In Pakistan, startup companies are categorized into several types based on their size, industry, and growth stage. Here are the types of startup companies as per law:
Size-Based Categories
1. Micro Startup: Less than 10 employees, annual turnover less than PKR 10 million.
2. Small Startup: 10-50 employees, annual turnover less than PKR 50 million.
3. Medium Startup: 50-100 employees, annual turnover less than PKR 100 million.
4. Large Startup: More than 100 employees, annual turnover more than PKR 100 million.
Industry-Based Categories
1. Technology Startup: Focuses on IT, software development, e-commerce, or fintech.
2. Manufacturing Startup: Engaged in production of goods.
3. Service Startup: Provides services such as consulting, logistics, or hospitality.
4. Agricultural Startup: Focuses on agricultural products or services.
5. Creative Startup: Engaged in creative industries such as art, design, or media.
Growth Stage-Based Categories
1. Seed Stage: Idea-stage or prototype-stage startups.
2. Startup Stage: Early-stage startups with minimal revenue.
3. Growth Stage: Startups with increasing revenue and expansion plans.
4. Scale-Up Stage: Established startups with significant revenue growth.
Other Categories
1. Social Enterprise Startup: Focuses on social impact and sustainability.
2. Environmental Startup: Focuses on environmental sustainability and conservation.
3. Innovation Startup: Develops innovative products or services.
Benefits and Incentives
1. Tax exemptions up to 5 years.
2. Reduced tax rates (10% or 12.5%).
3. Easy registration and licensing.
4. Access to funding (specialized loans and grants).
5. Support from government agencies (mentorship, training, and advisory services).
Registration Process
1. Register with SECP (for companies).
2. Obtain NTN (National Tax Number) and STRN (Sales Tax Registration Number).
3. Obtain necessary licenses and permits.
4. Comply with tax laws and regulations.
Resources
1. Pakistan Business Registration Act 2017:
2. SECP:
3. Pakistan Startup Policy 2019:
4. Federal Board of Revenue (FBR):
