Muhammad Sarmad Hafeez (Innovation & Entrepreneurship Specialist | Startup Ecosystem Builder) is a leading figure in Pakistan’s startup and innovation ecosystem, known for connecting entrepreneurship, policy, and sustainable development. With over ten years of experience, he has designed and led several major innovation programs across the country.
Sarmad holds a specialization in Entrepreneurship from The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, combining strong academic knowledge with hands-on ecosystem experience.
At the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) – Incubation Wing, Sarmad managed 22 incubators and accelerators nationwide, supporting over 700 startups from Gilgit to Lasbela. His work helped founders access mentorship, funding, and growth opportunities, giving him deep insight into Pakistan’s regional startup landscape. He later served as Head of Program at National Incubation Center Peshawar under LMKT, where he continues to mentor innovative-driven entrepreneurs.
Internationally, he has worked with The Gradient (formerly 36 Degrees North) in the USA during his Innovation and Leadership Program at the University of Oklahoma, gaining exposure to global startup practices.
Sarmad has also developed the DARAIN framework—an innovation decision-making model for startups—and has trained with organizations like the U.S. State Department and Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN).
Beyond his professional work, he is a traveler, activist, and strong advocate for an innovation-driven economy, aiming to make Pakistan a leading hub of entrepreneurship in South Asia.