In Armenia, the drive for a tech revolution starts from an early age. A nine-year-old inventor, Slavik, at a state school in Yerevan showcases his latest creation – a box with LED lights. Under the guidance of a 21-year-old tech coach, Maria, students like Slavik and his peers are immersed in a hands-on learning environment that equips them with skills in programming, robotics, and app development. This initiative is a part of Armath, a program that has proliferated across 650 labs in Armenian schools since its inception in 2014, aiming to cultivate the next generation of engineers.
Sarkis Karapetyan, CEO of the Union of Advanced Technology Enterprises (UATE), emphasizes that their vision is for Armenia to establish itself as a powerhouse in the tech industry, leveraging the legacy of its historical prowess in mathematics and computing. The partnership model defined by UATE, combining private investment with government support, has enabled the establishment of these labs, fostering a community of over 17,000 active students.
Despite being a landlocked country of 2.7 million with limited natural resources, Armenia is becoming an attractive destination for tech startups. Established companies like Picsart, now valued at $1.5 billion, demonstrate the potential of Armenian innovations in the global market. Moreover, an annual report indicates that Armenia ranks as the best place in the Caucasus to launch a company, bolstered by favorable conditions compared to Georgia and Azerbaijan.
The Australian diaspora plays a pivotal role in forging connections within the tech landscape, especially with approximately 75% of Armenians residing abroad. Organizations like SmartGate aid local startups in networking within the US’s tech landscape, enabling smoother transitions for entrepreneurs looking to expand their operations internationally.
A significant boost to Armenia's tech scene came following the upheavals in Russia due to the Ukraine crisis, as numerous Russian IT professionals relocated to Armenia, bringing essential skills that are filling gaps in technology sectors. Nvidia's decision to move its Russian office to Armenia highlights the country’s growing reputation as a tech-friendly locale. However, there remain concerns about high operational costs and tax burdens that threaten to deter long-term investments.
Despite these challenges, optimism grows as startups like Dr Yan revolutionize healthcare access, demonstrating robust growth domestically and plans for international expansion. Industry leaders predict a bright future for Armenia's tech sector, with global visibility and investments affirming its position on the international stage.
