Four startups—Polygraf AI, QuickShipper, Surfaice, and ArtSkin—were selected to represent Central Eurasia at TechCrunch Startup Battlefield 2025 in San Francisco, showcasing innovations in AI security, logistics, construction software, and neurointerface technology.

Participants view the event as a platform for global recognition, investment, and growth, emphasizing the importance of developing local tech talent and integrating into the international tech ecosystem.

Additional finalists included Arlan Biotech, Investbanq, Athena AI, MiraiTech, HaWoO2, and Biometric Vision, judged by a panel of 40 experts from 10 countries, including an innovative AI judge.

Between July 21 and August 12, over 380 startups participated across nine online national rounds, showcasing regional diversity with participants including a 14-year-old founder and 35% women-led startups.

Central Eurasia's startup ecosystem reached a historic milestone with the largest startup pitch competition in the region's history, called 'Road to Battlefield,' which attracted over 485 applications from 27 countries.

The competition was organized by Silkroad Innovation Hub in partnership with TechCrunch and Freedom Holding, aiming to elevate Central Eurasia on the global startup map and attract international investors.

It also highlighted the region's growing entrepreneurial maturity, with initiatives like Kazakhstan’s Astana Hub and Azerbaijan’s IDDA supporting local startups.

The event's success was supported by regional and international partners, including Nasdaq-listed Freedom Holding Corp., which supports regional innovation and has a valuation of around $10 billion.

The competition has positively impacted the regional startup ecosystem by attracting international investors, fostering cross-border collaboration, and positioning Central Eurasia as an emerging innovation hub.

Supported by regional partners such as Astana Hub, IDDA, and IT Park Uzbekistan, the initiative has introduced a new generation of founders to Silicon Valley and elevated the region’s profile globally.

The selected startups specialize in AI threat detection, delivery ecosystems, construction management, and neurointerface technology, demonstrating regional innovation in diverse sectors.