The Virtual Incubation Program aims to provide early-stage startups and entrepreneurs with access to the resources, mentorship, and networks of the Bahria Innovation Center (BIC) without the requirement of physical presence. This program seeks to expand the BIC’s reach and support a diverse group of innovators, including those located outside the immediate geographical area, leveraging technology to foster entrepreneurship and innovation.

a. Scope

This policy applies to all startups, entrepreneurs, and BU affiliated innovators (students, faculty, and alumni) who are enrolled in the Virtual Incubation Program.

b. Services Offered

The Virtual Incubation Program will provide the following services and support to enrolled startups:

• Mentorship: Virtual one-on-one mentoring sessions with industry experts, entrepreneurs, and faculty members with expertise relevant to the startup’s sector.
• Workshops and Training: Regular webinars and virtual workshops on critical business topics, including business planning, fundraising, product development, and marketing.
• Networking: Opportunities to connect with investors, industry leaders, and potential customers through virtual networking events and pitch days.
• Access to Resources: Startups will receive access to business development tools, market research databases, and online collaboration platforms provided by the BIC.
• Funding Opportunities: Virtual startups will have the opportunity to pitch for seed funding, grants, or investments facilitated by the BIC or through partner organizations.

e. Eligibility Criteria

Startups or entrepreneurs applying to the Virtual Incubation Program shall meet the following criteria:

• Stage of Development: Applicants must have a validated business idea, prototype, or early-stage startup. The program is primarily for startups in the ideation, validation, or scaling stages.
• Affiliation: Preference will be given to BU affiliated applicants (students, faculty, and alumni); however, external applicants with high-potential ventures are also eligible.
• Commitment: Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to participate in the program’s virtual activities, including mentorship sessions, training workshops, and pitch events.
• Market Potential: The startup should have a scalable business model and show potential for market success.
• Sector Focus: Priority will be given to startups aligned with the BU’s focus areas (e.g., technology, health, education, energy, etc.), but other high-impact sectors will also be considered.

f. Procedure for Evaluating Applications

• The Manager BIC, in close coordination with the Director ORIC, will arrange a pitching session before Incubate Selection Committee to assess the commercialization potential of the proposed startup.
• Upon positive recommendation by the Incubate Selection Committee, the application will be processed by the Manager, BIC, and submitted to the Director ORIC, for further approval by the Pro-Rector (RIC).
• Upon approval of Pro-Rector (RIC), onboarding will be done by Manager BIC.

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