In an era where global competitiveness hinges increasingly on innovation, countries around the world are racing to cultivate robust startup ecosystems. For emerging economies in particular, startups offer more than just technology—they represent a pathway to diversification, digital resilience, and long-term prosperity. Against this backdrop, Azerbaijan has emerged as a regional standout, with its capital, Baku, being named Startup City of the Year 2025 by the influential StartupBlink Index. This milestone is not only a recognition of Baku’s rapid rise but also a reflection of Azerbaijan’s strategic, whole-of-government push to become a leading hub for entrepreneurship, digital infrastructure, and tech-driven economic growth.

According to the report, Azerbaijan climbed six spots to rank 74th globally, marking the fastest year-on-year improvement among Central Asian nations. The country's 24% ecosystem growth rate surpasses all regional competitors, signaling that its strategy of nurturing tech entrepreneurship and building enabling infrastructure is paying off.

Baku’s ascent is not just a symbolic win—it represents a recalibration of Azerbaijan’s economic model. Long known for its oil and gas wealth, the country is now actively pivoting toward digital innovation and startup-driven growth. In the competitive landscape of Central Asia, Baku has emerged as the best-ranked city in multiple verticals, including E-commerce & Retail, Edtech, and Social &........

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