Plug and Play Accelerator and "Startup Nation": Competitions and Programs for Startups from Central Asia

We have compiled a selection of events where you can win cash prizes and receive support for the development of your project.

Plug and Play Accelerator

Program participants will gain access to a wide range of resources, including mentoring, workshops, and networking opportunities. The accelerator will also help participants enter international markets and attract investment from leading venture capital funds.

The second wave of the accelerator program, taking place in Tashkent, is open to startups from around the world. International startups can participate in person or online.

Language of instruction: English.

Deadline: August 28

You can submit an application via this link.

KAZENERGY Start-Up Battle

A competition for startups and projects in the energy sector.

The total prize fund is 3,000,000 tenge.

The competition features three categories:

— best innovative startup in energy

— best startup in the oil and gas industry

— best startup in energy efficiency.

The winner of each category will receive 1,000,000 tenge.

Deadline: September 10

Registration is available via this link.

“Descendants of Independence” Program

Under this program, young people aged 14 to 35 who are registered in Almaty can receive grants to implement their projects or business ideas. Grants are allocated across the following areas:

— information technology

— science

— culture

— business

— media.

Winners in each category will receive 1,000,000 tenge.

Deadline: October 10

For more details, visit this link.

Quick Start Business Accelerator by NURIS

Application criteria:

— the team must consist of at least two people

— willingness to dedicate at least 25 hours per week for 10 weeks during the acceleration program

— presence of a functioning product

— proof of traction: evidence of demand for the product or service

— at least one team member must be fluent in English

— readiness to establish a legal entity to participate in the accelerator program.

Registration is available via this link.

Deadline: September 3

“Startup Nation”

The goal of “Startup Nation” is to educate youth and engage them in the business sector, providing them with a platform to gain entrepreneurial experience, find creative solutions, and develop startup thinking.

At the event, 1,000 startup founders will present their nationally scaled startup projects.

The prize fund is $15,000.

When: September 16–17

Where: 7. Bishkek, Aaly Tokombayev Street, 7/6, AUCA

You can register via this link.

Deadline: September 14

Startup Alley at Digital Bridge 2023

A unique opportunity to find investors, increase your project’s visibility, and connect with the best startups from Central Asia. Startups from around the world are invited to participate.

What participants can expect at the Startup Alley:

— a booth to present your project

— design and printing of a project card

— workspace

— shelf for promotional materials

— necessary technical equipment: table, chair, and power supply.

You can submit an application via this link.

Deadline: September 25