From September 12-14, 2025, the first-ever, unique and large-scale digital conference in the region, Global Tech Wave Central Asia (GTW CA), was organized in Shymkent.

The conference was attended by leading international experts, startups, investors and representatives of large corporations. Among the organizers and partners were such world-renowned companies as YouTube, SIRI, Atari, Ubisoft and Griffin Gaming. In addition, major venture funds such as Y Combinator, 500 Startups, Andreessen Horowitz and European Business Angels Network have also confirmed their participation. This opened up opportunities for Kazakhstani startups, from investments to professional mentoring and strategic development.

GTW CA is part of a series of events that began with LA Tech Week and then took place in Tbilisi, Georgia. Shymkent became the main venue in Central Asia, and the event continued in India and Uruguay.

Over three days, more than 30 events were held at various locations across the city. Their topics covered cutting-edge trends such as Web3, artificial intelligence, fintech, and digital transformation in culture and society. For the first time, the programs included film, gaming, and eSports.

The second day of the conference featured panel sessions with over 120 speakers. Participants held B2B and B2G meetings and presented their companies at an exhibition. In addition, two international startup competitions were held, where promising projects were able to present themselves to a global audience.

Representatives from more than 20 countries participated in the event, which demonstrates the international level of the GTW CA.

"Global Tech Wave Central Asia was not only a platform for technological development, but also an opportunity to showcase to the world Kazakhstan's unique cultural identity and role as a new innovation hub in the region," said Kymbat Nurtayeva, GTW CA project manager.