Uzbekistan’s 2027 startup contest: Who can apply and how much is at stake?
Foreign founders developing AI tools, fintech platforms and video games will be able to pitch for investment in Uzbekistan from April 2027. Getting through the selection rounds will also mean setting up a company in the country.
The Uzbek government has approved the launch of the Land of Startups competition, which establishes a $5 million funding pool.
The contest will see 25 winners, five in each category, receive a government investment of up to $200,000 each through the IT Park’s venture fund.
The categories in question are:
- AI and Edtech;
- Healthcare and welfare sectors;
- Fintech;
- Creative industries and gaming;
- and B2B or industrial solutions.
Teams operating or registered overseas are not charged for entry. Each applicant is only allowed to participate in one category, and the rules state that a team must have at least four members.
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When will the application round start?
Shortlisted teams are to be selected by 15 November, followed by a demonstration day and awards ceremony by 15 December. The Land of Startups’ timetable allows three months after the ceremony for teams to finalise investment terms, sign contracts and receive funding.
Applications will be accepted through a dedicated section of StartupBase, with a 30 June 2027 deadline under the published schedule. International experts will assess applications in July, selecting at least 25 teams per category for the next stage. Results are due by 25 July.
The application form requests information about the project’s development stage, revenue figures, and countries of operation. An accompanying PDF presentation, a three-minute video, a link to the minimum viable product, and a GitHub link make up the supporting materials.
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Applicants must confirm that submitted materials contain no confidential commercial information, and the terms permit their use in competition publicity.
Localisation requirement
Teams that make the cut will have until 20 August 2027 to register a legal entity in Uzbekistan to participate in the support programme. Online and in-person events are both part of the programme, which runs until November 1st. Every week, teams will be evaluated, and at least one co-founder or founder must be present.
We will negotiate the funding terms after we have completed our due diligence. A convertible loan, an investment with the promise of future equity, or some other lawful instrument may be used by the venture capital.
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Upon fulfilling performance objectives and other terms outlined in the contract, the amount owing will be paid out in Uzbek soum at a rate determined by the central bank on the day of payment.
