GITEX Central Asia 2026

GITEX Central Asia & Caucasus is a significant technology and startup event in Central Asia, focusing on AI advancements, deep technology, and international collaborations. This event aims to establish the region as a center for digital leadership, connecting Kazakhstan and the Caucasus with the global tech landscape. It attracts a diverse audience, including tech executives and startups, and is recognized for its role in fostering innovation and partnerships.

Event Highlights

• Venue: Expo IEC, Astana, Kazakhstan
• Participants: Over 10,000 tech leaders, including more than 4,500 C-level executives and VPs
• Exhibitors: More than 700 enterprise companies and over 40 high-growth startups
• Countries Involved: 60+

Exhibiting Sectors

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Cybersecurity
• Financial Technology (Fintech)
• Blockchain and Cryptocurrency
• Cloud Computing and Connectivity
• 5G and Telecommunications
• Educational Technology (Edtech)
• Healthcare Technology (Healthtech)
• Smart City Solutions
• Green Technology (Greentech)

Reasons to Focus on Central Asia & the Caucasus

• Digital Market Potential: 90% of public services in Kazakhstan are digitized, with a digital market potential of $71 billion.
• Growth in Venture Capital: Projected $95 million in VC funding for 2024, reflecting a sixfold increase over five years.
• Infrastructure for the Future: Development of AI export hubs, supercomputing facilities, and digital projects linked to CAREC.
• Access to Talent: Anticipated 100,000 skilled IT professionals by 2025, with 60% of universities offering AI courses by 2029.

Kazakhstan as a Launchpad for Technology Growth

• Projected $2.28 billion ICT market by 2030, with an annual growth rate of 9.36%.
• IT services sector valued at $1.88 billion, contributing to enterprise modernization.
• Investment of $1.4 billion in AI and Big Data research and development, promoting deep tech advancement.

Government Support

This event is organized by the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development of Kazakhstan in collaboration with Astana Hub, aligning with the country's goal of becoming a leading innovation-driven economy.

Astana Hub Insights

• $1.3 billion generated in startup revenue
• Over $700 million in IT exports
• $177 million raised in 2024

Key Focus Areas

• Transformation of the Digital Economy – Promoting digital adoption across the region.
• Artificial Intelligence – Innovations from smart agriculture to AI export initiatives through the $5 billion alem.ai Centre.
• Cyber Resilience – Protecting critical infrastructure across national borders.
• Industry 5.0 – Emphasizing automation, IoT, and intelligent supply chains.
• Energy Transition – Initiatives in solar and wind energy aiming for 100% renewable sources by 2030.
• Infrastructure and Connectivity – Development of 5G, fiber optics, and the Digital Silk Road.
• Innovation and Investment – Facilitating venture capital and global investment opportunities.
• Talent Development – Enhancing regional IT skills to meet market needs.

Programme Overview

Stages and Focus Areas

• Main Stage: Summit discussions
• Dark Stage: Focus on smart connectivity and applied AI
• 10X Stage: Programs for startups and venture initiatives
• Workshop Room: Interactive workshops and product demonstrations
• Tech Talk Stage: Sessions led by industry experts

Investor Engagement Programme

• Opportunities to connect with prominent venture capitalists, accelerators, angel investors, and institutional investors focused on Central Asia.

Startup Competition

• Opportunity to pitch for funding, gain global visibility, and establish investor connections.
• Showcase innovative solutions from Kazakhstan and other regions.