Without New Ideas and Bold Innovative Solutions, It Is Impossible to Reach New Heights: Hayrapetyan

YEREVAN — On February 20, the second international Expo Day was held as part of a program implemented by Armenia’s Ministry of High-Tech Industry in partnership with the American company Plug and Play, marking the conclusion of the 16-week program.

During the event, Minister of High-Tech Industry Mkhitar Hayrapetyan delivered remarks emphasizing the importance of startup development and the integration of Armenian innovation into international markets. The Minister noted that Plug and Play’s presence in Armenia is not merely the activity of an international organization, but the introduction of world-class experience and excellence into Armenia’s startup ecosystem.

According to the Minister, Plug and Play is one of the world’s largest accelerators, and cooperation with the organization holds strategic importance for the Government of Armenia. The partnership was launched not with the aim of short-term results, but with a vision for long-term, sustainable collaboration. The first phase has already been successfully implemented, and there is optimism regarding future cooperation and positive outcomes.

During the event, 19 high-growth startups participating in the program’s second phase presented their innovative solutions across five strategic areas: Enterprise AI, advanced technological infrastructure, health and human impact, sustainability, and digital mobility.

Expo Day brought together representatives of international venture capital funds, leaders in corporate innovation, key ecosystem stakeholders, and government officials, creating an effective environment for networking and collaboration.

As part of the program, the startups also received mentorship from international experts, refined their products, and prepared them for presentation in line with the demands of global markets.

The purpose of the event was not only to showcase the startups’ achievements, but also to highlight the results of the cooperation between Plug and Play and Armenia’s Ministry of High-Tech Industry. This partnership contributes to the development of Armenia’s innovation ecosystem by promoting the participation of Armenian startups in international markets and strengthening Armenia’s position as a regional innovation hub.