Uzbekistan to Launch International Startup Competition with $5 Million Fund
Starting in April 2027, Uzbekistan will hold an annual international startup competition, Land of Startups, with a $5 million fund. 25 winners will be able to receive up to $200,000 each after verification.
On October 28, 2026, the Cabinet of Ministers adopted a resolution to hold the Land of Startups competition. It will be organized annually to attract foreign startups and their founders to Uzbekistan, accelerate technology transfer, and develop the country as a regional startup hub.
The competition will be part of measures to create a comprehensive startup support ecosystem. Participants will be able to present projects in the fields of artificial intelligence, digital solutions for education, healthcare, and public services, financial technologies, creative industries, and the development of computer and mobile games, as well as business and industrial solutions.
Each of the 25 winning teams will be able to receive investments of up to $200,000. The funds will be provided by a venture fund under the IT Park directorate after a comprehensive review of the project and team.
The resolution also amends the rules of operation for IT Park. In particular, the mandatory integration of accounting and measurement tools developed by residents with the tax authorities' information systems is abolished.
The list of permitted areas for IT Park residents will be expanded. It will include the production and sale of Internet of Things and artificial intelligence devices, micro- and nanoelectronics, intelligent robots, as well as the operation of business angel clubs.
