U.S.-supported masterclass trains 50 Pakistani entrepreneurs for global digital trade expansion

ISLAMABAD: A five-day business accelerator programme supported by the U.S. Mission in Pakistan has concluded in Islamabad, equipping 50 Pakistani entrepreneurs with digital trade skills aimed at strengthening their access to international e-commerce markets.

The initiative, titled “E-Commerce and Digital Trade: Building the U.S.-Pakistan Economic Partnership,” was jointly organised by the U.S. Mission Pakistan, the Pakistan-U.S. Alumni Network (PUAN), and Tech Valley Pakistan. It was held from June 8 to 12 at the newly established headquarters of the U.S. Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP).

Participants were selected through a competitive nationwide process and represented a wide range of sectors, including handicrafts, agriculture, fashion, software development, and healthcare-related products.

At the closing ceremony, Chargé d’Affaires Andrew Halus reiterated Washington’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurship and innovation in Pakistan, describing the country as an important trading partner. He said participants were now better positioned to tap into global markets, particularly noting the role of digital skills in expanding export opportunities.

Organisers said the programme combined practical training with certification, including the Google Digital Marketing & E-Commerce Professional Certificate. Participants were trained in setting up online stores, navigating digital trade regulations, managing logistics and supply chains, and using AI-powered marketing tools.

By the end of the course, each entrepreneur had developed an online storefront and an export roadmap designed to help take their products to international buyers.

The cohort reflected the diversity of Pakistan’s small business sector, showcasing products ranging from handcrafted goods and agricultural items such as dried mangoes and organic oils to apparel, shawls, and jewellery.

Tech Valley Pakistan, a partner of Google for Education and Canva for Education, provided technical support and training for the programme. The organisation operates across multiple countries, including Pakistan, Canada, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and the United States, and says it has reached more than 500,000 learners globally.