Some could become “unicorns” - Tokayev on Kazakh startups

Tengrinews.kz - President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, speaking at a meeting on the development of artificial intelligence, emphasized the importance of creating an ecosystem attractive to both investment and talent, citing Akorda.
According to the Head of State, global investments in AI startups totaled almost $100 billion — more than a third of all venture capital investments worldwide. Compared to 2023, funding for AI projects grew by nearly 80 percent.

“Competition for talent and ideas in AI is becoming increasingly fierce. The main flows of investment today come from the U.S., EU countries, and China. But money goes to where there is a developed ecosystem: access to infrastructure, support, regulation, and markets. Money follows the conditions. A month ago, I reviewed the work of several Kazakh AI startups. Some of them have the potential to become unicorns. It is encouraging that we have talented young people who are patriotic, even though some work abroad. The state must support such talent,” Tokayev said.

The President instructed the government to develop a set of measures to support the export of domestic AI startups, including relaunching the “digital ambassadors” program.

“Our task is to create an effective innovation ecosystem for talented youth. We must provide them with every opportunity. We also need to open institutions and research centers that will facilitate the rapid implementation of new initiatives. It is important to strengthen international ties in the field of digital technology. Only then will Kazakhstan be recognized as Eurasia’s digital hub. The development of artificial intelligence is a strategic priority for our country and is directly linked to Kazakhstan’s future. Our country must be advanced and developed. This issue will remain under my personal control. At today’s meeting, we set a number of important tasks. All state bodies and institutions must work together, with the involvement of the private sector, since this is a national goal. The Ministry of Digital Development, as the main coordinating body, must ensure overall interaction. Time is very short; we cannot sit idly by. Key decisions and proposals related to artificial intelligence must be prepared and submitted to me within two months,” the Head of State concluded.