Karachi: The Pakistan Software Houses Association for IT and IT-enabled Services (P@SHA) has officially launched the 22nd edition of the P@SHA ICT Awards 2026, inviting nominations from technology companies, startups, entrepreneurs, students, women-led businesses and public sector innovators from across the country.
The awards, regarded as Pakistan’s premier platform for recognising innovation, excellence and technological achievement, are scheduled to take place in Karachi in September 2026.
According to P@SHA, this year’s awards will include 10 core categories and 41 sub and cross categories, covering Artificial Intelligence, FinTech, Cybersecurity, HealthTech, Cloud Computing, Digital Government, Sustainability, Enterprise Solutions, Emerging Technologies and other domains.
Speaking on the launch, P@SHA Senior Vice Chairman and Brand Chair Muhammad Umair Nizam said the awards recognise and celebrate the talent, innovation and achievements advancing Pakistan’s technology sector.
“As Pakistan’s premier AI-enabled awards, they highlight the companies, startups, and individuals developing transformative solutions and contributing to digital innovation. We encourage innovators from across Pakistan to participate and showcase their excellence on this national platform,” he said.
He said the awards were free to apply, ensuring equal opportunity for startups, SMEs, established technology companies, exporters, students, women-led ventures and public sector digital initiatives.
The P@SHA ICT Awards also serve as Pakistan’s official gateway to the Asia Pacific ICT Alliance (APICTA) Awards, where winners and runners-up represent the country at a regional technology platform. Pakistani companies have earned international recognition at APICTA, reflecting the country’s growing strength in innovation and digital excellence.
The launch comes as Pakistan’s technology sector marks a significant milestone. In FY2026, Pakistan achieved a record $4.6 billion in IT exports, reflecting the sector’s global competitiveness and its increasing contribution to the national economy. Pakistani technology companies continue to serve clients across North America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia-Pacific and Africa through software development, AI solutions, fintech, cybersecurity, cloud services, gaming and digital products.
Dr Shoab Ahmad Khan, Chair of the P@SHA ICT Awards Committee, said innovation was taking place across every region of Pakistan.
“The P@SHA ICT Awards recognize the individuals and organizations whose ideas and solutions are driving digital transformation and strengthening Pakistan's position as an emerging global technology hub,” he said.
Applications will remain open until July 30, 2026. Entries will then be evaluated through a transparent and merit-based judging process by an independent panel of national and international experts from industry, academia, entrepreneurship and technology.
Finalists will be announced ahead of the P@SHA ICT Awards Night, where industry leaders, policymakers, investors, development partners and technology professionals will gather to celebrate Pakistan’s digital achievements.
Technology companies, innovators and entrepreneurs interested in participating can review the eligibility criteria, award categories and submission guidelines at www.pashaictawards.com.
