ISLAMABAD: The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has issued a call for applications to recognize Business Incubation Centres (BICs) aimed at supporting young entrepreneurs.
This initiative provides administrative, consulting, and networking services, along with affordable startup spaces for budding business minds.
Private sector higher education institutions are invited to submit applications for the recognition of their BICs, ensuring alignment with the minimum requirements outlined in the HEC BIC Policy 2021. The institutions should also have an operational HEC-recognized or funded BIC under the consortia model, showcasing a tangible research commercialization and entrepreneurial ecosystem.
It’s crucial to note that the recognition process does not involve any financial commitment from the commission. HEC emphasizes the development of innovative companies, startups, and spin-offs to drive economic growth through a robust incubation process. Recognized BICs play an active role in generating new job opportunities and fostering innovative communities.
Interested universities have two routes to establish their BICs: public sector Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) can submit proposals through a call for proposals, and private sector universities with independently established incubation facilities can apply for recognition to HEC.
The recognition of BICs is an ongoing process, and institutions can submit applications throughout the year. For detailed information, candidates are encouraged to visit the useful resources section or contact HEC at [email protected].