The International Finance Corporation (IFC) has committed up to $3 million to i2i Ventures. This marks a key boost for Pakistan’s startup ecosystem. The women-led fund targets early-stage innovators.
Pakistan faces funding challenges. Yet i2i Ventures steps up. It supports bold founders tackling big problems.
i2i Ventures: Pioneering Women-Led VC in Pakistan
Kalsoom Lakhani and Misbah Naqvi founded i2i Ventures in 2019. They launched it as Pakistan’s first women-led VC fund. Sister to Invest2Innovate, it spun out for dedicated investing.
The firm focuses on pre-seed and seed stages. Ticket sizes range from $250K to $500K. It leads deals and co-invests. Sector-agnostic, it prioritizes strong teams and large markets.
Hands-on support sets it apart. Portfolio founders praise the team’s operator network and insights
Breaking Down the IFC Investment
IFC approved $2 million from its own funds. We-Fi added $1 million. This fuels i2i Venture Capital Fund I LP. Target size: $15 million.
Approval came June 17, 2024. The fund closed shortly after. It fits IFC’s Startup Catalyst program. Launched in 2016, it backs accelerators in emerging markets.
Zeeshan Sheik, IFC Country Manager for Pakistan and Afghanistan, said: “Pakistan holds huge potential for startups scaling tech solutions in climate, education, finance, and healthcare.”
Growing Portfolio and Key Investments
i2i now backs 12-13 companies. Standouts include Abhi (earned wage access), CreditBook (digital ledgers), Oraan (women-first fintech), and Tazah (agri supply chain).
Recent move: Pakhtun Wardrobe in October 2025. DealCart, an e-commerce player, also thrives post-early funding.
These bets show real progress. From planning three investments, the fund now deploys actively.
Impact on Pakistan’s Startup Scene
Pakistan startups raised $74.2 million in 2025. That’s amid an 87% drop earlier. Experts predict rebound in 2026.
i2i aids women founders. Early entrepreneurs face resource gaps. The fund closes them with capital and guidance.
IFC’s move strengthens diversity. It builds jobs and innovation.
Leadership Insights
Misbah Naqvi noted founders’ resilience: “We saw firsthand how tough building in Pakistan is.”
Kalsoom Lakhani echoes ecosystem-building since 2011. Recent panels highlight their influence.
i2i Ventures proves women-led funds deliver. IFC’s bet pays off as Pakistan’s tech scene matures.