Pakistan-US Tech Connect 2026 held in Chicago to promote IT exports

Pakistani technology companies presented their digital services and explored partnerships with American businesses at Pakistan-US Tech Connect 2026 in Chicago. The Pakistani embassy and consulate, the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) and the Organization of Pakistani Entrepreneurs (OPEN) Global jointly organised the event.

Speaking at the opening, Pakistan's Ambassador to the US, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, said the United States is the largest market for Pakistani IT exports, according to a statement from the embassy. He said the aim of the event is to introduce the technical skills of Pakistan's young people to the American market.

The ambassador said the Tech Connect series has been well received. Over the past three years, annual roadshows have introduced the wide-ranging abilities of Pakistani technology firms to a global audience. He called it an ongoing effort whose results would come gradually. TechJuice reported that he also pointed to Pakistan's young population and encouraged US companies to use skilled people at competitive operating costs.

The Chicago event was the last stop of a US tour that earlier went to Silicon Valley, Dallas and Washington, D.C., according to TechJuice. Illinois State Representative Justin Slaughter and State Senator Laura Murphy addressed the gathering, and Daniel Belfleur of the Illinois Economic Development Corporation briefed participants on the state's economic development.

PSEB chief executive Faisal Jeddy spoke about business opportunities in Pakistan's IT sector, its skilled workforce and growing capacity for innovation. Ignite CEO Bilal Abbasi spoke on the Pakistani startup ecosystem, while OPEN Global president Tariq Khan spoke on opportunities for cooperation between the two sides.

Companies that took part included Strategic Systems International, Ten Pearls, Abacus, Systems Limited, NextBridge, Edo AI, Excellence Delivered, Folio3 and TMC. They gave detailed presentations to US businesses. Panel discussions covered market entry, expanding enterprise partnerships and what US buyers and investors look for in Pakistani technology firms, including outsourcing prospects.

Networking sessions let Midwest companies and the Pakistani delegation discuss business needs and possible partnerships. Representatives from both countries said they intend to continue contacts and expand trade cooperation. Consul General Zaman Mehdi closing the event thanked participants and partners, and praised support from the government, the private sector and the Pakistani-American community.

TechJuice also reported that IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja confirmed Pakistan's technology exports reached a record $4.6 billion in the fiscal year ending June 2026, up 21% from the previous year.