Uzbekistan has launched SG Women, the country’s first nationwide accelerator for women in tech entrepreneurship, with support from the Ministry of Digital Technologies and Startup Garage.

The programme offers startup training, mentorship and networking to help women founders across the country turn early-stage ideas into viable, investor-ready ventures.

It includes masterclasses and hands-on startup development and culminates in a public pitch event. 

High-performing participants will receive extended mentorship and growth support.

“SG Women is more than a programme – it’s a statement,” said Mukhammad Khalil, founder of Startup Garage. “We’re creating an environment where women from every part of Uzbekistan can develop real businesses, build confidence, and be seen as leaders in innovation. There is enormous untapped potential, and this is just the beginning.”

The initiative began with the Pitch & Rise event, where women entrepreneurs presented their ideas. 

Winners were awarded by Kamola Sobirova, advisor to the Minister on Youth, Women and Freelancers in IT.

“Uzbekistan is changing fast, and women are right at the heart of that change,” Sobirova said. “From startups to digital solutions they’re pushing things forward. Female-centred programmes and events like Pitch & Rise show just how ready they are to take the lead.”

The accelerator aims to extend its reach beyond major urban centres, with tailored support for women in the regions. 

Activities include regional meetups, podcast interviews with successful women entrepreneurs and informal community events to strengthen local ecosystems.

By aligning with Uzbekistan’s broader digital transformation goals, SG Women supports the government’s drive to increase female participation in tech and entrepreneurship—hailed by officials as key pillars of the country’s strategy to diversify and modernise its economy.