Kyrgyzstan to host Central Asia startup forum with $300 million investor pool

CASC forum connects regional startups with global venture capital, and opens path to $1 million world competition.

BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan (MNTV)  — The Central Asia Startup CUP (CASC) forum is set to take place in Bishkek, bringing together leading venture funds and angel investor networks managing a combined capital of approximately $300 million, the Aga Khan Foundation announced.

The two-day event aims to serve as a springboard for Central Asia’s emerging startup ecosystem, creating a rare opportunity for regional entrepreneurs to connect with global investors, build strategic partnerships, and attract critical early-stage funding.

CASC will feature a packed program of pitch sessions, panel discussions, and master classes, enabling startups to showcase their innovations and receive direct feedback from international investors. Confirmed participants include more than 15 prominent venture capital firms and angel clubs such as Sturgeon Capital, Pegasus Tech Ventures, Domino Ventures, White Hill Capital, Big Sky Capital VC, BGlobal Ventures, MA7 Ventures, and Silk Road Angels Club.

Organizers say the forum’s ultimate goal is to open doors for local projects to expand internationally. One major opportunity includes the chance for participating teams to advance to the global Startup World Cup, which offers a prize of $1 million.

In addition to global exposure, select startups will also be eligible for direct investments of up to $10,000, providing crucial seed capital to scale their operations.

With rising interest in Central Asia as a new frontier for tech innovation, the CASC forum positions Bishkek as a growing hub for regional entrepreneurship and international investment.