The startup ecosystem in Central Eurasia is experiencing a moment of unprecedented growth and recognition. What began as a vision to empower underrepresented founders has culminated in the largest startup pitch competition in the region’s history. This initiative, known as the “Road to Battlefield,” has not only identified promising ventures but also positioned Central Eurasia as a significant player on the global innovation map.
The Road to Battlefield: A Historic Milestone
The “Road to Battlefield” competition, organized by Silkroad Innovation Hub in partnership with TechCrunch and Freedom Holding, represents a historic milestone for Central Eurasia. It marks the first time startups from this region have had a dedicated pathway to one of the tech world’s most prestigious competitions, TechCrunch Startup Battlefield 200.
The Journey to San Francisco
The competition started with 485 applications from 27 countries, including Armenia, Azerbaijan, Estonia, Georgia, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mexico, Moldova, Mongolia, Pakistan, Qatar, Romania, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Tajikistan, Tunisia, Türkiye, Turkmenistan, UAE, the U.K., Ukraine, the U.S., Uzbekistan, and Vietnam. Over the course of several weeks, 380 startups pitched across nine national rounds, delivering an impressive 32 hours of content.
The competition showcased remarkable diversity, with 35% of participating startups founded by women and the youngest entrepreneur being just 14 years old. The startups represented various stages of development, from idea stage to pre-Series A, demonstrating the region’s dynamic tech ecosystem.
The Final Four
After a highly competitive process, four standout startups secured spots at TechCrunch Startup Battlefield 2025 in San Francisco:
- Polygraf AI (Azerbaijan and USA): Offers locally deployed AI solutions that detect AI threats and protect policies against any AI solutions.
- QuickShipper (Georgia): A delivery gateway that enables retailers to offer efficient and delightful deliveries from a single window.
- Surfaice (USA and Kazakhstan): Provides a unified AI-driven operating system featuring an autonomous fleet of agents that integrate workflows for construction projects.
- ArtSkin (Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan): Develops neurointerface technology that transmits the sensation of touch to the human body across multiple fields, including AR/VR, bionic prosthetics, and telerobotics.
These startups will compete against some of the most promising ventures from around the world, showcasing their innovation and potential on a global stage.
The Impact Beyond the Pitch
The “Road to Battlefield” competition has had a transformative impact on the region’s startup ecosystem. It has encouraged cross-border collaboration, attracted international investor interest, and provided a platform for regional talent to showcase their capabilities globally.
Ministerial Support and Vision
The initiative has received strong support from regional governments, reflecting their commitment to fostering innovation and global competitiveness. For example, Jhaslan Madiyev, Minister of Digital Development, Innovation, and Aerospace Industry of Kazakhstan, highlighted the growing maturity and global ambition of the region’s ecosystem. He emphasized the effectiveness of national innovation strategies and the importance of strategic partnerships with global platforms.
The Role of Freedom Holding
The main partner of the competition, Freedom Holding Corp., has played a crucial role in supporting innovation and entrepreneurship in Central Eurasia. As a Nasdaq-listed financial services holding company, Freedom Holding has established itself as one of the most influential financial players in the region. Its support for the “Road to Battlefield” reflects its commitment to empowering founders and connecting them with international markets.
A New Era for Central Eurasia
The success of the “Road to Battlefield” competition marks a new era for Central Eurasia’s startup ecosystem. It has created new pathways for regional startups to access international opportunities and resources, positioning the region as a source of innovative solutions and emerging talent.
As the four winning startups prepare for the main stage at TechCrunch Disrupt, they represent the growing ambitions of Central Eurasia’s entrepreneurial community. This historic milestone underscores the region’s potential to lead on the global stage, driven by innovation, collaboration, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
