Pakistani Startup BIONIKS Wins Prestigious Zero Project Award 2025 for AI-Driven Prosthetic Innovations

Islamabad , Pakistan — BIONIKS, a pioneering Pakistani startup specializing in advanced prosthetics and orthotics, has made history as the first company from the country to receive the Zero Project Award 2025. Recognized for its groundbreaking use of artificial intelligence (AI) and 3D scanning technology to empower individuals with disabilities, the startup was honored at a United Nations event this week for its contributions to inclusive workforce development.

Founded in 2016, BIONIKS has emerged as a leader in creating affordable, customized prosthetic limbs tailored to the unique needs of users. By integrating AI tools and 3D imaging, the company streamlines the design process, ensuring precision and reducing production time. To date, BIONIKS has delivered over 700 prosthetic devices across Pakistan and beyond, addressing a critical gap in accessible healthcare solutions.

The Zero Project Award, an annual initiative celebrating innovations that advance the rights of persons with disabilities, selected BIONIKS from 522 global nominations. The startup was lauded for aligning with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), particularly in fostering economic inclusion through technology.

“This award belongs to every person with disabilities who deserves the chance to live independently and with dignity,” said Anas Niaz, CEO of BIONIKS, in a statement. “Our vision is to eliminate barriers through advanced prosthetic solutions, ensuring individuals can thrive in their personal and professional lives.”

The startup’s work gained international acclaim in 2021 after crafting a multi-grip bionic arm for four-year-old Mohammed Sideeq, making him the youngest recipient of such a device in Pakistan. This case underscored BIONIKS’ commitment to serving diverse age groups and addressing complex medical needs.

In January 2025, BIONIKS expanded its humanitarian efforts by launching a mobile AI-powered prosthetic factory in Gaza. The initiative provides on-the-ground support to amputees in conflict-affected regions, offering customized limbs produced using portable 3D printers and AI diagnostics. This project highlights the startup’s scalable model and dedication to global inclusivity.

The Zero Project Award not only spotlights BIONIKS’ technological prowess but also marks a significant milestone for Pakistan’s startup ecosystem. As the first Pakistani recipient of the honor, the company sets a precedent for leveraging cutting-edge technology to address social challenges.

“BIONIKS exemplifies how innovation can drive systemic change,” remarked a Zero Project spokesperson during the award ceremony. “Their work demonstrates that scalable, impactful solutions for disability inclusion are achievable even in resource-constrained environments.”

With plans to expand its reach across South Asia and the Middle East, BIONIKS aims to bridge the global demand for affordable prosthetics, estimated by the World Health Organization to exceed 40 million people worldwide. By prioritizing user-centric design and affordability, the startup is redefining the future of assistive technology—one limb at a time.

As Anas Niaz aptly summarizes: “Technology should serve humanity. For us, success means seeing someone walk into a job interview or hug their child confidently, knowing our devices gave them that chance.”

For a nation often overlooked in global tech conversations, BIONIKS’ achievement is a powerful reminder of innovation’s potential to transform lives—and put Pakistan firmly on the map of social impact leadership.