Central Asian Startup Ecosystem: Weekly Insights & News, August 11–16

For investors, founders, and anyone interested in the Central Asian startup scene — here is a quick look at the top news from this week. We have gathered the key updates, from new launches to funding deals and industry moves across the region.

Kazakhstan is introducing AI education in schools. The initiative, launched in partnership with MIT, will cover all grades from 1 through 12.

High-speed Starlink internet is now available in Kazakhstan, providing reliable connectivity even in the country’s most remote areas and giving people access to modern digital services.

Astana is set to launch a major “Smart City” project in December 2025. The program will integrate digital and innovative technologies into the city’s management.

A new bank with Chinese investment is coming to Kyrgyzstan. Its registration marks the first step toward establishing a fully functional financial institution in the country.

In Almaty, a press conference officially unveiled the Female Pro League, FPL, the first women’s esports league in Kazakhstan and Central Asia.

Kazakhstan’s EA Group fund has completed its first European deal, putting €150 000 into the UK-Spanish AI startup Sax AI, which specializes in automating client onboarding for investment banks.