HBL-P@SHA ICT Awards 2025: Celebrating Diversity, Growth, and Competitiveness in Pakistan’s IT Industry

Pakistan’s IT Industry Association (P@SHA) hosted its premier industry event, the HBL-P@SHA ICT Awards 2025, to celebrate country’s brightest minds in the field of technology. The Awards, supported by the HBL, Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), Contour Software, Systems Limited, and Tech-Destination Pakistan, highlighted Pakistan’s most innovative startups, digital solutions, and IT companies that are shaping the future of the country’s digital economy and earning recognition on the global stage.

Addressing the gathering the Chief Guest, Mr. Ahsan Iqbal, Federal Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives, praised the role of Pakistan’s young innovators in driving progress; He said: “The digital economy is no longer a choice, it is the future. What we are witnessing here tonight is proof that Pakistan has the talent, creativity, and determination to lead in this space. Our young entrepreneurs and developers are building solutions not just for Pakistan, but for the world. The government is committed to supporting this ecosystem, so that our innovators can thrive, compete internationally, and contribute to a stronger, knowledge-based economy.”

Sharing his joy on the occasion, Chairman P@SHA Sajjad Mustafa Syed said: “With initiatives such as the HBL-P@SHA ICT Awards, P@SHA not only recognizes and celebrates excellence but also encourages entrepreneurship, promotes inclusivity, and supports the creation of globally competitive companies”.

The Awards continue to play a vital role in recognizing excellence in software, mobile apps, digital services, research and development, e-governance, and other emerging areas. “The 2025 HBL-P@SHA ICT Awards achieved a record milestone with more than 1,600 applications received from across Pakistan, the highest in the history of the Awards. Out of these, 104 companies were honored, with 37 winners, 58 runner-ups, and 9 receiving special appreciation awards.” He further added.

Winners gain valuable exposure and the opportunity to represent Pakistan at the Asia Pacific ICT Alliance (APICTA) Awards, a platform where regional leaders in technology come together.

Commenting on the occasion, Muhammad Nassir Salim, President & CEO - HBL said, “The HBL P@SHA ICT awards stand as a testament to the innovation, hard work, and creativity of the tech industry. HBL’s strategic partnership with P@SHA continues to bolster the Bank’s engagement and outreach within the tech ecosystem, amplifying its impact on the digital economy. The technology sector has immense potential to fulfill the Government of Pakistan’s vision of a Digital Pakistan and place our country as a major technology destination in the world.”

By celebrating achievement, encouraging competition, and strengthening connections across industry, academia, and government, the P@SHA ICT Awards reaffirm Pakistan’s place as a rising force in the global technology landscape.

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