Aqyl Tech & IT-Aiel and the SG Women community: current opportunities for women in October

We have gathered the most relevant programs for October 2025 — for starting, growing, and scaling in the technology sector.

Aqyl Tech & IT-Aiel
An educational initiative aimed at developing financial and digital skills among the youth of Kazakhstan, including rural youth and girls. The program includes online lessons, workshops, and seminars, as well as the training of over 100 trainers. Participants receive a flexible learning format, expert support, and practical knowledge that helps increase economic independence, build careers, and enhance competitiveness in the labor market.

SG Women Community
A new community for women startup founders, launched by Startup Garage Uzbekistan. The platform brings together women who want to turn their ideas into viable businesses, offering them mentorship, workshops, masterclasses, networking, and practical support at every stage of the startup journey — from idea to MVP and investment.

Global Voice
A new community program by Women in Tech Uzbekistan, dedicated to the stories of Uzbek women building careers abroad. The first episode, Working in Europe, will bring together specialists from companies such as Apple, Amazon, Microsoft, Zendesk, and others to share insights about life and careers in Europe, provide practical advice, and inspire other women toward international development.

When: October 9 at 19:00
Where: Online

II Entrepreneurship Call 2025
An international program aimed at supporting women with a transformational mindset and social drive who are implementing innovative technology projects. The program is open to participants from around the world, including Central Asian countries, and offers six months of mentorship, strategic support, increased visibility, and financial grants.

Application deadline: October 15

Role Model Masterclass Series 
A series of masterclasses for women in technology and business, aimed at developing leadership, confidence, and professional influence. Participants will gain practical knowledge, develop skills in visibility and networking, meet inspiring women leaders, and become role models for others.

When: October 14 / November 11 / December 9
Where: Online

Women’s Stories Day
WeAreTechWomen invites women working in the technology sector to join the Women’s Stories Day initiative as part of Women in Tech Week 2025. Participants are encouraged to share their stories about their journey in IT to inspire other women and show that there are many different paths into the technology industry. 

When: October 16

FinTech & Digital Transformation Awards
The FIBA 2025 Forum has announced the start of applications for an award recognizing the most innovative products, projects, and technologies in the finance sector. FinTech companies, banks, and digital organizations can participate. This year, awards will be presented in eight categories, including FinTech Growth Champion, The Most Disruptive FinTech Product, Excellence in Digital Payments, and AI Excellence in Digital Banking.

Application deadline: October 18

Training of Trainers: Women ICT Frontier Initiative
This program is designed for women entrepreneurs and trainers seeking to develop skills in digital technologies and business. Participants will master e-commerce, digital marketing, data analytics, and the use of artificial intelligence for business growth. The selected 30 participants will receive mentorship support and the opportunity to become part of a network of women leaders driving digital transformation in the region.

Application deadline: October 21

When: October 28-30
Where: Bishkek

Women's Hack Day
The largest competition for girls in IT, consisting of three rounds: mathematics, competitive programming, and product design. Teams of three to four girls — schoolgirls, college students, and university students — can participate.

Application deadline: October 22 at 23:59

When: October 25
Where: Astana, Nazarbayev University

Alma Ascent
A pitch competition for startups founded by immigrants, with a prize pool of $100,000 with no equity or obligations. Early-stage companies founded by immigrants are eligible to participate and must be willing to travel to Palo Alto, California, for the finals on November 20, 2025. Winners will receive $60,000 and $40,000, along with mentorship support from leading Silicon Valley investors.

Application deadline: November 6 

Aurora Tech Award
An international award for women tech founders, supported by inDrive. The global open call for 2026 is currently open. Winners receive up to $50,000 with no equity stake, access to international investors, and media coverage that helps startups go global. 

Application deadline: November 12

Women in GovTech 2025
An international call for applications from GovInsider for women working in government technology. The program recognizes and promotes women leaders who use technology to improve citizens' lives and increase trust in government. In its ninth edition, the special report will select at least 50 participants from around the world, whose stories will be published in an interview format.

Application deadline: November 21 

TechGirls 2026
An international educational program by the U.S. Department of State for girls aged 15-17 interested in STEM fields. Participants from Central Asia can complete a summer internship in the United States, where they study technology, develop leadership skills, and implement social projects after returning home.

Application deadline: December 4