FAQs

The challenge is open to:

• Startups and entrepreneurs
• University students and faculty
• Research and development teams

Participants can apply as individuals or teams.

Participants must meet the following criteria:

Startups:

• Startups must have a technology/products addressing KE’s identified challenges or the power sector.
• Reselling existing solutions is prohibited.
• Startups must demonstrate significant growth or impact potential.
• Pakistan-based startups are preferred, but international participation is allowed.
• Registration as an entity is required to receive the award.

Academia:

• Researchers/students must be affiliated with an HEC-recognized or reputable global university.
• Eligibility includes faculty, research staff, and 4th-year or higher-level students.
• Individual or group applications (max 4 members) are allowed.
• Student proposals require faculty endorsement and supervision.
• Innovation must align with KE’s identified challenge statements.

Interested participants can apply online through the official KE EPIC portal by completing the application form and submitting a proposal. The deadline to apply is April 11, 2025 and details can be found on the website.

The deadline for applications is April 11, 2025. Late submissions will not be entertained.

No, participation in the EPIC is completely free.

Proposals will be evaluated based on:

• Proposals should offer innovative and original solutions that stand out from existing approaches.
• Solutions must be feasible, implementable, and scalable to benefit larger audiences.
• Proposals should align with K-Electric’s strategic objectives and challenge statements.
• Solutions must demonstrate clear and measurable impact on the real-world.
• Proposals should be technically sound, financially sustainable, and well-planned for execution.

The EPIC includes:

• Application Submission: Submit your idea or solution online.
• Shortlisting: Selected ideas will be presented to an internal jury
• Final Pitch: Present your solution to a panel of judges at the final event.

Participants will gain:

• Cash prizes of 3 million, funding, or collaboration opportunities for top-performing teams
• Networking opportunities with energy sector experts (subject to shortlisting).
• Potential opportunity to collaborate with K-Electric to pilot their solution
• Recognition and media coverage (subject to shortlisting)

Yes, participants from across Pakistan and beyond are encouraged to apply.

For additional information or queries, please email epic@ke.com.pk or visit the challenge’s website.

Yes, proposals must include:

• Problem statement
• Proposed solution
• Technical details and feasibility
• Estimated impact and scalability
• Proposed Budget
• Timeline for implementation

The template can be downloaded from the official KE EPIC portal.

A working prototype is not mandatory but highly encouraged. Participants with developed solutions or prototypes may have an advantage during the evaluation process.

Proposals must be submitted in English. Presentations during the final pitch may include a mix of English and Urdu for presentation purposes only.

Yes, virtual participation options will be available for the final pitch if you are unable to attend in person.

Yes, teams can update their proposals if they are shortlisted. No changes are allowed after the final submission deadline.