Madiha Yaqoob
Mudassir Saleem Malik is a visionary entrepreneur, seasoned technology leader, and mentor who has profoundly shaped Pakistan’s tech and entrepreneurial ecosystem. As the CEO of AppsGenii Technologies, Mudassir has built a global reputation for driving innovation, scaling businesses, and empowering future entrepreneurs. In this exclusive interview, he shares insights into his journey, strategies for building impactful startups, and advice for aspiring leaders in the tech world.
- Q: What motivated you to embark on your entrepreneurial journey? What were the early days like?
A: My entrepreneurial journey began with a vision to create solutions that drive real impact. From a young age, I was fascinated by how technology could transform industries and solve complex problems. That passion ultimately led me to start AppsGenii in 2010.
The early days were a mix of excitement and uncertainty. We began with a small but talented team, limited resources, and an unwavering focus on delivering value. Having a co-founder like Adnan Tahir, who shared my commitment to excellence, was instrumental. Every challenge we faced became an opportunity to learn and grow, and those formative years laid the foundation for our success today.
- Q: As someone who has built and scaled multiple ventures, what key factors do you believe contribute to success?
A: Success begins with clarity of vision and a deep understanding of the market you want to serve. You need to identify a genuine problem and create a solution that provides measurable value.
Teamwork is another critical factor. Surrounding yourself with people who bring complementary skills and share your passion is essential. At AppsGenii, I’ve always prioritized hiring individuals who are not only skilled but also aligned with our mission.
Lastly, adaptability is vital. The tech landscape evolves rapidly, and businesses must stay agile to capitalize on opportunities and navigate challenges effectively.
- Q: AppsGenii has a strong international presence. How did you position the company to compete on a global scale?
A: AppsGenii was built with a global mindset from day one. We focused on creating scalable solutions like ERP systems, RPA tools, and Web 3.0 applications that cater to the needs of diverse industries.
To compete globally, we ensured our solutions met international quality standards and tailored them to the unique needs of different markets. Networking has also been key—we’ve showcased our expertise at events like SaaStr, Tech Crunch, Collision, LEAP, GDC, CES, GITEX, and MWC Barcelona, which helped us build relationships with clients and partners worldwide.
Ultimately, a customer-first approach has been our biggest asset. By consistently delivering value, we’ve built trust and credibility in the global market.
- Q: How do you balance scaling a business with fostering innovation?
A: Scaling and innovation must go hand in hand. At AppsGenii, we’ve created an environment where experimentation and creativity are encouraged. Innovation doesn’t happen in isolation; it’s driven by feedback from clients, market trends, and our team’s insights.
For example, when scaling Aventrio, a sales and lead generation platform co-founded with Atif and Haseeb, we prioritized adding features based on real customer needs. Similarly, at BlackholeStudio.io, we’re exploring how Unreal Engine can redefine virtual experiences, balancing creative innovation with scalable business models.
By fostering a culture of continuous improvement, we ensure that innovation remains a priority even as we grow.
- Q: What do you consider your greatest achievement as an entrepreneur?
A: For me, the greatest achievement is not just building successful businesses but creating a lasting impact. Through AppsGenii, we’ve empowered enterprises to streamline operations and grow sustainably.
Beyond the numbers, I take pride in the talent we’ve nurtured and the opportunities we’ve created for young professionals. Being able to mentor startups, guide them toward success, and see them flourish is immensely rewarding. It’s not just about what I’ve built, but about the ripple effects those ventures have created in the industry and the lives of people.
- Q: What advice do you have for young entrepreneurs looking to build scalable startups?
A: My advice would be to start with a clear understanding of your market and focus on solving a real problem. Building a great product is important, but execution is what sets successful startups apart.
I always emphasize the importance of building the right team—your people are your biggest asset. Seek co-founders and collaborators who bring complementary strengths and a shared vision. For instance, both Aventrio and BlackholeStudio.io are examples of how the right partnerships can drive innovation and success.
Finally, embrace failure as a learning opportunity. The entrepreneurial journey is full of ups and downs, but persistence and adaptability will see you through.
- Q: How was your experience judging startups at incubators and accelerators? What insights can you share?
A: Judging startups at incubators like NIC (National Incubation Center) and Plan9, as well as accelerators like Founder Institute, has been incredibly inspiring. Each interaction has given me insight into the sheer talent and creativity of young entrepreneurs in Pakistan.
What stands out is the ambition and resilience these founders bring, often addressing complex challenges with limited resources. My role has been to provide guidance, help them refine their pitches, and offer actionable feedback to align their business models with market needs. Seeing startups evolve and thrive as a result of these programs is deeply rewarding.
- Q: What is your vision for the future of Pakistan’s entrepreneurial ecosystem?
A: Pakistan’s entrepreneurial ecosystem is at a pivotal moment. Over the next 5-10 years, I see immense potential for growth, provided we address a few critical areas. First, we need stronger collaborations between academia, industry, and government to ensure that young entrepreneurs have access to resources, mentorship, and funding.
Second, fostering a culture of innovation is crucial. Platforms like AppsGenii, Aventrio, and BlackholeStudio.io show that with the right support, startups can compete on a global stage. We need more accelerators, incubators, and policies that support risk-taking and innovation.
Lastly, a focus on skill development and digital literacy will be key. Empowering the next generation with the skills they need to succeed will create a self-sustaining ecosystem that drives long-term economic growth.
Closing Statement
Mudassir Saleem Malik’s entrepreneurial journey reflects the power of vision, innovation, and adaptability. As the CEO of AppsGenii Technologies and a mentor to startups like Aventrio and BlackholeStudio.io, he continues to shape industries, empower entrepreneurs, and inspire future leaders. His story is a testament to how technology and strategy, combined with passion and perseverance, can create a lasting global impact.
