Uzbekistan and gener8tor discussed the development of the startup ecosystem and the launch of founder support programs

Abdulakhad Kuchkarov, the CEO of IT Park Uzbekistan, convened a meeting with Joe Kirgues, the Co-founder of gener8tor. The discussion focused on potential collaboration in fostering startups, innovation, and entrepreneurship throughout the regions of Uzbekistan.

Founded in 2012 in Madison, Wisconsin (USA), gener8tor is recognized as one of the premier American startup accelerators and venture partners, collaborating with universities, corporations, and government entities. Currently, the organization operates in over 5 countries and 46 communities, having supported more than 1,600 startups that have collectively secured upwards of $2.9 billion in funding and generated over 12,000 jobs.

Key Discussion Topics

A primary focus of the conversation was the establishment of a regional gener8tor office in Uzbekistan, which would hold member company status within IT Park Uzbekistan. This initiative aims to enhance access to structured acceleration and entrepreneurship training programs for startups nationwide.

The parties also examined the potential for implementing the gALPHA and gBETA programs within the university incubation centers and startup studios of IT Park Uzbekistan. These programs are intended to assist aspiring founders and students during the idea formation and pre-seed phases by providing mentorship and access to resources for early-stage development.

Particular emphasis was placed on launching a Training of Trainers (ToT) program, which is aimed at training and certifying local mentors to facilitate acceleration programs. This initiative seeks to cultivate a pool of qualified trainers and establish a sustainable regional startup support network, ensuring widespread access to incubation and pre-acceleration programs across all regions of Uzbekistan.

Next Steps and Significance for the Country

Following the meeting, the parties formalized their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Strategic Cooperation. The execution of joint projects with gener8tor is expected to expedite the growth of Uzbekistan’s startup ecosystem, create new job opportunities, and assist young entrepreneurs in nurturing their innovative enterprises.

Additionally, startups and partner companies that are alumni of gener8tor will be introduced to Uzbekistan’s startup support frameworks and business incentives, which include assistance from IT Park Uzbekistan in setting up local offices and achieving member company status.

The collaboration with gener8tor marks a significant milestone in bolstering Uzbekistan’s role as a regional hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. For IT Park Uzbekistan, this alliance will create new avenues for attracting international partners, implementing cutting-edge educational and acceleration methodologies, and broadening the network of regional startup studios. Collaborative efforts will elevate the standard of entrepreneurship education, enhance startups' access to funding and global markets, and aid in the overall acceleration of Uzbekistan’s digital transformation.