Kazakhstan is expanding its AI startup ecosystem.
A new cohort of AI’preneurs aims to help founders turn ideas into investment-ready companies, DKNews.kz reports.
Astana Hub has announced the start of applications for the sixth cohort of AI’preneurs, its accelerator program for artificial intelligence startups. In 2026, the program will be held at the International AI Center Alem.ai.
AI’preneurs is designed for professionals who want to launch their own AI startup and guide it from an initial idea to first customers and investment. The accelerator brings together developers, engineers, AI specialists, product managers, entrepreneurs, and startup founders from Kazakhstan and other countries.
Who can apply
Applications are open to individual participants, including:
- Developers
- Engineers
- AI specialists
- Product managers
- Entrepreneurs
- Other professionals interested in creating technology products
Teams are formed during the program rather than before it.
Admission is competitive, with applicants evaluated on their expertise, professional experience, strategic thinking, motivation, and ability to work in teams while developing technology-based products.
Two-stage accelerator
The AI’preneurs program consists of two stages.
The first stage, Founder Lab, lasts four weeks and is intended for individual participants. During this phase, they form teams, strengthen entrepreneurial skills, and refine their product ideas.
The second stage, Core Accelerator, runs for ten weeks. Participants validate business hypotheses, build a minimum viable product (MVP), attract their first customers, and prepare their startups for scaling.
The program concludes with Demo Day, where teams present their projects to investors, venture capital funds, and corporate partners.
Support for founders
Participants receive access to Astana Hub's startup ecosystem and development resources, including:
- Astana Hub infrastructure
- AlemPlus technology platform
- Mentorship from industry experts
- Educational workshops
- Individual startup tracking and support
Accommodation is also provided during the Core Accelerator stage for participants traveling from other cities.
The program additionally offers opportunities to secure early-stage investment and expand into international markets through Astana Hub's global partner network.
Growing track record
Since its launch, AI’preneurs has attracted more than 960 applications.
The first three cohorts graduated 79 participants, who went on to launch 35 startups and raise more than $400,000 in investment.
One of the program's success stories is STIKER.AI, an AI-powered platform that automates workflows for tax consultants and independent professionals. The service manages document collection, reminders, and payment processing through WhatsApp. Developed during the accelerator, the startup later launched commercial sales and expanded into the U.S. market.
Another graduate, re, secured $150,000 in investment after completing the program.
In 2025, startups created by AI’preneurs participants generated 153 million KZT in sales and pre-sales, while two teams received soft investment commitments totaling $75,000 from Astana Hub Ventures.
Why it matters
Kazakhstan has identified artificial intelligence as one of its strategic priorities for economic diversification and technological growth. Programs such as AI’preneurs help transform technical expertise into globally competitive startups by connecting founders with mentors, investors, and international markets, strengthening the country's position as an emerging AI innovation hub.
Applications for the sixth cohort are open until August 17, 2026. Applications can be submitted via the official program page.
