Uzbek Startups Compete at Global Startup Awards

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Representatives of Uzbekistan are making a strong showing on the international stage, competing in multiple categories of the Global Startup Awards (GSA), reflecting the rapid growth and innovation potential of the country’s startup ecosystem.

The Global Startup Awards is one of the world’s largest platforms for startups, aimed at identifying and supporting fast-growing entrepreneurs through global competitions, events, and a broad community network. Over 12 years, GSA has expanded to 19 regions and 154 countries, receiving more than 160,000 applications and over 822,000 votes. Its participants include 16 unicorn companies with a combined valuation exceeding US$64 billion.

This year, Uzbek startups are competing across several key categories. Akmaljon Musaev (HyperApp) and Azizjon Rakhimov (UzEduAI) have been nominated for “Founder of the Year,” while Rakhimakhon Nugmanova is competing for “Ecosystem Hero of the Year.”

Among company nominations, HyperApp is shortlisted for “Startup of the Year,” Catextra for “Green Tech Startup of the Year,” UzVC for “Investor of the Year,” and MoliyAI for “Fintech Startup of the Year.”

Previously, HyperApp and its founder Akmaljon Musaev won “Startup of the Year” and “Founder of the Year” in Central Asia. This year, they are competing for global titles, underlining the increasing international recognition of Uzbek ventures.

Participation in GSA highlights not only the achievements of individual startups but also the broader development of Uzbekistan’s innovation ecosystem. Organizers have encouraged entrepreneurs, investors, and the wider community to support the country’s nominees on the global platform.