485 applications from 27 countries: startups from Central Eurasia are vying for a spot in TechCrunch Startup Battlefield

Silkroad Innovation Hub has completed the first regional selection in history, opening a direct path to the finals of the prestigious TechCrunch Startup Battlefield competition, which will take place in San Francisco from October 27–29, 2025, as part of the largest technology conference, TechCrunch Disrupt.

A total of 485 applications were submitted from 27 countries, including Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Georgia, Tajikistan, Turkey, Singapore, UAE, Qatar, and others. Only three teams will have the opportunity to represent the region on the largest startup stage in Silicon Valley. This is a chance to present their solutions in front of global investors, media, and technology leaders.

Aset Abdualiev, CEO and Founder of Silkroad Innovation Hub
We are witnessing tremendous interest from across the region, which is a clear signal that the Central Eurasian ecosystem is ready for the international market. Out of 485 applications, only three teams will advance to the finals — the competitive chance is 0.65% per spot, making the selection more competitive than admission to Harvard, Stanford, or the renowned accelerator Y Combinator. This high level of competition reflects the incredible diversity of ideas and the quality of our projects. For our region, these are not just numbers; this is a historic moment that shows the entire world: our region is full of talent and ambition.

The regional selection covers sectors including FinTech, EdTech, MedTech, artificial intelligence, and other innovative fields. An expert jury will conduct a multi-stage evaluation of projects based on criteria such as innovation, scalability, team strength, and market potential.

The competition consists of four stages:

Country-level selections: July 21 – August 14

Regional Final: August 15

Global Final in San Francisco: October 27–29

Finalists will have the opportunity to present to leading investors and technology industry representatives from Silicon Valley, compete for a $100,000 prize, and gain media coverage.

Finalists will take the stage at TechCrunch Startup Battlefield in front of leading investors, media, and industry leaders, compete for a $100,000 prize, and receive extensive media coverage.

The initiative is supported by leading regional innovation hubs, including Astana Hub, IT Park Uzbekistan, Future Laboratory, Sabah Hub, IDDA, IT Park Mongolia, Accelerate Prosperity, IT Park Dushanbe, Startup Centrum, and others, with Freedom Holding Corp. serving as the main partner.

TechCrunch Disrupt

Silkroad Innovation Hub 

Founded in the heart of Silicon Valley in 2023, Silkroad Innovation Hub connects the Central Eurasian startup ecosystem with global technology leaders, creating unique opportunities for entrepreneurs, investors, and key players in the region. It helps scale businesses, find strategic partners, and enter global markets.