Azerbaijan among eligible countries as Astana Hub launches tech accelerator

Astana Hub, Central Asia's largest international technology park, has launched a new international accelerator programme aimed at helping mature technology startups from across Central Eurasia, including Azerbaijan, expand into the Kazakhstani market.

According to Astana Hub, the Central Eurasia Market Entry programme is a 12-week accelerator designed for startups that have reached the Product-Market Fit or Scaling stage. The initiative targets companies that have already achieved initial sales, validated market demand or demonstrated sustained growth, and are ready to adapt their products for the Central Eurasian market, Caliber.Az reports per local media. 

The programme is open to startups from Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Georgia, Armenia, Russia, Türkiye, China and Mongolia. Training will be offered in both Russian and English.

Following a competitive selection process, 15 startups will be chosen to participate. Selected companies will receive mentoring from international experts, support in entering the Kazakhstani market, assistance in improving product and business metrics, and access to corporate partners and the regional startup ecosystem. Participants will also be eligible to seek investment through Astana Hub Ventures.

The accelerator will provide participating teams with free workspace at Almaty Hub, along with shared accommodation for two representatives from each startup throughout the 12-week programme.

A central component of the initiative will be practical engagement with the Kazakhstani market. Startups will have the opportunity to launch pilot projects with local companies, establish business partnerships and tailor their products to local market needs, with the goal of securing commercial contracts during the acceleration programme.

The programme will conclude with a Demo Day, where participating startups will present their projects to venture capital funds, angel investors, corporate partners and other potential investors. The strongest projects will be shortlisted by Astana Hub Ventures for possible follow-on investment.

The accelerator will be hosted at Almaty Hub with the support of the Almaty City Administration. Applications are open until August 16, 2026.

By Sabina Mammadli