GB Tech Growth Surges as Freelancers Earn $15m Annually
The GB tech growth story continues to gain attention as freelancers in Gilgit Baltistan now earn nearly $15 million every year. Their income far exceeds the earnings of most regional IT firms. This shift highlights the rising digital talent in the northern region.
Young professionals are choosing freelancing due to flexible work options. In addition, global clients provide steady opportunities. As a result, thousands of skilled individuals now contribute to the local digital economy.
Two major software technology parks in Gilgit and Skardu strengthened this progress. These centers offer office space, backup power, and reliable internet. Their support has helped create more than 1,000 jobs while training over 3,000 IT students.
Expanding Hubs and Training
Several organizations are investing resources to support GB’s digital workforce. The Special Communications Organization and the Aga Khan Development Network built a freelancing hub in Gilgit. It currently hosts 14 IT companies and 45 freelancers, creating a space for collaboration and innovation.
The Aga Khan Foundation also developed three large tech hubs in different districts. These hubs offer co-working spaces, training labs, and incubation support. Therefore, many new entrepreneurs feel confident starting their digital careers.
Meanwhile, NAVTTC launched new skills programmes to uplift local talent. These short courses include web development, mobile app creation, and digital marketing. Local institutes conduct these sessions to make training accessible. As a result, more young people can enter the digital workforce without leaving the region.
Gilgit Baltistan’s tech sector remains small, but its potential is clear. Around 300 IT and ITeS companies are registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan. However, only 100 to 120 firms actively operate. The overall tech workforce is estimated at 6,000 to 7,000 individuals, including both company employees and freelancers.
Despite this progress, challenges remain. Frequent electricity outages affect nearly 88% of IT firms. Patchy broadband coverage also limits growth. These issues underscore the need for stronger power and telecom infrastructure across GB.
Even with these hurdles, the region’s digital shift continues. Better training, improved facilities, and rising global demand may help accelerate GB’s transformation in the coming years.
