Pakistan–U.S. Tech Connect 2026 brought together American Midwest businesses, Pakistani technology companies, policymakers and industry leaders to explore investment, commercial partnerships and collaboration in the digital economy.
The conference was co-hosted by the Embassy of Pakistan in Washington, D.C., the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) and OPEN Global.
Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, inaugurated the event, highlighting opportunities to strengthen bilateral technology ties. He encouraged US companies to benefit from Pakistan’s skilled workforce, competitive costs and expanding technological capabilities through mutually beneficial partnerships.
Illinois State Representative Justin Slaughter, State Senator Laura Murphy and Daniel Bellefleur, Vice President for Foreign Direct Investment at the Illinois Economic Development Corporation, also addressed the gathering.
PSEB CEO Faisal Jeddy highlighted Pakistan’s IT sector, skilled professionals and capacity to provide advanced technology solutions. Ignite CEO Bilal Abbasi discussed the country’s startup ecosystem, while OPEN Global President Tariq Khan outlined prospects for collaboration.
Pakistani technology firms, including Strategic Systems International, 10Pearls, Abacus, Systems Limited, Nextbridge, Addo AI, Excellence Delivered, Folio3 and TMC, presented their services and capabilities to prospective US partners.
Panel discussions focused on building enterprise partnerships, understanding purchasing trends among American mid-sized businesses and developing effective strategies for entering the US market. Participants also examined ways to move beyond traditional outsourcing and meet the expectations of US enterprise clients and investors.
Networking sessions provided opportunities for businesses from the Midwest and Pakistani delegates to identify potential partners, discuss commercial requirements and explore future engagements.
In his closing remarks, Consul General Zaman Mehdi thanked the participants and organisers, emphasising the role of government institutions, private businesses and the Pakistani-American community in promoting bilateral cooperation. OPEN Chicago Chairman Aamir Chalisa also delivered concluding remarks.