National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan

The event served as a platform for dialogue among representatives of government agencies, startups, investors, and academic institutions from Central Asian countries, all united by a shared commitment to building a sustainable green entrepreneurship ecosystem in the region.

Welcoming the participants, the Minister of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Aziz Abdukhakimov, emphasized the importance of such initiatives amid growing climate challenges: “Central Asia has enormous potential for the development of environmentally oriented technologies. Now, more than ever, it is important to strengthen partnerships and support sustainable entrepreneurship. This exhibition has become an excellent platform for launching new initiatives and establishing a ‘green technology bridge’ among countries in the region.”

Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Yerlan Nyssanbayev, noted at the opening of the event that the development of green startups and the adoption of clean technologies are vital components of sustainable transformation: “Kazakhstan became the first country in Central Asia to join the GCIP initiative. This not only gave us access to global expertise and investment but also enabled us to support over 40 green startups. We see tangible results: projects are not only gaining international recognition but also entering new markets.”

During the session, the development of the GCIP-Kazakhstan program since 2022 was presented—from initial negotiations with UNIDO to the entry of startups into international markets. Over the course of two years, 200 applications were submitted, 46 startups completed the acceleration program, and by 2025, the number of applications had increased to 350. The program offers startups not only mentorship and educational support but also assistance in attracting investment.  Among the program’s achievements are:

The panel discussion and open Q&A session demonstrated a high level of interest from representatives of Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan in adapting and implementing similar acceleration programs. Particular attention was given to the proposal to establish a Central Asia Green Tech Hub in Turkestan as a regional center for green startups, investors, and the scientific community, with a focus on preparing for the 2026 Regional Climate Summit.

The GCIP-Kazakhstan session at Eco Expo Central Asia 2025 showcased practical examples of how technological innovation can address the region’s climate and environmental challenges. This was more than just an exchange of experience—it was a concrete step toward forming a sustainable and integrated startup ecosystem in Central Asia.

According to participants, initiatives like this act as catalysts for a new environmental mindset and lay the groundwork for international cooperation and sustainable economic growth.

“Only through coordinated efforts, partnership, and investments in the future can we transform Central Asia into a sustainable, innovative, and competitive region,” emphasized Yerlan Nyssanbayev.