billion.
Zameen.com
Zameen.com, Pakistan's largest online real estate portal, has transformed property transactions since its launch in 2006. With 3.5 million monthly visits, 200,000+ new listings, and over 10,000 registered agents, it remains the go-to platform for property seekers.
While Pakistan's startup scene faces challenges as 2025 approaches, its potential for innovation and growth remains undeniable.
