Uzbekistan has been recognized as the fastest-growing startup ecosystem in the world according to the Global Startup Ecosystem Index 2026. The country received the award at the first Global Startup Ecosystem Awards ceremony, held in Tashkent as part of ICT Week 2026. According to StartupBlink, over the year, Uzbekistan's ecosystem indicators grew by 227.3%, and for the first time, seven cities in the country entered the global ranking. Tashkent, meanwhile, became the leading startup city in Central Asia.

The head of IT Park Uzbekistan, Azamat Karamatov, announced the preparation of a five-year strategy for the development of the startup ecosystem and the transition to the next stage of its international development. Among the new initiatives are a $200 million project jointly with the Asian Development Bank for the development of AI research and technology commercialization, as well as the creation of the Enterprise Uzbekistan jurisdiction, which should simplify the entry of local startups into the global market.

The forum also discussed state support programs. The Presidential competition for startups, launched in 2023, has contributed to the creation of more than 1000 projects over three years, attracting over $10 million in investments and creating more than 400 jobs. In 2026, its prize fund has been increased to $5 million. Another $1 million is provided for the AI startup competition and $5 million for the "Startup Land" program.

IT Park Uzbekistan also develops regional and international infrastructure: the organization manages 14 regional branches, six foreign representative offices, and six hubs. A research center with six laboratories is being built in Nurafshan, which will be able to cover up to 50% of startups' R&D expenses — within $50 thousand per project.