Organization of Pakistani Entrepreneurs of North America

The Organization of Pakistani Entrepreneurs and Professionals (OPEN) is a not-for-profit organization, whose sole focus is the promotion of entrepreneurship and professional growth. OPEN is a secular and non-political organization.

History

OPEN was formed in 1998 by a group of Pakistani American entrepreneurs and corporate executives, and was registered in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in the year 2000. The first OPEN chapter was formed in Boston, MA.

Goals

• To facilitate and encourage the growth of Pakistani American entrepreneurs and professionals in the Silicon Valley.

• To promote and provide growth opportunities for Pakistani Americans within the greater community.

• To provide financing assistance and mentorship to enterprising individuals through programs such as the business plan competition and monthly business plan critiques.

• To develop ongoing events through which local professionals can meet and network amongst themselves and with other influential individuals.

• To recognize accomplishments of Pakistani American entrepreneurs and professionals.

Chapters

OPEN has chapters in New England, Silicon Valley, New York, Chicago, Houston, Washington DC and Atlanta.

OPEN Karachi is the first OPEN chapter outside US which was launched in the later half of 2011 ( http://www.openkarachi.org/ ).

OPEN Chapters have at its core a Charter membership comprising Pakistanis in the areas of finance, technology, telecommunications, biotech and consulting in North America. OPEN regularly organizes events pertaining to current issues in business and entrepreneurship. In addition to OPEN'S Charter Members, OPEN includes executive committees of seasoned entrepreneurs and professionals from a multitude of industries and professions that help plan, coordinate, and execute OPEN's mission. Each chapter's charter members and executive committee members are joined by General Members who are due-paying members of OPEN that participate in and contribute to OPEN's events and services.

External links

• http://open-global.org/
• http://open-newyork.org/
• http://www.open-siliconvalley.org/
• http://www.openwashingtondc.org
• http://www.open-chicago.org/
• http://www.openatlanta.org/
• http://www.openkarachi.org
• http://www.openlahore.com/
• http://www.open-newengland.com/
• http://open-london.org/
• http://www.openhouston.org/