The Role of Mentorship in Entrepreneurial Success
For first-time founders in Pakistan navigating a developing ecosystem with limited resources, mentorship isn't just helpful—it's essential.
70% Success Rate
Small businesses that receive mentorship survive more than 5 years, double the survival rate of those that don't
Source: SCORE
Who is a Mentor?
A mentor is an experienced individual who provides guidance, advice, feedback, and encouragement to a less experienced entrepreneur. They've typically "been there, done that," and can help you avoid costly mistakes and fast-track your growth.
Why Mentorship Matters for Startups
Strategic Decision-Making
Mentors help you make smarter decisions—be it about partnerships, pricing, hiring, or product development. Their experience gives you foresight and helps you avoid beginner traps.
Building Confidence
New founders often second-guess themselves. Mentors validate ideas, challenge assumptions, and boost confidence when self-doubt creeps in.
Expanding Networks
Many mentors bring access to a broader ecosystem—from investors and industry experts to potential customers and partners. One introduction can change your trajectory.
Emotional Support
Entrepreneurship is stressful. Having someone who understands the journey—who can relate to your highs and lows—makes you more resilient and less likely to quit.
Accountability
Regular check-ins with a mentor keep you focused. They'll ask the hard questions and push you toward progress—not just busy work.
Types of Mentorship
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| One-on-One Mentorship | Personalized guidance from a seasoned entrepreneur or industry expert. |
| Group Mentorship | Mastermind groups, bootcamps, and incubation programs. Great for peer learning. |
| Online Platforms | Sites like SCORE, GrowthMentor, and LinkedIn help connect you with mentors globally. |
| Informal Mentorship | Often found in family businesses or friendships—less structured but still valuable. |
Where to Find Mentors in Pakistan
Startup Incubators & Accelerators
These platforms often assign mentors to each startup based on their niche.
Industry Events & Conferences
Attend pitch days, summits, and networking events. Don't just sit through the sessions—approach speakers and panelists directly.
LinkedIn Outreach
Send personalized messages to professionals you admire. Briefly explain your startup, what you're looking for, and why you chose them.
Academic Institutions
Professors, alumni groups, and entrepreneurship departments at universities like LUMS, IBA, NUST, and FAST often provide mentorship.
How to Maintain a Great Mentor Relationship
Be respectful of their time. Keep meetings purposeful and concise.
Be coachable. Accept constructive criticism and act on feedback.
Set clear goals. Define what you hope to achieve through the mentorship.
Keep them updated. Share wins, lessons learned, and progress.
Give back. Show appreciation, refer them, or support their initiatives when possible.
Qualities of a Great Mentor
Local Case Example
Sadia's Success Story
Sadia, a 25-year-old founder in Lahore, launched a local skincare brand with zero prior experience. Her mentor—an industry expert from NIC Lahore—guided her through branding, packaging compliance, pricing strategies, and influencer marketing.
From Zero to Hero
Conclusion
Behind every successful entrepreneur is often an unseen figure—a mentor—who offered guidance, opened doors, and held them steady through storms. In Pakistan's growing but challenging startup environment, mentorship could be the single most underrated success factor.
Don't wait for the perfect mentor. Start with someone a few steps ahead of you. Learn actively. Grow consistently. Then become a mentor yourself—because giving back is the real legacy of entrepreneurship.