The top three winners receive equity-free funding from the Supernova prize pool. Exact prize distribution (if applicable) is communicated by the organisers. The total prize pool on the page is USD 30,000.

What is the submission deadline?

The submission deadline is 15 March 2026 at 23:59 (Kazakhstan time). Late submissions or incomplete submissions are not considered.

If I was selected previously but couldn’t attend, do I get a spot?

No. Each year runs a new selection process; missed spots go to the next runner-up. Apply again for the current edition.

GITEX Central Asia & Caucasus 2026

Central Asia's Largest
Startup Pitch
Competition

Q: What happens if I win?

Winners are contacted within one week after the event to confirm prize arrangements and next steps. This typically includes verification, announcement coordination, and payout process guidance.

Q: Are there categories this year for this Supernova Challenge?

No. There are no sector categories; startups are scored and shortlisted across multiple metrics. The committee may still balance representation across sectors when building the shortlist.

Q: What is the format for pitching?

Pitch format is 2 minutes pitching + 3 minutes Q&A, and only one person can pitch on stage.

Q: How many startups will pitch?

50 startups pitch in the semi-finals (Day 1), and 10 finalists pitch in the finals (Day 2). Final pitching order and stage schedule are shared closer to show dates.

An influential platform that connects the region’s most visionary AI start-ups with global investors, venture capitalists, and technology leaders. Hosted at GITEX AI KAZAKHSTAN, the Supernova Challenge spotlight's transformative solutions in smart cities, healthcare, fintech and advanced technologies. Startup's have the opportunity to pitch live and gain global exposure.

Apply Now Meet the Judges

2026 SUPERNOVA WINNERS

Startup Journey

Book a Stand

Now Live

Apply to Compete

Registrations Open

Application Deadline

1 May 2027

Finalist Announced

15 May 2027

Finals & Awards Ceremony

8 June 2027

Supernova challenge

How to participate in 2027

To take part in the Supernova Challenge pitch competition, you must be an exhibiting startup at GITEX AI Kazakhstan. Once registered as an exhibitor, you’ll be eligible to apply for the challenge. After submitting your application, you’ll receive updates via email regarding your selection, based on the timelines.

300+

Investors

86

Countries

Pitch On Main Stage

Book Your Startup Pod

Exhibit at Gitex AI Kazakhstan

Become Eligible For Supernova

Submit your application and get shortlisted

Pitch & Win

Pitch on the main stage and compete for the USD prize pool

Apply Now

Limited Startup pods available for 2027

Open to exhibiting startups only
Automatic eligibility after booking your exhibition space
Get the chance to pitch to global VCs, angels and corporate leaders
Compete for cash prizes and regional recognition
Fast-track into the GITEX global ecosystem

Previous Supernova Judging Panel

Abbas Kazmi

Co-founder & Managing Partner

Sabah Fund

Dalerkhon Nodirov

CEO

IT Park Ventures

Marat Tolybai

Founder and CEO

ActivatVC

Robin Butler

Partner

Sturgeon Capital

Alibek Sultangazin

Deputy CEO - Chief Investment Officer (VC)

BGlobal Ventures

Tughra Musayeva

Head of Innovation

PASHA Financial Holding

Shokhrukh Yulchiev

Managing Partner

Silkbridge Capital

Jaeyeong Park

Co Founder

The Garrison

Why Apply?

INVESTOR ACCESS

Pitch to global VCs, angels and corporate investors.

INTERNATIONAL EXPOSURE

Showcase your startup on a regional and global stage.

PITCH ON THE MAIN STAGE

Present your vision to thousands of industry leaders.

FAST-TRACK TO GLOBAL NETWORK

Unlock opportunities across the GITEX Global ecosystem.

As a founder pitching my FinTech startup quite frequently, I loved every minute of Supernova - even those intriguing and nervous seconds before winners were announced. Great judges, great organizing team, brilliant teams on one stage - and LOTS of feedback and follow-ups after we took our 2nd place. Many thanks

Victor Kirnarskiy

Founder, GetMobi, Uzbekistan - 2nd Place GITEX CAC 2026

2026 Participants

Forging the future of innovation by empowering the founders building Central Asia's intelligence economy.

FAQ

How can I apply?

To apply, you must be an exhibiting startup at GITEX AI Kazakhstan 2026 and submit your application via the Exhibitor Portal (E-Zone). Upload your pitch deck, a 60-second elevator pitch video, and the application form in the portal. Applications are only valid when all required materials are submitted

What happens if I win?

Winners are contacted within one week after the event for the next steps.

Are there categories this year for this Supernova Challenge?

No - there are no sector categories; startups are scored and shortlisted across multiple metrics.

What is the format for pitching?

Pitch format is 2 minutes pitching + 2 minutes Q&A, and only one person can pitch on stage.

What if I’m not shortlisted for the semi-finals?

You can still engage with investors and the wider audience, and a waitlist is maintained for last-minute changes. If a shortlisted startup drops out, waitlisted startups may be contacted.

How many startups will pitch?

Top 10 startups will be shortlisted to pitch on Day 2 of the event.

What should my pitch deck include?

Include: problem, solution, business model, market, traction, and team. Use simple language, show evidence of traction (users, pilots, revenue, LOIs), and explain why now. Keep it structured for fast investor scanning. Here is a good reference for you: How to structure your pitch deck

What should my pitch video include?

Submit a clear 60-second video in English showing your upper body, shared via a YouTube or Vimeo URL. Explain your purpose, the problem, and why it matters - no jargon. Videos longer than 60seconds are not considered.

Reference video: The 1 minute Pitch - Keep it Simple

What are the judging criteria?

Judging criteria: Market Opportunity, Business Model, and Team execution capability. Clarify scalability, pricing, target customers, and why your team can win in this market. Use clear numbers and credible proof points where possible.

Will I receive detailed feedback about my application?

No - individual feedback is not provided due to volume, but every submission is reviewed by the judging panel. Focus on clarity and completeness to maximise scoring.