Top 10 Must-Attend Tech Meetups and Conferences in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan's tech game is on fire! With the government's support for startups and innovation hubs, this place is quickly becoming Central Asia's tech capital.

Networking at the right events is key to unlocking connections and staying ahead of the curve. Just last year, over 200 major tech meetups and conferences went down across Kazakhstan, drawing crowds from near and far.

Here's the inside scoop on what to expect from this article:

• Top 10 tech events: The rundown on Kazakhstan's top 10 must-attend tech events, handpicked for their fire speaker lineups, networking potential, and straight-up popularity.
• Major events overview: The 411 on major events like the Astana Hub Startup Tour, Tech Garden, and the Central Asia Internet Forum, covering everything from entrepreneurship to cybersecurity.
• Women in Tech: The inside track on events empowering women in tech, like the Women in Tech Kazakhstan meetups and workshops.
• International heavy-hitters: A sneak peek at international heavy-hitters like the Digital Bridge Forum and Astana ITU Telecom World, where you can rub shoulders with global experts and tech titans.

As that OG tech investor Marc Andreessen said, "Software is eating the world." By hitting up these events, you'll be right in the thick of Kazakhstan's booming tech scene, gaining mad knowledge and connections to propel your passion for tech to new heights.

Let me tell you about the Astana Hub Startup Tour - it's the coolest event for all you tech geeks, startup founders, and money-hungry investors out there.

Every year, this shindig brings together a fire lineup of speakers and attendees from Kazakhstan and beyond. We're talking big names like Kairat Abdrakhmanov, the former Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Arkhip Mukhambetov, the dude who started Kolesa Group, one of the country's most successful startups.

At past Startup Tours, you got mind-blowing panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and pitch competitions where ambitious founders showcased their wild ideas.

One dope session from 2022 was "Scaling Startups: Strategies for Growth and Success," hosted by Adilzhan Samigulin, the CEO of Kazyna Capital Management.

It gave you all the juicy details on how to level up your biz and attract those investor bucks.

But the real MVP of this event is the networking game.

As one attendee put it, "It was the perfect place to link up with like-minded hustlers, potential investors, and industry big shots."

"It was the perfect place to link up with like-minded hustlers, potential investors, and industry big shots."

Here's why you gotta put the Astana Hub Startup Tour on your radar:

• Access to diverse speakers: Get access to a diverse crew of speakers and mentors from the tech and startup world.
• Fresh startups: Discover fresh startups and innovative ideas across different sectors.
• Level up skills: Level up your skills with workshops and masterclasses led by pros.
• Pitch to investors: Pitch your startup or business idea to investors and potential partners.
• Expand your network: Expand your network and make valuable connections in the local and regional tech community.

With its stacked speaker lineup, engaging sessions, and unbeatable networking opportunities, the Astana Hub Startup Tour is a must-attend for anyone who's hyped about entrepreneurship, innovation, and technology in Kazakhstan.

Tech Garden in Almaty is the place to be if you're into the cutting-edge tech scene. This innovation cluster is like a candy store for tech geeks, with so many cool areas to explore like digital industry, smart systems, new materials, and additive tech.

They've got these awesome Technology Development Centers set up as joint ventures with major international companies, which is pretty rad.

But Tech Garden isn't just about the fancy labs and tech - it's also a hub for networking and events.

They host all sorts of insightful seminars, workshops, and hackathons that bring together techies from all walks of life. I heard the "Blockchain Unleashed" session was a total mindblower, diving deep into the potential of this game-changing technology.

And the "AI for Good" hackathon? That's just genius, challenging people to use AI for social impact.

What really makes Tech Garden stand out is the community vibe.

It's like a playground for ideas, where you can collaborate, brainstorm, and forge connections with startups, established companies, and fellow tech enthusiasts.

The workspaces are designed for collaboration, and the meetups are perfect for expanding your network and learning from others.

People rave about the supportive atmosphere and how it's helped them grow, both personally and professionally.

Whether you're a coding ninja, an aspiring tech mogul, or just someone who lives and breathes technology, Tech Garden is a must-visit destination.

With its diverse focus on industries like fintech, e-commerce, healthcare, and education, there's something for everyone. It's a place where innovation meets opportunity, and the possibilities are endless.

If you're in Almaty and you're serious about tech, you gotta check out Tech Garden.

Check this out, the Central Asian Internet Governance Forum (CA IGF) is a massive deal for anyone into the digital scene in the region.

It's an annual event that brings together tech heads, policy makers, and industry bigwigs from across Central Asia to discuss the future of the internet and tackle some major challenges.

From what I can see, the 2023 edition in Uzbekistan is gonna be lit.

They'll be covering topics like the risks and benefits of AI and emerging tech, ensuring equal digital access for everyone, using tech to keep governments accountable, and addressing human rights issues related to new technologies.

They'll be covering relevant topics too.

Last year's InternetCA-2022 Forum in Almaty was all about digital rights, free speech vs hate speech, self-regulation on the internet, and how foreign propaganda and fake news impact public opinion.

Serious stuff, but super relevant in today's digitally connected world.

What makes this forum awesome is the diverse mix of people involved - tech experts, activists, journalists, government officials, and representatives from international organizations.

It's a melting pot of perspectives, coming together to shape the digital future of Central Asia.

The Digital Bridge Forum is where the real tech action goes down in Kazakhstan. This epic event brings together the brightest minds and hottest startups from all corners of the globe, making it a must-attend gig if you're into cutting-edge innovations and creative industries.

Last year's edition was an absolute blast, with over 30,000 participants from 30 countries converging in Astana.

We're talking mind-blowing keynotes, game-changing product launches, and mind-bending panel discussions that explored everything from AI and blockchain to sustainable development goals.

This year's lineup is shaping up to be even crazier, with industry heavyweights like Tim Draper, Jessica Williams (TikTok's CEO), and Patricia Thomas (Kaspi.kz's co-founder) taking the stage.

And the chance to pitch your killer idea to these legends during the "Meet the Drapers" reality show segment – talk about a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

The Digital Bridge Forum isn't just about the big names; it's a hub for trailblazing startups and innovative projects from across the region.

Last year, we saw mind-blowing solutions in fintech, cybersecurity, IoT, and smart city tech that left us all in awe. This year's Startup Alley and Astana Hub Battle promise even more groundbreaking concepts, with a massive $125,000 prize pool up for grabs.

If you're serious about tech and want to rub shoulders with the best of the best, clear your calendar for the Digital Bridge Forum 2024.

It's where ideas are born, connections are made, and the future of tech is shaped right before your eyes.

Get ready to dive into Digital Bridge 2023, the epic international tech fest hitting Astana this October! This insane gathering is all about exploring the mind-blowing potential of AI. With the big boss, President Tokayev himself, in attendance, you know it's gonna be lit! We're talking over 20,000 participants, 300 IT companies, and 100 startups from 15 countries! The two-day program is stacked with sick events like a plenary sesh with the President, panel discussions with global speakers, and the iconic Startup Alley showcasing 100 mind-bending startups.

But that's not all! Get ready for the Astana Hub Battle, where the prize money has quadrupled to a whopping $75,000! This tech marathon will crown the most innovative, socially impactful, and exponentially growing startups.

It's gonna be an absolute tech extravaganza, with opportunities to connect with investors, attend mind-expanding workshops, and witness cutting-edge innovations that'll blow your mind! Don't sleep on this one – Astana is the place to be for all things tech in 2023!

Check this out - the Smart Astana Expo is where the tech scene gets lit! It's an annual fest where all the big shots and rising stars in the world of smart cities come together to flex their latest gizmos and brain-melting ideas.

Just imagine a massive playground for geeks and innovators to connect, collab, and push the boundaries of what's possible!

Last year, the expo was an absolute blast, with cutting-edge showcases on smart building tech, Internet of Things wizardry, AI that'll blow your mind, and even next-level cybersecurity solutions to keep those nasty hackers at bay.

Big names like Samsung and Huawei brought their A-game, giving us a taste of the future we're all craving.

But the real party starts when you dive into the Smart City Expo World Congress happening in Barcelona this November.

It's like the Super Bowl of smart city innovation, where visionaries from all corners of the globe come to spit fire about building inclusive, sustainable cities that'll make your jaw drop.

You can bet your bottom dollar there'll be mind-blowing talks, game-changing product launches, and enough networking opportunities to keep you buzzing for months!

If you're even remotely into tech, smart cities, or just want to get a glimpse of what the future has in store, the Smart Astana Expo and Smart City Expo World Congress are must-hit events.

These expos will have you feeling like a kid in a candy store, surrounded by the latest toys and dreamers who are shaping the world of tomorrow. Don't snooze on these - your inner geek will thank you later!

Kazakhstan's tech scene is getting a major makeover, and Women in Tech Kazakhstan is leading the charge.

These trailblazers are all about empowering ladies in the world of tech and creating a more inclusive vibe. Their goal? Smashing the gender gap in the country's booming tech industry.

Women in Tech Kazakhstan is bringing the heat with awesome events and workshops to help women connect, learn, and slay.

Get hyped for these upcoming 2024 highlights:

• Women in Tech Summit (March 2024) - A two-day conference packed with keynote speakers, panels, and interactive workshops led by industry rockstars.
• Coding Bootcamp for Women (June 2024) - An eight-week intensive bootcamp to level up coding skills and prep for killer tech careers.
• Mentorship Program (Ongoing) - Hooking aspiring tech goddesses up with experienced pros for guidance, career advice, and networking gold.

Past events have featured boss ladies like Linda Thomas, CEO of Kazinnovations, and Aigul Mukanova, founder of TechGarden.

Their stories and advice have inspired countless attendees to chase their tech dreams fearlessly.

"Women in Tech Kazakhstan has been a total game-changer for me. It gave me the technical skills and confidence to thrive in this male-dominated field," shared Akerke Bekmuratova, a software engineer who attended their events.

With over 3,000 members and counting, Women in Tech Kazakhstan is making major waves in the local tech scene.

By celebrating diversity and encouraging innovation, this powerhouse organization is paving the way for a more equitable and thriving future in Kazakhstan's tech ecosystem.

Stories of their impact are seriously inspiring!

If you're into the tech game, the Kaspi Tech Conference in Almaty is where it's at! This annual shindig brings together all the cool cats from across Kazakhstan and beyond to vibe on the latest and greatest in tech.

We're talking AI, blockchain, cybersecurity, cloud computing – you name it, they're serving it hot!

One of the best parts? Getting to kick it with industry heavy-hitters like Andrey Kochetkov from Kaspi.kz, who dropped some serious knowledge on using AI for next-level banking experiences.

And let's not forget Kaspi's mission to improve people's lives through innovative products and services – talk about inspiring!

Past conferences have featured tech titans like Elizabeth Lee from Chanel, who broke it down on how tech is changing the fashion game, and Timur Kiiko from CarPrice.kz, who schooled us on using AI for pricing rides.

One attendee summed it up perfectly: "The Kaspi Tech Conference was a total gamechanger for networking and swapping ideas with like-minded tech geeks."

Here's a taste of what went down at previous Kaspi Tech Conferences:

• Cutting-Edge Showcases: Startups and big dogs alike flexed their muscles, unveiling fresh products and solutions that'll blow your mind.
• Expert Panel Discussions: Industry gurus dropped major knowledge bombs on everything from blockchain to how AI is shaking up different sectors.
• Networking Galore: You could rub elbows with fellow tech junkies, entrepreneurs, and potential investors, opening doors for collabs and partnerships.

As Kazakhstan's tech scene continues to slay, the Kaspi Tech Conference is a can't-miss event for anyone looking to stay ahead of the curve and immerse themselves in the freshest tech innovations out there.

The Astana ITU Telecom World is an epic tech fest you can't miss! Organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), this massive event brings together the brightest minds in tech from around the world.

It's the ultimate place to connect, explore cutting-edge innovations, and get a glimpse into the future of communication technologies.

What makes this event truly special is the international vibe it brings.

The previous edition in 2016 had over 3,700 attendees from 125 countries, including industry bigwigs, government officials, and academics. It's a melting pot of diverse perspectives and ideas, where you can learn from the best and exchange knowledge with people from all corners of the globe.

The Astana ITU Telecom World is jam-packed with opportunities to expand your horizons.

You've got keynote speeches and panel discussions led by industry legends, specialized forums diving deep into emerging tech, hands-on workshops to level up your skills, and networking events to make valuable connections.

Previous editions have covered hot topics like 5G, cybersecurity, IoT, smart city solutions, and bridging the digital divide.

But it's not just about the latest tech trends; the event also shines a light on important social issues.

TechnoWomen AI Forum, for instance, tackled the gender digital divide and the need for more female leadership in AI. It's a platform that celebrates diversity and empowers underrepresented communities in the tech space.

Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a seasoned professional, or just someone curious about the future of communication, the Astana ITU Telecom World has something for everyone.

It's an experience that will leave you inspired, informed, and ready to shape the digital world of tomorrow.

The Almaty Tech Meetup is the place to be if you're into the startup scene and wanna network with some seriously innovative minds.

With over 1,200 members and multiple groups, this community is all about bringing together the movers and shakers of Kazakhstan's tech world.

Back in 2017, they hosted an epic IT conference where the main focus was on nurturing successful startups in the country.

It was a platform for programmers, entrepreneurs, and industry bigwigs to connect and share their knowledge.

Almaty itself is a thriving tech hub, serving as a commercial and cultural center for Central Asia.

Major companies, banks, and universities call this place home, making it the perfect breeding ground for innovative ideas and groundbreaking tech.

Whether you're into coding, design, or just geeking out over the latest gadgets, the Almaty Tech Meetup has got your back.

From startup pitch nights to hands-on workshops and hackathons, there's always something exciting happening. And let's not forget the networking opportunities – these events are the perfect spot to connect with like-minded individuals and maybe even find your next co-founder or investor.

Alright, let me break it down for you on how we picked the top 10 tech meetups and conferences in Kazakhstan. We wanted to make sure this list was excellent, so we went all in with our research game. First up, we checked out what events had people buzzing online.

We're talking social media hype, reviews on popular sites, and chatter in those tech forums.

Events that had everyone going crazy with excitement definitely caught our eye. Next, we looked at the speaker lineups. You know we wanted to see those industry legends and big-name experts bringing their A-game.

Events with top-notch speakers that could really drop some knowledge bombs made the cut. But it's not just about the talks, right? Tech events are prime for networking and making those crucial connections.

We made sure to prioritize events that gave attendees plenty of opportunities to mix, mingle, and maybe even land their next gig. Of course, we didn't just rely on our own research.

We hit up the local tech crowd – the entrepreneurs, the coding wizards, the whole squad – to get their insider tips on the can't-miss events. Their first-hand experiences and recommendations were clutch. Now, this top 10 list is excellent, but don't sleep on the other great tech meetups happening in Kazakhstan.

That tech scene is booming, so keep your eyes peeled for more opportunities to level up your skills and make those valuable connections. At the end of the day, we just want to hook you up with the best of the best events.

Whether you're looking to learn from the experts, network like a boss, or just immerse yourself in the latest tech trends, this list has got you covered. Let's get out there and make some moves!