QIC participated in the Central Eurasian Venture Forum 2026

Central Eurasian Venture Forum 2026 (CEVF) is a leading regional forum that brings together investors, entrepreneurs, and representatives of financial institutions to discuss the transformation of the investment paradigm, the development of the venture market, and AI-driven companies in the context of the new global reality.

The forum’s key theme is Smart Capital: resilient and verifiable capital focused on the practical application of artificial intelligence technologies and capable of operating effectively amid intensifying competition, regulatory constraints, and geopolitical turbulence.

On behalf of Qazaqstan Investment Corporation, Gabbas Yerzhanov, Deputy Chairman of the Management Board for Investment Activities, delivered a speech at the forum.

During the speech, key approaches to the development of the region’s investment ecosystem were outlined. In particular, it was noted that QIC acts as an institutional anchor investor, facilitating the attraction of international capital and contributing to the formation of sustainable investment platforms. To date, QIC participates in six venture capital funds, building a diversified investment portfolio focused on technology and digital projects.

It was also emphasized that venture funds with QIC participation have already invested more than USD 6 million in 40 Kazakhstani IT startups, contributing to the development of the national innovation ecosystem and the scaling of technological solutions. QIC’s total commitments across these funds amount to USD 163 million, a significant portion of which is directed toward projects in Kazakhstan and Central Asia.

Particular attention was given to QIC’s participation in international investment platforms, including Sturgeon Emerging Opportunities II LP, Alem Ventures Fund LP, Quest Ventures Asia Fund II, and other funds focused on supporting technology companies and developing the regional venture market.

It was noted that Central Asia is gradually transitioning from fragmented markets toward a unified investment space. At the same time, systemic constraints remain, including regulatory differences, currency risks, restrictions on cross-border capital movement, and underdeveloped exit infrastructure (M&A and IPO).

Priority areas include strengthening the institutional environment, enhancing investor protection, developing professional fund management teams, and integrating the region into global capital markets, including expanding participation in international funds and supporting cross-border transactions.

Today, Central Asia is regarded as a promising investment region with strong growth potential, undergoing active transformation and shaping a new capital architecture, while attracting increasing interest from global investors and fostering technological entrepreneurship.