On 19 September 2026, Ashgabat will host the regional round of the Startup World Cup 2026 international competition. Start-ups will present their projects to a panel of experts and compete for a place in the global final in San Francisco, according to the Orient news agency.

Start-ups from various sectors are invited to take part, regardless of their stage of development. Participants must complete an application form, prepare a pitch deck and present their project to the jury.

The winner of the regional round will earn the right to represent Turkmenistan at the Startup World Cup global final, which will take place on 4–6 November 2026 in San Francisco. The top prize at the global final is US$1 million.

Participation in the regional round is free of charge, but places are limited.