Industrial Information Network (IIN) Launched - July 26, 2001

Industrial Information Network (IIN) was launched in Islamabad on July 26, 2001. The Federal Minister for Science and Technology Dr. Atta-ur-Rehman was the Chief Guest at the launching ceremony of the project.

The Industrial Information Network project is meant for the development of small medium enterprises (SME) in Pakistan. The network is designed to become the largest source of information generation, exchange and dissemination, and to provide value-added support to small medium enterprises.

The project was initiated by the UNIDO in May, this year, in collaboration with Small Medium Enterprise Development Authority (SMEDA), Small Business Finance Corporation (SBFC), COMSATS, Ministry of Science and Technology and Export Promotion Bureau.

The project will help overcome structural and institutional flaws, which have been experienced in development of the SME sector in Pakistan. These problems pertain to lack of support services, entrepreneurship development and SME promotion.

The network's implementation will enhance efficiency in terms of competitiveness and thus bringing about sustainability to the SME sector. The network is envisaged to attract foreign investment, assist in providing employment and increasing exports. The purpose of the network is to make the SME sector in Pakistan viable for investment and overall uplift of the economy