On the 14th of November, the second day of the International start-up forum 2025 was held at the «Iş Nokady» coworking centre. It was organised by UNDP jointly with the Ministry of communications of Turkmenistan as part of the International exhibition and scientific conference «Türkmentel – 2025».
The program of the day began with a start-up exhibition, featuring over 20 projects developed and presented by young talented Turkmen entrepreneurs. Many impressive projects were aimed at making modern life more comfortable and dynamic.
The official part of the event was opened by UNDP deputy Resident representative in Turkmenistan Tomica Paovic. In his opening remarks, he emphasised that the Forum goes beyond discussing the world of digital technologies – it is a celebration of the diversity of ideas, views, and experiences.
– Together, we are laying the foundation for a dynamic and inclusive start-up ecosystem in Central Asia – one that is not only sustainable but also truly transformative. The innovative solutions presented have the potential to strengthen partnerships and drive meaningful change in the digital landscape of region, – noted Mr. Paovic.
Next, experts and participants discussed strengthening regional cooperation in developing the Central Asian start-up ecosystem at a panel discussion moderated by UNDP International consultant Bagrat Yengibaryan. Representatives of the high-tech parks of the region and innovation centres participated in the discussion.
The key event was a pitch session, where start-ups from Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan presented their ideas. The pitches were evaluated by a jury of regional experts – investment managers, start-up founders, and business development specialists.
The jury awarded certificates and prizes to the authors of the two most interesting works. The winner in the «Best innovative solution» category was «ArtSkin», a start-up from Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, which develops artificial skin for prosthetics. «Hazyna Stock», a digital media platform from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, founded by Baynazar Muhammedov, won the «Best presentation» category.
Commenting on the results, UNDP Resident representative in Turkmenistan Narine Saakyan emphasised that Turkmenistan, like many other countries, has talented people. Today, in the context of the rapid development of the IT sector, investments in young people open up vast opportunities for growth.
–The International start-up forum 2025 clearly demonstrated high entrepreneurial potential of Turkmenistan and its growing role in the digital economy. It demonstrates how innovation can drive inclusive economic growth, accelerate digital transformation, and open up new opportunities for young people in the country and throughout the region, –noted Yagmyrguly Garovov, Director of the «Sanly Çözgüt IT Meýdança» IT-park.
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