Kazakh and Uzbek startups will head to Shanghai as part of the Digital Startups Scale Up program

Astana Hub and IT Park Uzbekistan, together with Khan Tengri Innovation Hub, announced the launch of the Digital Startups Scale Up: Shanghai program, aimed at startups from Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan ready to scale their businesses and enter the world’s largest market—China.

From November 3 to December 28, 2025, eight selected projects—four from each country—will be able to immerse themselves in Shanghai’s innovative ecosystem, test their products in a new market, receive mentoring support from Chinese experts, and establish connections with investors and partners.

The program includes accommodation and workspace in the Kehai Building, Pudong, Shanghai, workshops, individual consultations, and a final Demo Day. The participation fee is $5000 per startup, but flights, visas, and personal expenses are paid separately.

The initiative is implemented as part of the Central Asian Innovation Hubs project and aims to strengthen cooperation between Central Asia and China in the field of technology and innovation.

Source: Astana Hub