Kazakhstan is entering a new stage of its digital era. In 2026, the well-known international platform Digital Almaty will transform into the national Digital Qazaqstan forum. This is not just a rebranding - it is a strategic shift toward building a unified national platform focused on digital and AI transformation of the economy and strengthening the technological role of the regions, DKNews.kz reports.
One of the key highlights of the forum is Digital Qazaqstan Awards 2026. Applications for the country’s leading technology prize are now officially open.
More Than Just an Award
Digital Qazaqstan Awards is designed to recognize real, measurable impact in digital and technological transformation. This is not about concepts or pilot projects. It is about solutions that are already delivering tangible results.
Today, artificial intelligence is reshaping everything from public administration to heavy industry. The award is searching for teams and projects that have successfully turned innovation into practical change.
In 2026, the prize will be presented in five categories:
- Best Industrial AI Project - an artificial intelligence-based solution that has delivered measurable improvements in efficiency, safety, and sustainability of industrial processes.
- Best AI Government Services - an AI-driven solution that enhances accessibility, quality, and transparency of public services for citizens and businesses.
- Regional AI Transformation - an AI project implemented at the regional or city level that has introduced systemic changes in governance, infrastructure, and interagency digital processes.
- AI for Social Impact - an AI initiative focused on addressing specific social challenges and demonstrating measurable positive impact on quality of life.
- Best AI Startup - an artificial intelligence startup that has demonstrated technological maturity, practical application, and strong market potential.
Together, these categories reflect the full spectrum of Kazakhstan’s emerging digital economy - from factory floors to local administrations, from social innovation to globally ambitious startups.
How the Selection Process Works
Project evaluation consists of four stages:
- Open application submission.
- Completion of extended questionnaires.
- Analytical assessment using AI tools.
- Final decision by the jury panel.
This multi-layered process ensures that projects are assessed not only for vision, but for measurable outcomes, scalability, and long-term sustainability.
Winners will be announced and awarded on the main stage of the forum. Beyond recognition, this offers visibility before investors, international partners, and leading players in the technology market.
Applications are open until February 24.
A National Platform for Digital Growth
The new Digital Qazaqstan format reflects Kazakhstan’s strategic commitment to building a sustainable digital economy, integrating artificial intelligence into key sectors, and strengthening the role of regions in technological development.
The forum will rotate across different cities in Kazakhstan, reinforcing the idea that digital transformation is not limited to major metropolitan hubs. It is a nationwide agenda.
Digital solutions and AI technologies will be positioned as practical tools for real sectors of the economy, public administration, and social development.
Industry 5.0: Technology Empowering People
The main theme of Digital Qazaqstan 2026 is Industry 5.0.
The Industry 5.0 concept is built on harmonious collaboration between humans and technology. Artificial intelligence, data, and robotics are viewed not only as productivity tools, but as instruments for sustainable development and human empowerment.
In this new phase, technology does not replace people - it enhances them.
Why This Moment Matters
For Kazakhstan, digital transformation is no longer a trend - it is an economic imperative. Those who adapt quickly gain a competitive edge. Those who integrate technology into the real economy define the future.
Digital Qazaqstan Awards 2026 could become a turning point for the country’s next generation of technology leaders.
For some, it will mean professional recognition.
For others, access to investment.
For many, the first step toward entering the global market.
And for Kazakhstan, it is a concrete mechanism for accelerating technological progress.
The question is simple: will your project be among those shaping the country’s digital future?
