The number of startups in Kazakhstan in 2026 increased 5-fold, exceeding 1500, compared to 2020. This is stated in a study by the analytical agency RISE Research & Advisory in conjunction with the Astana Hub technology hub and Sapa Group, the results of which were presented at AI & Digital Bridge 2026 in Astana.
The study allows for an objective assessment of the current state of the ecosystem, identifies areas for further growth, and enables government agencies, investors, corporations, and other market participants to make more informed decisions.
According to experts, the volume of venture financing this year could exceed 460 million dollars. Investors have invested in more than 200 companies, with 45 of them receiving over 1 million dollars. One company, Higgsfield AI, has achieved unicorn status (its market value exceeded 1 billion dollars).
According to the national strategy Digital Qazaqstan, at least 3 Kazakhstani unicorns should enter the global market by 2029. Simultaneously, the export of IT services will increase. Thus, in 2025, Kazakhstani developers implemented digital products and provided services to customers from other countries for 1.1 billion dollars.
The study states that almost 380 startups monetized their work. Moreover, 76% of them began to receive their first revenues within 1 year after product launch, and 52% within six months.
Domestic startup teams often use AI technologies in their work. 82% of companies have integrated AI into their products. For 30% of developers, it is the core of the product, and for 52%, it is a separate function.