Rawalpindi:In a remarkable achievement under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif for women empowerment and youth entrepreneurship, Ms. Maria Qayyum, founder of Green Plastic Pvt. Ltd. and a startup incubated at the Fatima Jinnah Women University Business Incubation Center (FJWU-BIC), has secured PKR 1 million in seed funding at the CM Entrepreneurial Female Youth Pitch Competition organized by the Women Development Department (WDD), Government of Punjab.
The provincial finale was held on May 8–9, 2026, at the Maryam Nawaz Women Complex, Jubilee Town, Lahore, where talented young female entrepreneurs from across Punjab presented innovative business ideas before a distinguished panel of investors, industry experts, and government representatives.
Maria Qayyum’s startup, Green Plastic Pvt. Ltd., received appreciation for its innovative and sustainable approach towards eco-friendly plastic alternatives and green packaging solutions.
The venture stood out among numerous participants for its strong environmental vision and business potential. The awarded seed funding will support prototype development, raw material procurement, and the initial market launch of environmentally responsible packaging products.
The initiative reflects the commitment of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif towards creating economic opportunities for women, encouraging innovation, and strengthening women-led enterprises across the province. More than 200 applicants participated in the competition, while 15 finalists were selected to present their projects at the provincial finale.
Vice Chancellor, Fatima Jinnah Women University, congratulated Maria Qayyum on this outstanding accomplishment and appreciated the Government of Punjab, particularly Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, for providing a transformative platform for young women entrepreneurs. She stated that such initiatives are enabling talented women to convert innovative ideas into impactful businesses and contribute towards Pakistan’s sustainable economic growth.
Fatima Jinnah Women University reaffirmed its commitment to supporting women-led startups and entrepreneurial initiatives through FJWU-BIC, fostering innovation and leadership among young women.
