Applications have opened for alem.ai battle, a national artificial intelligence competition launched as part of Kazakhstan’s Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence, QazMonitor learned from AI and Digital Ministry. The initiative aims to support and develop AI talent across the country.
The final stage of the competition will be held at the alem.ai International Center for Artificial Intelligence in Astana.
Applications are open until February 22, 2026.
The competition brings together school students, university students, startups, and researchers, supporting the development of AI projects from early prototypes to market-ready solutions.
alem.ai battle is held in four categories:
AI Young Talents – school students aged 12–18 with working MVPs
AI Driving Power – college and university students with working MVPs
AI Future Builders – teams with traction, including paid pilots or sales
AI Innovators – teams developing AI-based research and R&D projects
The prize fund totals 25 million tenge. Twenty teams will advance to the final, with four winners selected – one in each category.
The competition is organized by Astana Hub with the support of the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation and Aerospace Industry, and is part of the long-term alem.ai human capital development strategy.
Applications can be submitted via astanahub.com.
