Minister of Digital Technologies Sherzod Shermatov held a meeting with Pedro Santos Vieira, Managing Partner at 500 Global.

During the discussion, the parties addressed further developing Uzbekistan's startup ecosystem, increasing the volume of venture capital investment, bringing local startups to international markets, and coordinating existing initiatives within the sector.

Representatives of 500 Global shared their experience in the Uzbek market, noting that the company has been investing in the country's technology companies and startups since 2021–2022, including a number of companies founded by Uzbek entrepreneurs, as well as startups established by foreign founders operating in Uzbekistan.

500 Global expressed interest in implementing programs in Uzbekistan aimed at preparing startups for international investment markets and expanding local companies' connections with foreign investors.

Company representatives stated that, within the framework of their long-term strategy for Central Asia, they plan to engage in several stages of startup development.

The meeting also addressed creating favorable conditions for venture fund operations, simplifying the movement of investment capital, and organizing the activities of international funds in Uzbekistan more effectively.

The meeting concluded with an agreement to continue cooperation on the systematic development of Uzbekistan's startup ecosystem, creating a more favorable environment for venture capital investment, and bringing local technology companies to international markets.