An international startup competition with a $5 million prize fund will be launched in Uzbekistan

In Uzbekistan, the Land of Startups international startup competition is launching with a prize pool of $5 million. Participants will be invited to compete for venture funding and the chance to implement their developments into the country's economy. The first selection round will begin in April 2027.

The competition is aimed at attracting foreign startups and their founders to Uzbekistan. The authorities expect the project to help make the republic a regional startup hub, as well as accelerate the implementation of innovations and the transfer of new technologies.

Project evaluation will cover five areas:

- Artificial Intelligence — AI-based solutions for various industries.

- Digital technologies in the social sphere — development of tools for education, healthcare, and other sectors.

- Financial technologies — e-commerce, corporate, and financial services.

- Creative industry and gaming — software products, computer and mobile games.

- B2B and industry — high-tech solutions for enterprises, including those based on scientific research.

A special organizing committee will be created to conduct the competition. It will approve the criteria for participants, ensure fair selection, and award the winners. Assistance will also be provided to the best projects to help them integrate into the social and industrial sectors and expand into foreign markets.

The winners will receive venture funding. Its amount will depend on the performance results of the projects.

In addition, Uzbekistan is introducing new support mechanisms for youth startups: credits, loans, and partial expense reimbursements, as well as training programs for IT specialists.