Tashkent Forum Unites Government, Investors, and Startups to Boost Uzbekistan’s Innovation Ecosystem

A two-day forum dedicated to the development of Uzbekistan’s startup ecosystem and venture financing has concluded in the Tashkent region, bringing together more than 50 representatives from government bodies, the private sector, international organizations, investors, and startups.

Organized as part of a joint project between the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Ministry of Economy and Finance of Uzbekistan, and supported by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), the event aimed to empower youth to participate actively in the digital economy and foster digital entrepreneurship, The Caspian Post reports, citing Uzbek media.

On the first day, participants engaged in practical discussions on startup building, including market entry strategies, minimum viable product (MVP) development, marketing, and team formation. Challenges faced by early-stage startups were a focal point. A panel session with venture funds, IT Park Uzbekistan, and startup platforms highlighted cooperation opportunities in co-investment and pre-acceleration.

The second day featured a Public-Private Dialogue (PPD), with over 40 stakeholders addressing the gap between investment availability and startup readiness. Discussions highlighted barriers such as limited mentoring, regional disparities in support programs, and weak international networks. Donor agencies and founders presented practical strategies to enhance investment appeal.

The forum concluded with the initiation of a national “roadmap” for startup ecosystem development. Key components include launching joint investment mechanisms, expanding early-stage support programs, and strengthening regional and institutional collaboration.

Promoting innovation and entrepreneurship remains a strategic priority for Uzbekistan. While progress has been made in supporting youth entrepreneurs and building venture infrastructure, speakers emphasized the need for coordinated, long-term action among public, private, and international actors to ensure sustainable ecosystem growth.