Accelerate Prosperity (AP), a global initiative of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), convened entrepreneurs and leaders from six countries in Istanbul for a strategic workshop focused on harnessing innovation and expanding its international footprint.
Teams from Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Syria, Afghanistan and Portugal gathered from June 2-5 to shape the organization’s future as a data-driven, climate-conscious platform supporting early-stage businesses and startups across borders.
The four-day working session emphasized innovation through emerging technologies, including the development of an AI-native founder support model. Participants explored how artificial intelligence and data can be reframed as strategic assets to enhance technical assistance and strengthen investment decision-making. Discussions also focused on closing gaps in green and inclusion metrics to better measure climate impact and social inclusion.
“Accelerate Prosperity is positioning itself as a go-to platform for entrepreneurs by integrating cutting-edge tools with creative financial solutions and comprehensive pre- and post-investment support,” organizers said.
The workshop highlighted the organization’s growing international reach, with dedicated sessions on expanding services in Central Asia, Syria and its emerging presence in Portugal and the European Union. Leaders examined pipeline development through platforms such as AP Astana and strategies to build a more resilient financing model for cross-border entrepreneurship ecosystems.
The initiative provides innovative financial solutions and technical assistance to help transform promising ideas into sustainable businesses across Central and South Asia and beyond.
Earlier, the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF), with support from the governments of the UK and Switzerland, launched a new regional initiative to accelerate green and inclusive economic growth across the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.
Attendees included governance members Karim Sumar, Abdul Malik, Ozodkhon Davlatshoev and Blaise Pistoletti. Imran Shams was recognized for his leadership in driving AP’s growth, team strengthening and expanded international impact.
Stay informed with The Gignomist for authoritative coverage of global private capital markets, including the latest deals, fundraising activity, in-depth insights, and data-driven analysis.
