Jazz, Pakistan’s leading digital operator, has partnered with the GSMA Innovation Fund through its startup accelerator program, xlr8, to identify and support high-potential startups. This initiative focuses on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), health, education, entertainment, and digital lifestyle. The collaboration aims to foster innovation and drive large-scale socio-economic and environmental impact, according to a news release.
Under this partnership, Jazz’s xlr8 program will support startups recommended by the GSMA Innovation Fund by leveraging Jazz’s expertise in digital platforms. This includes platforms that have launched popular homegrown apps like SIMOSA and Tamasha, access to Jazz’s 71 million users through intelligent segmentation, and specialized mentoring from Jazz domain experts. Additional support includes digital growth and data analytics, platform architecture expertise, technology development, B2B support, and access to 9 million farmers and 18 million SIMOSA app users.
GSMA will recommend high-growth potential startups to Jazz xlr8 and continue to support these startups in collaboration with Jazz for scalability and sustainability.
Expressing his optimism about the collaboration, Aamer Ejaz, President Digital Platforms at Jazz, said, “We are thrilled to announce our partnership with GSMA, which aligns perfectly with our mutual goal of fostering innovation and supporting high-potential startups in Pakistan. This collaboration is also in sync with our new ServiceCo shift, where we are focused on strengthening the newly introduced strategic business units with robust services and solutions. Together, we hope to discover and cultivate groundbreaking ideas that can become digital success stories, contributing to Jazz’s and Pakistan’s digital vision.”
Max Cuvellier Giacomelli, Head of GSMA Mobile for Development, added, “We are excited to partner with Jazz xlr8. This collaboration aligns with our mission to accelerate digital tech solutions that address key global and local challenges by driving digital and financial inclusion, fostering economic growth, and enhancing resilience to climate shocks. Together with Jazz, we aim to contribute to Pakistan’s digital vision.”
Jazz xlr8 is Pakistan’s leading accelerator for scaling startups, supporting the country’s best entrepreneurs to grow within a strong ecosystem. Leveraging global partnerships, a customized curriculum, a mentor network, and Jazz’s services, it empowers promising startups. Jazz xlr8 has supported over 31 startups, including more than 10 led by women, created over 4,700 jobs, and facilitated 11 startups’ participation in the 4YFN@MWC event.
