Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Central Asian Innovation Hubs is expanding its regional alliance, with Tajikistan becoming the platform’s newest member. This move strengthens Central Asia’s position as an interconnected and investment-attractive innovation region with global reach.

The memorandum was signed during the first C5+1 summit in Japan by Abdulahad Kuchkarov, CEO of IT Park Uzbekistan; Magzhan Madiev, CEO of Astana Hub; and Temur Khisamutdinov, CEO of IT Park Dushanbe.

Tajikistan’s entry provides local startups with access to international acceleration programs, global technology exhibitions, and structured support for entering new markets within the alliance.

The initiative was launched in 2024 during ICT Week Uzbekistan by IT Park Uzbekistan in collaboration with Astana Hub. Since its inception, the alliance has enabled over 100 Central Asian startups to participate in major international exhibitions, including Web Summit Lisbon, TechCrunch Disrupt, GITEX Global, WAIC Shanghai, InMerge, London Tech Week, and Eurasia Tech Week.

During this period, Uzbek startups raised over US$82 million through the platform, and more than 10 companies secured investments as a result of exhibition participation and pitch sessions. In 2025, over 30 Central Asian startups began structured scaling in Kazakhstan, the UAE, and the US through programs such as Draper University, AlchemistX, and Silicon Valley Residency.

In the Middle East, the Tumar Innovation Hub was opened within GITEX Global Dubai to support regional startups in the MENA market. In Shanghai, the Khan-Tengri Innovation Hub became the first platform connecting the innovation ecosystems of Central Asia and China.

Regional integration is reinforced through joint programs such as the Kazakhstan Market Entry Program and Digital Startup Awards, which create a two-way flow of technology, talent, and market opportunities.

“Tajikistan’s accession reflects the practical approach of Central Asian Innovation Hubs. Working as part of a single alliance makes us stronger and more visible on the international stage,” said Abdulahad Kuchkarov.

Magzhan Madiev emphasized that Tajikistan’s integration will accelerate the development of innovative technologies, attract investment, and enhance the region’s global competitiveness. Temur Khisamutdinov added that the memorandum lays the foundation for joint development of the IT sector and digital economy in Central Asia.

The alliance’s goal remains unchanged: to create a sustainable cross-border innovation platform that enables regional startups to raise capital and compete globally as a unified ecosystem rather than as fragmented national initiatives.