Jazz, Pakistan’s leading digital operator, through its startup accelerator program ‘xlr8’, has partnered with the GSMA Innovation Fund to identify and support high-potential startups, especially in emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), health, education, entertainment, and digital lifestyle. This strategic collaboration aims to foster innovation and stimulate large-scale socio-economic and environmental impact.

Under the partnership, Jazz’s xlr8 program will support the GSMA Innovation Fund startups by providing Jazz expertise in digital platforms which are based on building and launching Pakistan’s largest homegrown apps like SIMOSA and Tamasha, access to Jazz’s 71 million users based on intelligent segmentation, specialized mentoring from Jazz domain experts, extensive digital growth & data analytics and platform architecture expertise.

Additionally, Jazz will offer technology development, B2B support, and access to 9 million farmers and 18 million SIMOSA app users. The GSMA, as an outreach partner, will recommend high-growth potential startups to Jazz xlr8 and continue supporting these startups in collaboration with Jazz for scalability and sustainability.

While expressing his optimism about this 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.”

Also sharing his thoughts, Max Cuvellier Giacomelli, Head of GSMA Mobile for Development, stated, “We are excited to partner with Jazz xlr8. This collaboration aligns with our mission to accelerate digital tech solutions that are addressing 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 play our part in contributing 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 10+ led by women, created over 4,700 jobs, and facilitated 11 startups’ participation in the 4YFN@MWC event.