The Digital Kyzylorda initiative reached a new milestone this week as 15 entrepreneurs and local municipality representatives from Kyzylorda traveled to Astana for an experience exchange workshop focused on digital transformation, startup support, and the evolving role of AI. Hosted at Maqsut Narikbayev University, the program combined expert lectures, business pitching sessions, and networking with leading Astana-based SMEs, while connecting participants to broader discussions on human development and technology at the Digital Bridge 2025 International Tech Forum.
The workshop opened with remarks from the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Kazakhstan, the Small Enterprise and Market Service (SEMAS) under Korea’s Ministry of SMEs and Startups, UNDP Seoul Policy Centre, UNDP Kazakhstan, and Maqsut Narikbayev University. Ambassador Cho Tae-ick of Korea highlighted the importance of SMEs and human resource development in driving economic growth and praised Digital Kyzylorda for addressing the digital needs of regional entrepreneurs.
Katarzyna Wawiernia, UNDP Resident Representative in Kazakhstan, emphasized that Digital Kyzylorda goes beyond technology: “It’s a gateway for entrepreneurs to harness their potential and influence the future of their communities. Sustainable development starts at the local level, and we are proud to support Kyzylorda’s growth.”
Over two days, participants explored a range of support tools and case studies. The National Chamber of Entrepreneurs “Atameken” presented non-financial support measures for SMEs, while the Damu Entrepreneurship Development Fund outlined grants, lending, and guarantees under the Business Roadmap 2025. QazInnovations showcased innovation grants and startup infrastructure, and social entrepreneurship experts shared strategies for turning community projects into sustainable businesses.
Workshops on incubation and acceleration hosted by Nazarbayev University’s Business Incubator offered insights into scaling early-stage startups. Participants praised the sessions for providing practical knowledge and inspiration, with many highlighting the value of learning from Korean experts despite language barriers.
At the heart of the exchange was Won-Sang Cha, Head of the Digital Strategy Unit at SEMAS, who shared Korea’s experience in building a digital economy and empowering SMEs. His keynote focused on the role of AI, machine learning, and digital tools in boosting small business efficiency and competitiveness, emphasizing the importance of government support and inclusive digital ecosystems.
The Astana program also included guest lectures at local universities, meetings with national policy bodies, and participation in the Digital Bridge Forum, coinciding with the launch of UNDP’s 2025 Human Development Report, A Matter of Choice: People and Possibilities in the Age of AI.
The Astana Experience Exchange marks the final phase of Digital Kyzylorda, which began in April 2025 with workshops for 162 entrepreneurs across seven districts. Nearly half of the participants were women, reflecting the initiative’s commitment to bridging gender gaps in entrepreneurship. Top performers joined a Skills Lab to become trainers themselves, extending the project’s impact into local communities.
Funded by the Republic of Korea and implemented by the UNDP Seoul Policy Centre under the SDG Partnership on Supporting MSMEs through Inclusive Digital Transformation, the initiative adapts Korean development lessons to Kazakhstan’s context, particularly for youth- and women-led SMEs. By combining technical training, institutional support, and local ownership, Digital Kyzylorda ensures that digital skills and innovation capacities remain sustainable beyond the program.
Hye-Jin Park, Head of Private Sector Engagement and Development at UNDP Seoul Policy Centre, summed up the initiative: “This is not only about building digital skills, but also about building bridges—between Kazakhstan and Korea, between institutions and entrepreneurs, and between local needs and global experiences. These connections will strengthen cooperation and foster a more inclusive and sustainable future.”
