The prize pool is $100,000. Startups from around the world can now apply for Astana Hub Battle 2026, an international startup competition taking place in Astana, Kazakhstan, as part of AI & Digital Bridge 2026, DKNews.kz reports.
Technology teams will have the opportunity to pitch their projects to investors and compete for $25,000 in each of four categories. Applications are open until September 6, 2026, through the official AI & Digital Bridge website.
Four Winners Will Receive $25,000 Each
The Astana Hub Battle prize pool will be divided across four categories:
- Impact Maker — $25,000
- Growth Engine — $25,000
- Market Shaper — $25,000
- Investor’s Choice — $25,000
Startups will be assessed not only on the technology behind their products, but also on their growth potential, market impact and investment appeal.
The four-category format gives different types of companies a chance to stand out — from projects generating measurable impact to startups demonstrating rapid growth or strong investor interest.
Full participation details are available on the Astana Hub Battle platform.
An MVP Is Enough, but Startups Must Prove Market Demand
Astana Hub Battle is not aimed at projects that exist only at the idea stage.
Applicants must have a technology product at MVP stage or above. They must also demonstrate validated demand or have already attracted investment.
The company must be legally registered, and the founder must be 18 or older.
This means teams need to show more than an interesting concept. They must demonstrate that their idea has already been turned into a working product and has generated some evidence of market interest.
International startups that meet these requirements can submit an application through the official AI & Digital Bridge website.
50 Teams Will Reach the Semifinal, 14 the Final
The selection process will take place in several stages.
Applications will be accepted until September 6. Projects will be reviewed through September 21, and the results will be announced on September 23.
The 50 selected teams will compete in the semifinal on October 2.
Only 14 startups will advance to the final on October 3.
Both stages will take place during the open days of AI & Digital Bridge 2026 in Astana, Kazakhstan.
Startups Will Pitch in Front of Investors
The value of Astana Hub Battle goes beyond the cash prize.
AI & Digital Bridge has a dedicated programme focused on startups, entrepreneurship and venture capital — from building an initial product and reaching Product-Market Fit to fundraising and entering global markets.
The October 2 programme will include Startup Battle, Demo Day, VC sessions, pitch sessions, networking and meetings between startups and investors.
The track is designed for startups at different stages of development, venture capital investors, accelerators and BigTech scouting teams.
For founders, a few minutes on stage can therefore mean more than competing for $25,000. It is also an opportunity to put their product directly in front of investors, technology leaders and members of the international startup ecosystem.
More information about the programme and registration is available through AI & Digital Bridge 2026.
Kazakhstan Opens the Competition to Global Teams
Astana Hub Battle has an international format and is open to startups from outside Kazakhstan.
For foreign founders, the competition offers a direct opportunity to present a product in Kazakhstan and connect with investors, accelerators and technology companies interested in the wider Central Asian market.
The event also places Astana at the centre of a regional startup conversation, bringing together founders and investors from different markets on one platform.
Applications Close on September 6
Startups interested in Astana Hub Battle 2026 have until September 6, 2026 to apply.
The 50 shortlisted teams will compete in the semifinal on October 2, while 14 projects will advance to the final on October 3.
Applications can be submitted via the official Astana Hub Battle website.
Four winners will receive $25,000 each, bringing the total prize pool to $100,000.
Previously, we covered startup competitions and technology projects within Digital Bridge. This year, Astana Hub Battle is open to qualifying international teams, with applications accepted until September 6.
