By 2030, Uzbekistan plans to increase the number of startups to 5,000, which will create at least 20,000 new jobs. This was announced on January 20 during a meeting chaired by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
It was noted at the event that in 2024–2025, the total value of the country’s startup and venture ecosystem reached $3.9 billion. Currently, there are more than 750 local startups supported by 15 venture funds, with a total venture capital volume exceeding $180 million. The goal is to increase this figure to $2 billion by 2030.
A four-stage startup support system is being introduced in the country, covering the idea, development, launch, and scaling phases. This includes grants, tax incentives, co-financing mechanisms, and compensation for export expenses.
“We have set a task to establish at least 500 startup projects valued at over $1 million, at least 100 startups valued at over $10 million, and at least 25 startups valued at over $100 million. The President instructed not only to adopt decisions but also to ensure the widespread promotion and popularization of these initiatives,” stated Minister of Digital Technologies Sherzod Shermatov in an interview with the “Uzbekistan 24” channel.
The Minister also announced that the President has signed a law on artificial intelligence, aimed at preventing abuses in the use of AI technologies. “Previously, there were no clear fundamental concepts regarding what artificial intelligence is, how it works, and in which fields it can be applied, nor was there an appropriate legal framework,” Shermatov emphasized.
As part of expanding the application of AI, laboratories are planned to be established in 15 of the country’s leading universities. Graduates will be required to obtain certificates confirming their leadership in the field of artificial intelligence and possess proficiency in at least one foreign language within their professional domain. Additionally, at least 100 new digital services will be added to the MyGov.uz portal.
The President instructed the introduction of artificial intelligence technologies into more than 50 services, the creation of a Single Population Registry, and the complete digitalization of processes such as starting a business, accounting for employees of individual entrepreneurs, issuing bank cards, obtaining SIM cards, and providing insurance and advertising services.
Furthermore, the Head of State emphasized the necessity of expanding 5G technologies, high-speed internet, and satellite communications in the regions.
These measures are designed to ensure the comprehensive digitalization of the economy and create conditions for the large-scale development of innovative companies in Uzbekistan.
