FLARE
FATA Launchpad for Applied Research & Entrepreneurship
FLARE is an incubation platform at FATA University, powered by the Directorate of Science & Technology, KP (DoST–KP). We transform innovative ideas into sustainable enterprises, bridging the gap between research, entrepreneurship, and local economic development.
“Powered by the Directorate General of Science & Technology (DoST–KP), FLARE is transforming the innovative potential of the Merged Areas into businesses and solutions that directly advance the province’s 8+3 Science Agenda.”
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Overview
FLARE (FATA Launchpad for Applied Research & Entrepreneurship) is a flagship program of DoST–KP, hosted at FATA University. It is designed to mobilize youth, innovators, and entrepreneurs from the Newly Merged Districts, directly linking their solutions to the provincial Science Agenda. Every incubated idea under FLARE is aligned with DoST’s priority sectors and contributes toward KP’s economic and technological reinvigoration.
Vision
To empower youth from the Merged Areas by transforming innovative ideas into sustainable businesses that drive socio-economic growth and contribute to provincial and national priorities.
Mission
- Implement DoST’s 8+3 Science Agenda on the ground through startups.
- Ensure equitable participation (≥25% women, representation from all merged districts).
- Accelerate technology transfer, prototyping, and commercialization.
Focus Areas (10+3)
Eight Natural Resource Priorities- Mines & Minerals
- IT & E-commerce
- Gemstones
- Bees & Honey
- Fruits & Vegetables
- Fisheries
- Herbs & Medicinal Plants
- Micro-Hydro Power
- Archeology
- Urban Environment
- Advanced Materials
- Biomedicine
- Space Sciences
Partners
- Host Institution: FATA University
- Funding Partner: Directorate of Science & Technology, Government of KP (DoST–KP)
- Support Network: Line departments, universities, chambers of commerce, and industry partners across KP
Programs
Incubation Program
A structured cycle that includes:
- Orientation & onboarding
- Training sessions (business, marketing, finance)
- Mentorship with industry experts and line departments
- Prototyping & proof-of-concept support
- Demo Day & investor connect
Funding & Grants
FLARE incubatees gain access to:
- DoST–KP Local Challenges Grants
- Made in KP Program for value-addition to natural resources
- Seed funding and partner-supported innovation grants
Digital-First Tools
- 8-minute online application form
- WhatsApp Helpdesk (9am–7pm)
- Structured interview packs (text, voice, or video)
- Standardized scoring rubric with fairness and audit trail
Apply
Eligibility
- Residents of Newly Merged Districts (NMDs)
- Startups or founders working in any of the 10+3 focus areas
- At least 25% of incubatees will be women-led
Application Process (Funnel)
- Awareness: District outreach campaigns in Urdu, Pashto, and English
- Application: Submit online form with basic details
- Interview: Present idea through structured Q&A, demo, or video
- Scoring: Standardized 100-point grid with inclusion rules
- Offers: 25 confirmed incubatees per cohort + 6 waitlisted
For support or questions, contact the FLARE team via the contact tab or email flare@fu.edu.pk.
Events
Upcoming Events
FLARE organizes hackathons, pitch competitions, demo days, and training workshops to build entrepreneurial culture in NMDs.
Past Events & Gallery
Snapshots of previous events showcasing startups, mentors, and community engagement.
Community Engagement
Workshops, awareness sessions, and youth mobilization drives across NMDs.
Resources
- FLARE Handbook 2025 (v0.1) — Complete guide for incubatees (cohort process, sprints, code of conduct).
- DoST–KP Science Agenda (8+3) — Provincial roadmap for science and technology priorities.
- Reports & Publications — Case studies, policy briefs, and startup stories.
News & Updates
Stay connected for calls for applications, grant announcements, press releases and social media highlights.
Contact
📍 FLARE Office, FATA University, Darra Adam Khel, KP
🌐 www.fu.edu.pk | www.dost.kp.gov.pk | fu.edu.pk/flare
📞 +92 (xxx) xxxxxxx