The Presidential IT-Startup Competition, with a $1 million prize fund, will be held annually in Uzbekistan. With a generous total prize fund of $1 million, the competition seeks to recognize the finest startup projects in digital technologies. This exciting initiative was made possible thanks to the participation of Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and it is in line with the Cabinet of Ministers resolution of February 15, which outlines the contest’s main and special directions.
The main direction of the contest encompasses several categories, including technologies rooted in artificial intelligence, digital solutions in the social sphere, advancements in information and cybersecurity, entrepreneurship and financial technologies, and computer and mobile gaming. This comprehensive approach ensures a diverse range of cutting-edge innovations will be evaluated and celebrated.
One of the event’s highlights will be the Grand Prix Hackathon, where participants will have 72 hours to create a digital solution.
The prize pool for the contest will be distributed across different categories in the main track:
- 1st place: $100,000;
- 2nd place: $50,000;
- 3rd place: $30,000.
Additionally, in its special category, the Grand Prix of the Hackathon will award a single winner with a prize of $100,000.
The contest unfolds in five stages:
- Acceptance of applications: May 1 to July 1.
- Preliminary selection: July 1 to July 25.
- Online evaluation of selected projects: September 5 to October 5.
- Offline evaluation (Demo Day): November 5 to 10.
- Determination and announcement of the winners: November 20 to December 25.
Conditions of participation
Only Uzbekistan citizens can participate in the main direction of the contest, while the special direction also welcomes foreign citizens who are employees of IT Park residents. As for the age requirement, young people up to 30 can participate in all directions. To foster collaboration, teams should consist of 3-8 people for the main direction and 3-5 people for the special direction.
Participation in the contest is exclusive to one selected category in the main direction, and in the special direction, it is free of charge. An independent organization with extensive international experience in startup development will judge the competition.
The winners in the main directions of the competition will be determined through public voting, promoting engagement, and community involvement. On the other hand, the independent organization will select the hackathon winners, acknowledging their expertise and impartiality.
In conclusion, the Presidential IT-Startup Competition represents a significant stride forward in promoting technological innovation within Uzbekistan. By offering a substantial $1 million prize fund, the competition is set to become an annual hub of creativity, fostering and celebrating the country’s bright, forward-thinking minds.
The competition is a powerful testament to the government’s commitment to nurturing the IT sector. Including a hackathon takes this initiative further, challenging participants to bring their best in a high-paced, creative environment.
Whether you’re an aspiring tech entrepreneur or simply a follower of Uzbekistan’s digital evolution, this annual event is certain to become a milestone on the country’s tech calendar.