Google Cloud has launched its inaugural Startup Competition Pakistan 2024, aiming to highlight and uplift the most innovative technology startups in the country. The competition seeks to discover and support entrepreneurial talent within Pakistan’s growing startup ecosystem. Farhan Qureshi, Google’s Country Director for Pakistan, expressed excitement for the initiative, stating that it provides a platform for dynamic talent to showcase their capabilities and fosters the next generation of entrepreneurs leveraging Cloud technologies. The competition encompasses five categories: AI & Generative AI, E-commerce & Connectivity, Fintech, Frontier Digital Technologies, and Sustainability & Environment. Participating startups will compete for the opportunity to present their concepts to a panel of experts, competing for a Rs1 million cash prize in each category. Umar Farooq, CEO of Tech Valley, highlighted the competition’s role in advancing Pakistan’s startup landscape, emphasizing the collaboration between Google Cloud and Tech Valley’s commitment to accelerating growth and creating new entrepreneurial prospects. The competition has received support from prominent figures in the startup community, including OPEN, Aspire, Bookme, and Tridorian, as well as Google Developer Groups and venture capital firms like Indus Valley Capital, Fatima Gobi Ventures, and Katalyst Labs. The Grand Finals are scheduled to take place in late July 2024 in Karachi.