Ahmed Khan Malik

The Sindh Enterprise Development Fund (SEDF) has formulated a comprehensive strategy to promote entrepreneurship, support startups, and strengthen small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across the province, marking a major step in the Sindh government’s efforts to create jobs, encourage innovation, and build an inclusive, sustainable economy.

Established to drive economic diversification and private sector growth, SEDF is now focusing on creating an enabling environment for emerging businesses. The new strategy emphasizes financial inclusion, value addition, technology adoption, and skills development — the key pillars that can reshape Sindh’s economic landscape in the coming decade.

“Under the new framework, SEDF plans to expand its financial support programs to make funding more accessible for startups and SMEs. The Fund will offer mark-up subsidies and facilitate concessional financing in collaboration with commercial banks, helping reduce the cost of doing business and enabling entrepreneurs to invest in innovation, product development, and market expansion,” Syed Gohar, Executive Director of SEDF, told WealthPK.

To strengthen the startup ecosystem, he said, SEDF will prioritize technology-driven ventures, agri-processing units, and women-led enterprises. The Fund will also promote green and sustainable businesses in renewable energy, recycling, and environmentally responsible manufacturing — reflecting Sindh’s commitment to align its development model with global sustainability goals.

Beyond financial incentives, the SEDF strategy places strong emphasis on technical assistance and advisory services. “The Fund will guide entrepreneurs in preparing feasibility studies, developing business plans, and navigating regulatory frameworks. It will also help connect startups with financial institutions, investors, and relevant government departments to streamline their business operations,” he said.

He added that training programs and workshops would be launched to enhance managerial and technical capacities of entrepreneurs, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. By equipping small business owners with essential knowledge and skills, SEDF aims to ensure long-term sustainability and competitiveness of their ventures.

According to Gohar, the new strategy builds upon Sindh’s natural and economic strengths — including its fertile agricultural base, access to ports, industrial infrastructure, and growing young workforce. Priority sectors include agriculture and agri-processing, dairy and livestock, fisheries, horticulture, mining and minerals, and information technology.

Access to affordable finance remains one of the biggest challenges for startups and SMEs. To address this, SEDF is partnering with commercial banks to provide subsidized loans for business expansion and new investments. Entrepreneurs will be able to apply for assistance through a simplified, transparent process, ensuring timely approvals and disbursements.

The Fund will also introduce performance-based support mechanisms to ensure measurable outcomes in productivity, job creation, and revenue generation. Regular monitoring and evaluation systems will be established to maintain transparency and accountability.

A significant part of the new strategy focuses on empowering women and youth entrepreneurs. SEDF plans to expand micro-financing and business development programs to reach more women-led ventures across both rural and urban Sindh. Young innovators will also be supported through incubation programs, mentorship, and seed funding to help turn ideas into viable enterprises.

This inclusive approach aligns with the Sindh government’s broader vision of ensuring equal opportunities, fostering innovation, and reducing unemployment.

“With this new roadmap, SEDF envisions transforming Sindh into a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship. A vibrant startup ecosystem will not only create employment but also strengthen the province’s industrial and technological base,” Gohar said.

Credit: INP-WealthPk