Representatives of IT Park Uzbekistan participated in a roundtable discussion organized by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) in collaboration with “U-Enter.” The event brought together key players in Uzbekistan’s startup ecosystem, including startups, investors, and government officials, to discuss ways to enhance the country’s innovative potential.
Star Venture Program: Global Opportunities
The “Star Venture” program has supported over 300 startups across 26 countries, helping them attract $529 million in investments and create new jobs. EBRD representatives emphasized that this program offers Uzbek startups unique opportunities to access international markets.
IT Park Uzbekistan Initiatives
Deputy Director of IT Park, Mahliyo Muksinova, highlighted IT Park’s achievements, including bringing the “Plug and Play Tech Center” to Uzbekistan and launching new programs in collaboration with Silkroad Innovation Hub and Astana Hub. She also noted the participation of Uzbek startups in major international platforms such as “TechCrunch Disrupt” and “Web Summit.”
Additionally, state-supported initiatives, such as tax incentives and interest-free loans, were underlined as crucial measures to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in the country.
IT Park Ventures: Global Ambitions
The “IT Park Ventures” venture fund, with $10 million in capital, supports startups in key sectors such as artificial intelligence, green technologies, fintech, edtech, and game development. Besides funding, the fund offers mentoring, consulting, and access to international networks and investors.
Conclusion
Participants discussed strengthening international partnerships and attracting investments as essential steps for positioning Uzbekistan as a hub for innovation in Central Asia. Initiatives like “Star Venture” and “IT Park Ventures” demonstrate Uzbekistan’s ambition to become a significant player in the global startup ecosystem, reinforcing its role as a strategic partner for investors and entrepreneurs alike.
