Islamabad (Zahid Yaqoob Khawaja): In a strategic move to reshape Pakistan’s agricultural ecosystem, Karandaaz Pakistan, an impact investment platform dedicated to driving sustainable economic growth and strengthening financial and social protection systems for inclusion, has partnered with GrowTech, an AgriTech innovator, to expand digital and financial access for smallholder farmers. This collaboration will accelerate the adoption of smart agriculture practices and digital financial tools across underserved regions of Punjab.

GrowTech, recognized for its tech-driven approach to farming, will leverage its digital platform to extend agriculture practice advisory, and access to agri-markets and input suppliers in new geographic areas. The initiative will support farmers in boosting productivity and profitability in an increasingly competitive market.

“This partnership with GrowTech reflects our commitment to harnessing technology and finance to uplift Pakistan’s agriculture sector. By reaching farmers where they are – digitally and physically – we’re enabling a more inclusive, productive, and climate-resilient agri-economy,” said Waqas ul Hasan, CEO, Karandaaz Pakistan.

To further strengthen the link between digital solutions and on-ground support, the project will establish Farmer Facilitation Centres in two new regions of Punjab. These centres will serve as community hubs, offering in-person assistance, digital training, and capacity-building programs. Local leaders will also be engaged through digital marketing and e-commerce workshops, ensuring widespread adoption and empowerment.

Recognizing logistics as a key enabler in agricultural success, the partnership will foster new alliances with local logistics providers to streamline supply chains. Farmers will benefit from more reliable and timely distribution networks, enhancing their market reach and operational efficiency.

A key element of the partnership is piloting the provision of financing to farmers leveraging electronic warehouse receipts allowing them to store their agriculture produce and use it to alleviate their capital constraints. Furthermore, in order to benefit female farmers, livestock and health advisory is also being integrated onto the digital platform.

“Through its partnership with Karandaaz, Growtech is digitally transforming agriculture by empowering farmers, especially smallholders and women, expanding rural market access, and building Pakistan’s leading platform for inclusive, sustainable, and technology-driven farming growth,” said Faisal Bilal, CEO, Growtech.

“Karandaaz is committed to driving financial inclusion, and agriculture remains one of the most financially underserved sectors in Pakistan while being the cornerstone of Pakistan’s economy. As part of this mission, Karandaaz is actively partnering with agritech firms, financial institutions (FIs), and fintech companies to ensure inclusion at the last mile. With our support and GrowTech’s proven expertise, we aim to deliver a comprehensive and commercially sustainable suite of financial services and agriculture advisory solutions to cater to the specific needs of the smallholder farmers across Pakistan.” said Sharjeel Murtaza, Chief Digital Officer (CDO), Karandaaz Pakistan.

The project is expected to impact tens of thousands of farmers, creating a replicable model for future AgriTech and financial inclusion partnerships in Pakistan.