President International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI), Prof. Dr. Ahmed Saad Alahmed, inaugurated the university’s new Virtual Business Incubation Program at the Business Incubation Center, where he toured 60 stalls, met incubatees, and reviewed various product prototypes. The ceremony was attended by university leadership, faculty and startup teams, while Vice President (Research & Enterprise) Prof. Dr. Shuja Ahmed Syed was also present.
The Virtual Business Incubation Program offers mentorship, online training modules, digital resources and access to industry networks, providing virtual workshops, investor-pitch preparation, legal and financial toolkits and scheduled demo days. Officials said the initiative is designed to address challenges faced by student entrepreneurs and will allow startups to grow beyond geographic limitations while staying connected with IIUI’s academic and research support.
During the visit, the President examined educational technology ideas, health-related innovations and sustainable consumer products presented by incubated teams, who shared progress updates and market-entry plans. University representatives noted that the virtual program will complement on-site facilities and widen incubation capacity for students, faculty and alumni.
Addressing the ceremony, President IIUI Prof. Dr. Ahmed Saad Alahmed said that empowering students to transform ideas into viable businesses is central to the university’s mission. He said the virtual incubator will open new avenues for innovation, strengthen industry linkages and help create jobs contributing to national growth. He urged corporate partners and alumni to join the program as mentors and investors. Prof. Dr. Ahmed Shuja Syed was also present on the occasion. 
Director Business Incubation Center and STBS, Engr. Muhammad Ahsen Mirza, said the initiative marks a significant step toward expanding opportunities across Pakistan. He said IIUI has a strong track record of nurturing startups, and the virtual model will extend guidance, networks and market access to emerging entrepreneurs across the country.
The International Islamic University Islamabad, a leading public research institution, promotes interdisciplinary education, practical training and innovation, while the Business Incubation Center supports students and faculty in converting research and ideas into sustainable enterprises through mentorship, seed support and industry collaboration.