In "INNOLAND" Incubation and Acceleration Center the seed round investment made into the "Nextsale" and "Whelp" startups, participants of the winter acceleration program of the SUP "Startap Accelerator.
The investment in these startups was implemented jointly by the "Azfinans" Investment Company, the "Next Step" Innovation Center and Khazar Ventures.
“INNODOST” – Innovation and Startup Program. Organized by the "Volunteer DOST" program and in partnership with the "INNOLAND" Incubation and Acceleration Center, the “INNODOST” 3-module program was successfully completed within the framework of the “Volunteer Clubs” project. Under the presentation of Nijat Amiraslanov, Director of the "INNOLAND" Incubation and Acceleration Center, training sessions were held over 3 days as part of the modules. Participants gained valuable knowledge about the innovation ecosystem, creative thinking, startup development, and entrepreneurship skills.
Final stage of the “45 Minutes Startup” Olympiad held at “INNOLAND”
The final stage of the “45 Minutes Startup” Olympiad, organized jointly by the “INNOLAND” Incubation and Acceleration Center and “Taskool” for 8th–11th grade students, has been successfully held.
The final took place within the framework of the “Startup School” program by “Taskool,” a resident of “INNOLAND.” In 2025, out of 147 applications submitted to the “Startup School” program, 110 participants started the training, and 58 successfully completed it, forming 13 teams across 7 main fields.
The program, aimed at developing entrepreneurship skills and financial literacy at a global level, engaged participants in working on real business ideas and presenting their startup projects. With the support of experienced mentors, the projects covered areas such as Artificial Intelligence, FinTech, GreenTech, HealthTech, AgriTech, Gaming, and E-commerce.
In the final stage, 13 teams captured the jury’s attention with their innovative ideas, creative approaches, and presentation skills. As a result, the startup projects of the “Speacdeaf,” “Tutor AI,” and “Mindmark” teams were highly evaluated and declared winners. All participants who successfully completed the program received certificates.
The “Startup School” program builds a strong foundation for Azerbaijan’s future startup leaders and promotes innovation culture across the country.
Have you heard startups say, “we’re already in the acceleration stage”?
But what does acceleration mean?
Acceleration is the phase where startups that have tested their idea and are ready to grow gain speed.
At this stage, teams:
meet with investors
strengthen market strategies
refine sales and marketing plans
focus on realistic goals with mentor support
In simple terms, acceleration is the moment when a startup is not just starting, but preparing to grow.
What do you think is the most important factor for a startup at this stage — mentorship, market strategy, or investor support?