17 July 2026
An opening event was held to mark the start of the third wave of training at the “Vistar” Center of Excellence, established through the partnership of the Innovation and Digital Development Agency (IDDA), the Azerbaijan Space Agency (Azercosmos), Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), and the Holon Institute of Technology.
At the event, senior representatives and experts from IDDA, Azercosmos, IAI, and the Holon Institute of Technology delivered speeches. During their remarks, it was noted that the training program will equip participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to develop innovative ideas, create technological solutions, and commercialize them. It was emphasized that building qualified human capital in the fields of innovation and technology, supporting youth entrepreneurship initiatives, and bringing international experience to the country play an important role in the development of Azerbaijan’s innovation ecosystem.
It was also highlighted that, in line with the “Action Plan for 2026–2028 on Accelerating Digital Development in the Republic of Azerbaijan,” consistent steps are being taken toward transitioning to an innovation-driven economy, and that such programs contribute to strengthening Azerbaijan’s technological potential and fostering competitive startups.
In total, 149 individuals applied for the third wave of the “Vistar” Center of Excellence, and 48 of them successfully passed the interview stage and earned the right to participate in the training. The program aims to strengthen human capital in the IT sector, systematically develop early-stage startups, and build knowledge and skills in the commercialization of artificial intelligence and satellite technologies, as well as to develop “soft skills,” which are highly important in the modern business environment.
During the seven-week intensive training, participants will benefit from mentorship and expert support from leading educational institutions in Israel, primarily the Holon Institute of Technology. At the end of the program, startups will be formed from among the participants, and these startups will present their projects at a “Demo Day” event.
It should be noted that the first wave of training at the “Vistar” Center of Excellence was launched in November 2025. The training program consists of two main modules: “Innovation and Entrepreneurship” and “Satellite Innovations and Applications.” To date, a total of 62 participants have graduated from the first two waves of the program.