News

The opening of the Central Asia Startup CUP has become the flagship event of the startup ecosystem in Central Asia.

Startups, venture and angel investors, corporations, mentors, government officials, and international partners are coming together on one platform to discuss the future of technology, exchange experience, and find partners for scaling up.

A landmark moment of the opening ceremony was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Digital Development of the Kyrgyz Republic and Accelerate Prosperity, the leading accelerator in Kyrgyzstan. Rahat Jusumambetova, Deputy Minister of Digital Development, highlighted AP’s significant contribution to the development of the country's startup ecosystem.

The first day of the forum is packed with engaging activities: panel discussions with international speakers, expert-led sessions on venture capital, and the official opening ceremony of the Central Asia Startup CUP.

Key sessions today included:

  • A keynote by Asel Sartbaeva, scientist and founder of the UK-based biotech startup EnsiliTech, which has raised £1.2 million to revolutionize vaccine transportation.
  • Expert panels on venture capital, angel investing, women’s entrepreneurship, AI development, fintech, and much more.

“Through our programs, we unlock the entrepreneurial potential of early-stage founders, equipping them with the knowledge and tools needed to successfully launch and scale their businesses. These tools not only help individuals thrive but also support the Kyrgyz Republic in achieving its full economic potential,”

– stated Nick Bowler, British Ambassador to Kyrgyzstan.

On April 25, the forum will continue with:

  • Startup pitching sessions in front of international investors, with opportunities to:
  • Join an acceleration program with a $100,000 fund,
  • Win up to $10,000 in investment,
  • Compete in a global startup contest for a $1 million investment prize,
  • Qualify for a trip to Silicon Valley.

“Accelerate Prosperity is one of the most active players in the startup ecosystem. We are proud to bring a platform like the Central Asia Startup Cup to the region—uniting the top startup leaders of Central Asia,”

– said Zhyldyz Isabekova, Country Director of AP Kyrgyzstan.

The second day will also feature:

  • The Startup Alley Expo,
  • Networking sessions,
  • Practical masterclasses,
  • Discussions on the future of fintech, healthtech, deeptech, and women-led entrepreneurship in Central Asia.

The forum has already brought together over 15 venture funds and angel investors with a combined capital of $300 million under management, including Sturgeon Capital, Pegasus Tech Ventures, MA7 Ventures, White Hill Capital, and others.

Organizers:

The forum is organized by Accelerate Prosperity (AP) with the support of the UK’s Inclusive Green Growth Program in Central Asia, co-financed by the Government of the United Kingdom and the Aga Khan Foundation, and in partnership with Kyrgyzpatent.