“Young entrepreneurs” championship to be held

Starting next year, Uzbekistan will host the “Young entrepreneurs” championship. The top 100 ideas will be selected, and each startup will receive up to 1 billion soums in investment. This was announced today, August 20, during President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s open dialogue with entrepreneurs.

It was stated that the expenses of financial and marketing experts will be covered to help turn these projects into recognized brands.

"I believe that if we award the winners on August 20, Entrepreneurs’ Day, it will serve as a great motivation for young entrepreneurs," the Head of State said.

It was reported that currently, more than 600 startups are operating in Uzbekistan. Eight years ago, their number could be counted on one hand.

"Notably, in just seven months, startups have attracted a record $264 million in foreign investment, which is four times more than the total investments received throughout 2024. For this reason, efforts to support startups will be further intensified," Mirziyoyev said.

One thousand startup ideas from young entrepreneurs will be commercialized, with 200 of them entering international markets. The most advanced technologies will be introduced, and 100 local startups will be transformed into globally competitive businesses. $100 million will be allocated for this purpose.