The Plug and Play Uzbekistan Expo is set to return on May 6, 2026, at the Turkistan Concert Hall in Tashkent. Organized by Plug and Play—a world-leading VC firm and accelerator—in partnership with the Ministry of Digital Technologies and IT Park Uzbekistan, the event will feature over 30 startups from Central Asia, the Caucasus, Europe, and beyond.
Driving innovation in Central Asia
Since its launch in 2023, Plug and Play has collaborated with local authorities to strengthen the regional startup ecosystem. This Expo marks a significant milestone, celebrating the graduation of Batch 5 and Batch 6 startups. These companies have completed a rigorous 3-month program focused on scaling within sectors like Fintech, AI, and the Creative Economy.
High-impact agenda
The Expo is designed to facilitate global networking and strategic partnerships:
- VC Mixer: An invite-only session where startups and investors engage in fast-paced speed-pitching.
- Main Stage: Featuring expert presentations, panel discussions, and live pitches from the graduating cohorts.
- Expo Space: A curated area for deep-dive conversations between founders and attendees, followed by an extended networking session.
Featured speakers
The event boasts a lineup of international experts in AI and business innovation, including:
- Simon Ohler (Executive Coach, ohler.coach), Rosario Basilotta (AI Director, EQQO.AI), Sebastien Stanley-Jones (Director, Flippa.com), Renand Grando (Market Entry Expert), as well as Plug and Play Partners Sascha Karimpour and Alfredo Gomez Soria.
Startups & Focus areas
- Batch 5 (14 Startups): Specializing in Enterprise & AI, Fintech, HealthTech, Cybersecurity, PropTech, CleanTech, HRTech, EdTech, and E-commerce.
- Batch 6 (18 Startups): Innovating in Gaming & Entertainment, EdTech, Fashion, EventTech, Digital Platforms, Content Creation & AI, and Advertising.
Event details
- Date: Wednesday, May 6, 2026
- Time: 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM
- Location: Turkistan Concert Hall, Tashkent, Uzbekistan
- Tickets: Entry is free via registration (limited seating)
- Social Media: Follow on LinkedIn
About Plug and Play Uzbekistan
Established in 2023, Plug and Play Uzbekistan acts as an open innovation platform. It connects local and international stakeholders to accelerate growth in the startup ecosystem, providing Uzbek startups with mentorship and global pathways while helping international firms enter the growing Central Asian market.
