On September 10–11, Astana is hosting the first International Summit of Social Entrepreneurs under the theme “Social Investment for a Sustainable Future.” The event brings together around 700 participants from Kazakhstan and abroad, including Germany, Canada, Malaysia, and CIS countries.

The event has brought together social entrepreneurs, investors, representatives of government agencies, international organizations, and development institutions.

A cultural program for international guests is scheduled for September 10. The main business program will take place on September 11 at the K. Kuanyshbayev Kazakh National Music and Drama Theatre.

The business program will begin at 10:00 a.m. Admission is free with prior registration.

The summit will focus on social investment, sustainable business models, and opportunities for international cooperation. Its goal is to strengthen partnerships between government, business, and civil society, expand opportunities for social enterprises, and mobilize resources to address socially significant challenges.

International guests will have an opportunity to learn more about Kazakhstan’s culture and the country’s experience in developing social entrepreneurship. Visits to social enterprises in the capital are also planned, giving participants an opportunity to explore local projects and establish professional connections.

The summit is expected to feature representatives of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the World Bank, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the diplomatic missions of Japan and Canada, the international network Catalyst Now, Senior Expert Service (SES), and other international partners.

A separate panel session will focus on financing social enterprises, strengthening their capacity, and scaling up their activities. Participants will discuss international approaches to supporting social entrepreneurship, grant funding mechanisms, prospects for cross-border cooperation, and opportunities to apply effective international practices in Central Asian countries.

One of the key events of the summit will be the awards ceremony for the winners of the national competition “Best Social Entrepreneur — 2026.” The awards will be presented to the winners by representatives of the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

The business program will also feature:

* Ethnic Heritage Fair — an ethnic fair showcasing products by social entrepreneurs;

* Information Fair — an information exhibition where government development institutions and international organizations will present programs supporting social entrepreneurship;

* “Әлем айнасы” — a photo exhibition highlighting global social challenges and effective approaches to addressing them.

The summit’s long-term goal is to establish a permanent international platform for sharing experience, developing partnerships, and attracting investment in social entrepreneurship. The summit also aims to strengthen Kazakhstan’s role as a regional hub for cooperation in the fields of social innovation and sustainable development.

The summit is organized by the Social Innovation Hub with the support of the Astana city administration, the Association of Social Investors, and the Ministry of National Economy of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/astana-uir/press/news/details/1289389?lang=ru