“GITA Continues to Ensure Startups Have a Full Cycle – From Education to Investment” – Avtandil Kasradze
To strengthen the startup ecosystem and support the rapid scaling of companies, 500 Global has launched the 10th cohort of its 500 Global in Eurasia acceleration program in Georgia. The program has been implemented for six years in partnership with the Innovation and Technology Agency of the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia (GITA) and the Bank of Georgia.
Within the program, selected startups will undergo an intensive 12-week acceleration process, during which they will work with internationally experienced mentors. Participants will gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in refining their ideas, as well as in marketing, product design, sales, and other key areas essential for growth. In addition, they will gain access to new networks, supporting the rapid development and scaling of their startups.
As Chairman of GITA, Avtandil Kasradze, noted at the event, it is highly important and encouraging that, in partnership with 500 Global in Eurasia, the regional acceleration program is being held in Georgia for the tenth time.
“It is especially significant that within this initiative, the first venture fund was established, bringing not only knowledge and mentorship to the ecosystem but also real investment capital. The Innovation and Technology Agency continues to work to ensure that startups have a full cycle — from education to investment — which is critically important for positioning Georgia as a regional innovation hub,” said Avtandil Kasradze.
For reference, 500 Global in Eurasia has been implemented in Georgia since 2020 by 500 Global in collaboration with the Bank of Georgia and the Innovation and Technology Agency (GITA). In 2022, the organizations signed a four-year cooperation agreement, under which the intensive training program is held twice a year in Georgia.
Startups from Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia are eligible to participate, offering them the opportunity to gain knowledge from industry experts and scale rapidly in the market. To date, more than 100 startups from 15 countries have participated in the initiative.
