The international innovation week InnoWeek–2026 has started in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. The event gathered representatives of the scientific community, technology companies, startup ecosystems, and investment organizations from over thirty countries.
Over three days, participants will demonstrate scientific achievements, advanced technologies, and promising business projects, as well as discuss opportunities for international cooperation. The conference is held under the slogan 'Innovation for a Changing World' and is organized by the Agency for Innovative Development under the Ministry of Higher Education and Science of Uzbekistan.
The opening ceremony was attended by Oibek Yuldoshev, the First Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Science, representatives of state agencies and diplomatic missions, university and research center leaders, scientists, technical experts, young inventors, entrepreneurs, and investors.
Speakers emphasized the significance of InnoWeek in the process of transitioning from research to production, developing value chains, and unlocking the country's innovative potential. Special attention was paid to aligning scientific research with real economic needs, more effective utilization of domestic scientists and research institutions, and the implementation of modern technologies.
This year, the event features broad international coverage. Approximately 200 delegates from more than 30 countries are participating, including Japan, China, South Korea, the USA, Canada, Italy, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Switzerland, India, Singapore, Turkey, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan.
Participants include representatives from about 50 international companies, universities, research centers, venture capital funds, financial institutions, and other partner organizations. The goal of the event is to promote experience exchange, strengthen scientific and technical ties, and seek prospects for joint projects.
One of the key events is the exhibition of innovative developments, covering an area of over 15,000 square meters. It features 265 exhibitors, including 225 local and 40 international participants. The exhibition is divided into 12 thematic sections and includes 240 stands showcasing 750 innovative products.
Universities, research organizations, innovative enterprises, spin-offs, and early-stage startups present their developments alongside the Yashnabad Technopark and regional youth technology parks. Participants of the World Bank project MUNIS, as well as inventors and innovators, are also represented.
Exhibitors from China, South Korea, Japan, Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, Germany, Hungary, and Kazakhstan are demonstrating their technological solutions. The exhibition provides an opportunity to compare local developments with global practices and establish new business contacts.
The InnoWeek–2026 program includes 21 events in various formats. These consist of six international and national forums, five award ceremonies, three sessions, two Demo Days, two presentations, one conference, as well as two scientific discussions and round tables.
During the meetings, scientists, researchers, entrepreneurs, and investors will discuss the practical application of research, technology commercialization, and the promotion of new projects. B2B negotiations will play a significant role, giving local companies a chance to connect with foreign partners, discuss mutually beneficial proposals, and explore joint initiatives.
Such connections are critically important for strengthening the interaction between science and industry, bringing innovative products to the market, and expanding international business relations.
The program includes an initiative to strengthen the technical base of educational and research institutions. It is planned to donate 50 tractors manufactured in South Korea, which run on compressed natural gas, a cleaner fuel.
The event is also focused on supporting scientists, inventors, researchers, and young innovators. Awards will be presented to winners of the contests '100 Best Regional Innovation Projects' and 'Best University Inventor', as well as intellectual activity contests. Recipients of the 'Leader of Innovative Ideas' badge will also be recognized.
These steps aim to stimulate research, popularize invention, and increase youth interest in scientific and technical creativity. Organizers have also prepared interactive zones for visitors: the venue includes a children's area, a virtual reality space with virtual tours, and zones with innovative entertainment games. Thus, visitors can not only learn about modern technologies but also personally experience their possibilities.
InnoWeek–2026 aims to strengthen ties between science, education, industry, and business. Demonstrating new developments, conducting direct negotiations with potential partners, and discussing commercialization mechanisms are intended to help turn scientific ideas into market-demanded products and technological solutions. For Uzbekistan, close interaction between these sectors is crucial for enhancing the competitiveness of domestic innovations, developing innovation-based entrepreneurship, and attracting international partners to joint projects. The International Innovation Week will run until October 29.
