Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — The international innovation week InnoWeek–2026 has opened in Tashkent, bringing together representatives of the scientific community, technology companies, startup ecosystems and investment organisations from more than 30 countries.
Over three days, participants will showcase scientific developments, advanced technologies and promising business projects, while discussing opportunities for international cooperation.
The event, held under the theme “Innovation for a Changing World”, was organised by the Agency for Innovative Development under Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Higher Education and Science.
The opening ceremony was attended by Oybek Yuldoshev, First Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Science, representatives of government agencies and diplomatic missions, heads of universities and research organisations, scientists, technology experts, young inventors, entrepreneurs and investors.
Speakers highlighted InnoWeek’s role in bringing research into production, developing value chains and unlocking the country’s innovation potential.
Particular emphasis was placed on aligning scientific research with the real needs of the economy, making more effective use of domestic scientists and research institutions, and adopting modern technologies.
International cooperation and technological developments
This year’s event features broad international participation. Around 200 representatives from more than 30 countries are taking part, including Japan, China, South Korea, the United States, Canada, Italy, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Switzerland, India, Singapore, Türkiye, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, among others.
Participants include representatives of around 50 international companies, universities, research centres, venture capital funds, financial institutions and other partner organisations.
The event aims to facilitate the exchange of experience, strengthen scientific and technological ties, and explore prospects for joint projects.
One of the main events is an exhibition of innovative developments covering more than 15,000 square metres. It features 265 exhibitors, including 225 domestic and 40 international participants. The exhibition includes 12 thematic sections and 240 stands showcasing 750 innovative products.
Universities, research organisations, innovative enterprises, spin-off companies and early-stage startups are presenting their products and developments, alongside Yashnabad Technopark and regional youth technology parks. Participants in the World Bank’s MUNIS project, as well as inventors and innovators, are also represented.
Exhibitors from China, South Korea, Japan, Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, Germany, Hungary and Kazakhstan are presenting their technological solutions. The exhibition offers an opportunity to compare domestic developments with international practices and establish new business contacts.
Three days of scientific discussions and business meetings
The InnoWeek–2026 programme includes 21 events in various formats. These comprise six international and national forums, five award ceremonies, three sessions, two Demo Days, two presentations, a conference, and two scientific discussions and roundtables.
During the meetings, scientists, researchers, entrepreneurs and investors will discuss the practical application of research, technology commercialisation and the promotion of new projects.
B2B negotiations will also feature prominently, giving domestic companies an opportunity to establish contacts with foreign partners, discuss mutually beneficial proposals and explore joint initiatives.
Such ties are important for strengthening cooperation between science and industry, bringing innovative products to market and expanding international business relations.
Support for science and training
The programme includes an initiative to strengthen the technical facilities of educational and research institutions. A total of 50 South Korean-made tractors powered by compressed natural gas, a cleaner-burning fuel, are planned to be donated to universities and research organisations.
The event will also focus on supporting scientists, inventors, researchers and young innovators. Awards will be presented to winners of the “100 Best Regional Innovation Projects” and “Best University Inventor” competitions, as well as competitions in intellectual activity. Recipients of the “Leader of Innovative Ideas” badge will also be recognised.
These initiatives aim to encourage research, promote invention and increase young people’s interest in scientific and technological creativity.
The organisers have also arranged interactive activities for visitors. The venue features a children’s area, a virtual reality space offering virtual journeys, and areas with innovative entertainment games.
Visitors can therefore not only learn about modern technologies but also experience their capabilities firsthand.
From scientific ideas to practical results
InnoWeek–2026 aims to strengthen ties between science, education, industry and business.
Showcasing new developments, holding direct talks with potential partners and discussing commercialisation mechanisms are intended to help turn scientific ideas into marketable products and technological solutions.
For Uzbekistan, closer cooperation between these sectors is important for improving the competitiveness of domestic innovations, expanding innovation-driven entrepreneurship and attracting international partners to joint projects.
The international innovation week will run until 29 October.
