Startup Facilitation Division

Empowering innovation
through enabling
regulation

SECP provides a streamlined, startup-friendly regulatory environment - built to help Pakistani entrepreneurs raise capital, scale faster, and compete globally.

One window facilitation

Single interface for all SECP startup interactions

Simplified compliance

Reduced filing burden for early-stage companies

Growth-oriented policy

Regulations designed to enable, not obstruct

Our Mandate

SECP's role in Pakistan's startup ecosystem

The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan has proactively reformed its regulatory architecture to unlock opportunities for entrepreneurs. From simplified incorporation to equity-based fundraising, SECP is a committed partner in building a vibrant, innovation-led economy.

Dedicated Startup Facilitation Division within SECP
Policy reforms aligned with global startup-friendly best practices
Coordination with MOITT, SBP, and ecosystem stakeholders
Dedicated portal: startups.secp.gov.pk

Regulatory Framework

Built for builders, not just bureaucrats

SECP's startup regulations are structured to reduce friction at every stage - from ideation to exit, while maintaining transparency and investor protection.

Single Member Company (SMC)

A simplified company structure designed for solo founders - requiring minimal formalities and providing full legal personhood with limited liability.

Companies Act 2017

Private Limited Startup

Flexible share structures, convertible instruments, and ESOP provisions tailored for VC-backed growth companies looking to raise multiple rounds.

Equity Framework

Startup Definition & Relief

Formally defined startup criteria provide access to a simplified reporting requirements, fee waivers, and a reduced compliance burden during the first 5 years.

Regulatory relief

Convertible Instruments

SAFEs and convertible notes are now legally recognized - giving early-stage founders tools to raise capital without premature valuation pressure.

2021 Reform

ESOP Framework

Employee Stock Option Plans under a structured SECP framework allow startups to attract and retain top talent with equity-based compensation.

Talent retention

Foreign Investment Rules

Streamlined processes for onboarding foreign investors and repatriation of returns - making Pakistani startups attractive to global capital.

Cross-border

Key Initiative

Startup facilitation programs

Targeted programs and platforms built to accelerate startup growth at every stage of the journey.

Regulatory Sandbox

SECP's sandbox allows fintech and innovative startups to test products in a live environment with relaxed regulatory requirements - under structured SECP supervision.

Apply to sandbox ->

Startup Portal

A single digital gateway - startups.secp.gov.pk - for incorporation, filing, sandbox applications, and regulatory guidance. Fully online, 24/7.

Visit portal ->

Policy Roadmap 2025-27

SECP's published innovation roadmap outlines upcoming regulatory reforms: digital assets, crowdfunding expansion, and SME capital markets access.

Read roadmap ->

Startup Facilitation Desk

A dedicated team of SECP officers provides direct advisor support to startups navigating regulatory requirements, compliance, and fundraising processes.

Get support ->

Equity Crowdfunding Rules

SECP-licensed crowdfunding platforms allow startups to raise capital from the public - democratizing access to funding beyond traditional VC and angel networks.

Learn more ->

International Coordination

SECP engages with IOSCO, global regulators, and diaspora investor networks to ensure Pakistani startups can access international capital markets smoothly.

Global network ->

Funding & Investment

Access to capital, simplified

SECP has reformed Pakistan's capital formation rules to enable modern startup financing mechanisms.

Angel Investor Network

SECP facilitates angel investments through a recognized framework - providing legal clarity for both founders and early investors on deal structures and rights.

Venture Capital Fund Registration

Pakistan-based VC funds can register with SECP under a dedicated framework - enabling domestic fund formation and deployment with regulatory certainty.

Convertible Note & SAFE

Recognized legal instruments for pre-seed and seed rounds - allowing deferred valuation while giving investors downside protection through conversion rights.

Equity Crowdfunding

Raise from retail investors via SECP-licensed platforms with transparent disclosure requirements designed to protect smaller contributors.

Knowledge Hub

Resources for founders

Practical guides, regulatory documents, and policy updates - curated for startup founders and their legal advisors.

Guide

Startup Incorporation Handbook

Step-by-step guide to registering your startup under Pakistani law including SMC, Private Limited, and LLP structures.

Policy

Startup Policy Framework 2021

The foundational regulatory document defining startup eligibility, investor protections, and the SECP Sandbox operating procedures.

Report

Annual Startup Investment Report

Comprehensive data on Pakistan's startup ecosystem - funding rounds, sector trends, and SECP facilitation outcomes for the year.

FAQ

Founder FAQs on SECP Regulations

Answers to the most common regulatory questions from startup founders - covering compliance, filings, equity, and investor rights.

Webinar

SECP Startup Webinar Series

Recorded webinars on regulatory topics - equity crowdfunding, ESOP structuring, VC fund formation, and sandbox participation.

Helpdesk

Startup Regulatory Helpline

Direct access to the SECP Startup Facilitation Desk - for queries on incorporation, compliance, sandbox eligibility, and policy clarifications.

Your startup journey starts with one step

Join thousands of Pakistani entrepreneurs who have registered, raised capital, and scaled under SECP's startup-friendly regulatory framework.