Uzbekistan has approved the rules for the “Most Innovative Idea” national competition among students of state higher education institutions. The top three projects at the national stage will receive financial support of UZS 500 million, UZS 300 million and UZS 200 million, respectively.
The competition will be held annually from September to December in two stages. The first stage will take place at universities, while the national stage will be organized by the Agency for Innovative Development.
10 areas of competition
Students can submit their ideas in the following areas:
- artificial intelligence and digital technologies;
- fintech;
- AgTech;
- cybersecurity;
- healthcare;
- pharmaceuticals;
- defense and security;
- energy efficiency;
- water technologies;
- science and education.
Each student may submit only one innovative idea. Universities will accept applications until October 10.
At the university stage, the top three projects will receive a total of UZS 100 million:
1st place — UZS 50 million
2nd place — UZS 30 million
3rd place — UZS 20 million
The grants will be allocated from universities’ extra-budgetary funds. The winners will then advance to the national stage.
At the national stage, the three best projects will receive:
1st place — UZS 500 million
2nd place — UZS 300 million
3rd place — UZS 200 million
However, these funds will not be transferred directly to the students’ personal accounts. Instead, they will be transferred to the university’s account under a tripartite agreement involving the project author, the Agency for Innovative Development and the relevant university. The agreement will specify the project implementation period, planned activities and monitoring of the targeted use of funds.
How will projects be evaluated?
Projects will be assessed using a 100-point system based on five criteria, with a maximum of 20 points for each:
- scientific and innovative novelty;
- relevance of the idea;
- differences from existing solutions;
- justification of the proposed budget;
- expected results.
At the national stage, projects will be evaluated by a commission consisting of scientists, government representatives and relevant industry experts. Participants from the regions may present their projects online. The national stage must be completed by December 20.
How can students apply?
Students who want to participate should apply through the state higher education institution where they study. According to the regulations, universities must announce the start of applications for the first stage from September 10. Students can submit their applications to the university’s selection committee until October 10.
