European companies reached an agreement on joint programs with IT Park Uzbekistan

Representatives from IT Park Uzbekistan, headed by CEO Abdulakhad Kuchkarov, convened with a delegation of innovative firms and organizations from Finland, Estonia, and Latvia. Throughout the discussions, the parties agreed to collaborate on programs aimed at supporting startups, sharing expertise, and involving European companies in the enhancement of Uzbekistan’s IT ecosystem.

The delegation comprised members from Finland, Estonia, and Latvia, including Kimmo Kumpulainen, Head of Polar Partners; Anu Puusaag from Tehnopol; Azar Bunyad-Zade and Emil Asgarbayli of B2Btrade; and Lauri Antalainen of Digiwise, who also holds the position of President of the Estonian Business Angels Network. Latvia's representatives included Evija Pudane, Janis Tenisons, and Oksana Polko from CLEANTECH LATVIA.

Founded in 2012, Polar Partners (Finland) is a consulting firm that specializes in educational initiatives and the digital transformation of schools. The company has executed projects in over 10 countries and possesses significant expertise in implementing modern educational standards and EdTech solutions.

Tallinn Science Park Tehnopol (Estonia) stands as the largest science and business park in the country, accommodating more than 350 startups, technology firms, and research institutions. It offers extensive support for innovative projects, including acceleration, mentorship, access to venture capital, and entry into international markets. Tehnopol actively partners with public entities and corporations to foster entrepreneurship and facilitate the commercialization of research.

B2Btrade (Estonia) focuses on international trade and business consulting, aiding export and import activities, helping companies identify global partners, and nurturing sustainable business relationships.

CLEANTECH LATVIA (Latvia) is an association that unites over 40 companies dedicated to green technology and sustainable development. The organization advocates for environmentally friendly solutions across energy, industry, and urban infrastructure while supporting the international growth of Latvian enterprises.

The meeting concentrated on the evolution of Uzbekistan’s IT sector and startup ecosystem, the prospects for European companies to broaden their operations, and collaborative educational initiatives.

The Estonian representatives conveyed their readiness to share knowledge through seminars and workshops aimed at Uzbek specialists, as well as to invite Uzbek startups to take part in significant international events, such as Latitude59, which is Estonia’s largest annual technology and startup conference.

There was a strong focus on aiding startups via collaborative soft-landing programs that include infrastructure and legal support, along with professional exchange initiatives. The discussions also covered potential collaboration in the development of venture capital, support services, and the commercialization of university research. Lauri Antalainen, President of the Estonian Business Angels Network and a representative of Digiwise, expressed a strong interest in investigating Uzbek startups and establishing connections with local investors.

Additionally, an agreement was made to facilitate meetings during Slush 2025, which is set to occur on 19–20 November in Helsinki. The delegation also invited Uzbekistan to participate in the Latitude59 conference in Estonia.

Collaboration with Finland, Estonia, and Latvia will enable IT Park Uzbekistan to incorporate leading international practices into the advancement of the national startup ecosystem, broaden its global network of partners, and create new opportunities for Uzbek companies and professionals in the European market.