Nestled at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Georgia holds a strategic position as a gateway to major markets in both regions. As part of the Caucasus, it serves as a critical transit hub, particularly for trade and energy, connecting diverse economies with its advantageous location.
Georgia’s business-friendly environment offers a solid foundation for innovation and entrepreneurial growth. Several startup success stories highlight the ecosystem’s potential for high-impact development.
In the Global Innovations Index 2023 report, Georgia climbed to 65th place, reflecting better ecosystem quality, improved access to resources, and a more conducive business environment. Since the Startup Genome’s 2020 evaluation, which classified the country in the “Activation” phase, Georgia has transitioned into a more advanced phase of ecosystem development, moving towards Globalization.
The primary drivers of innovation and startup policy in Georgia have been governmental bodies, academic institutions, and international organizations. The most active sectors for startups in Georgia are e-commerce, fintech, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital platforms.
Georgia’s innovation ecosystem faces significant structural, long-term challenges, requiring urgent systemic reforms. The goal of the EU4Innovation East project in Georgia is to strengthen the competitiveness and maturity of the country’s innovation ecosystem by enhancing stakeholder capacity, launching new programs, and fostering meaningful connections with Europe. In the long term, we aim to create a thriving ecosystem that drives local innovation and positions Georgia as a vital hub within the global innovation landscape.
