ALMATY – A special technology park for IT startups officially opened in Almaty. The Astana Hub Technology Park aims to support the development of nearly 100 young technology companies and create conditions for innovation growth in Kazakhstan.
Project Overview
The technology park, covering an area of 12,000 square meters, is located in the center of Almaty. The project was implemented with the participation of the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation and Aerospace Industry and private investors. Total investment in the project amounted to $25 million.
Main Objectives
The technology park aims to achieve the following objectives:
- Startup support – providing office space, equipment and consulting services
- Infrastructure development – creating modern working conditions for IT companies
- Attracting investment – connecting startups with venture funds and investors
- Creating jobs – opening at least 500 new jobs in the IT sector
- International cooperation – establishing partnerships with global technology companies
"The technology park will become an important center for the development of Kazakhstan's digital economy. We provide all necessary conditions for IT startups to grow and scale their business" – Minister of Digital Development Bagdat Mussin
Services and Opportunities
For Startups
The technology park offers comprehensive support for startups at all stages of development:
- Co-working spaces – modern offices with all amenities
- Equipment – access to computers, servers and specialized equipment
- Mentorship – experienced mentors from leading IT companies
- Training – educational programs and master classes
- Networking – meetings with investors and partners
- Legal support – assistance with registration and legal issues
Special Conditions
Participants in the technology park receive special conditions and benefits:
- Reduced office rental rates for the first year
- Tax incentives for IT companies
- Access to government grants and programs
- Simplified visa procedures for foreign specialists
- Free legal and accounting consultations
First Residents
More than 30 IT startups have already become the first residents of the technology park. Among them are companies working in the following areas:
- Artificial Intelligence – development of AI solutions for business
- Fintech – financial technologies and digital payments
- E-commerce – online trading platforms
- EdTech – educational technologies and platforms
- HealthTech – medical technologies and telemedicine
- AgriTech – agricultural technologies
Success Stories
Startup "SmartAgro"
One of the first residents of the technology park, SmartAgro startup, develops AI-based solutions for agriculture. The company has already raised $1.5 million in investment and plans to expand to Central Asian countries.
FinPay Project
The FinPay project, working on digital payment solutions, received support from the technology park and successfully launched its product. The company now processes more than 10,000 transactions per day.
Future Development Plans
The technology park management plans to further develop the infrastructure and expand opportunities for residents:
- 2025 – opening of an innovation laboratory and R&D center
- 2026 – launching an acceleration program for startups
- 2027 – establishing partnerships with leading global technology parks
- 2028 – expanding the technology park's area to 20,000 square meters
International Cooperation
The technology park actively develops international partnerships. Memorandums of cooperation have already been signed with technology parks in Singapore, South Korea, and Israel. These partnerships will enable knowledge exchange, joint projects, and attracting foreign investment.
Educational Programs
The technology park plans to launch several educational programs:
- Startup school for young entrepreneurs
- Programming courses in modern languages
- Master classes from successful IT entrepreneurs
- International conferences and hackathons
Economic Impact
According to experts, the technology park will have a significant impact on Kazakhstan's digital economy development:
- GDP contribution – expected to add $50 million annually to GDP
- Job creation – over 500 new jobs in the IT sector
- Investment attraction – expected to attract $100+ million in investments
- Export potential – development of IT export worth $20 million
"The opening of the technology park is an important step in developing Kazakhstan's innovation ecosystem. We are confident that many successful international companies will emerge from here" – Almaty Mayor Erbolat Dossaev
Application Process
IT companies and startups interested in joining the technology park can submit applications on the official website. The selection process includes several stages:
- Online application submission
- Project evaluation by an expert committee
- Presentation of the project to investors
- Making a decision on admission to the technology park
The next application acceptance period will begin on February 1, 2025. More than 200 applications from IT startups across Kazakhstan are expected.
Conclusion
The opening of the technology park in Almaty marks an important milestone in the development of Kazakhstan's digital economy. The project creates conditions for the growth of IT startups, attracting investment and creating high-paying jobs. Experts are confident that the technology park will become a key center for innovation development in Central Asia.
For more information and application submissions, visit the technology park's official website or contact the administration at +7 (727) 250-50-50.
