$2 Billion in Venture Capital and 5,000 Startups: Uzbekistan Enters IT Acceleration Mode

Uzbekistan intends to attract up to $2 billion in venture investments and increase the number of startups to 5,000 by 2030. These goals were announced on January 20 at a meeting chaired by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. It is expected that the development of the startup environment will create at least 20,000 new jobs and consolidate the country's position on the global technology map.

At the end of 2024–2025, the total value of the startup and venture ecosystem is estimated at $3.9 billion. There are more than 750 local startups in the country, supported by 15 venture funds, and the total capital exceeds $180 million. By 2030, this figure is planned to be increased more than 10 times. To this end, a four-stage support system is being introduced — from idea to scaling, including grants, tax incentives, and compensation for export costs.

In parallel, Uzbekistan is strengthening the legal and technological framework for the development of AI. The President has already signed a relevant law, and specialized laboratories will appear in 15 leading universities. The authorities also plan to implement AI in more than 50 digital services, expand the MyGov.uz portal, create a Unified Population Register, and accelerate the development of 5G, high-speed Internet, and satellite communications in the regions.