On April 15, 2026, the Department of Economics and Business of the International Engineering and Technology University held the annual republican interuniversity student project competition “Business Sharks – 2026” among students of higher education institutions of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

The event was conducted in a hybrid format — offline at the International Engineering and Technology University and online via ZOOM, bringing together participants from various regions of the country.

Welcoming the participants, Head of the Department of Economics and Business, Zhuldyz Tursynovna Dildebayeva, emphasized the importance of developing entrepreneurial thinking, innovative approaches, and project-based activities among students. In her speech, she noted that the “Business Sharks” competition serves as an effective platform for identifying promising business ideas, supporting youth initiatives, and strengthening interuniversity cooperation.

Competition Commission:

• Timur Bakhitovich Khasenov — Chairman of the Commission
• Aigul Nurpeisovna Toksanova — Doctor of Economic Sciences, Professor
• Kuralai Kadirkulovna Berdimuratova — Master of Economic Sciences, Lecturer

In 2026, the competition brought together 24 teams from 8 universities across Kazakhstan, with a total of 59 participants.

Participants presented their business projects in multimedia presentation format, demonstrating a high level of preparation, creativity, innovation, and practical relevance of their ideas. Projects were evaluated based on originality, relevance, business plan quality, financial and economic justification, marketing strategy, and presentation skills.

Competition Results:

1st Degree Diploma

• Team “Nomad Network”, project “Alma Connect” — AL-Farabi Kazakh National University

2nd Degree Diploma

• Team “Business Shark Board Game” — METU
• Team “Alpha Team”, project “EconEnglish KazNU” — AL-Farabi Kazakh National University

3rd Degree Diploma

• Team “Innovative System” — Turan University
• Team “FinSolo”, project “EdmapKZ” — METU
• Team “Zerde”, project “Mystery Trip” — METU

All participants received certificates of participation, while the winners were awarded diplomas and commemorative prizes.

The Department of Economics and Business expresses gratitude to all participants, academic supervisors, and members of the competition commission for their active participation, high level of preparation, and contribution to the development of entrepreneurial culture among youth.

The “Business Sharks – 2026” competition once again confirmed its significance as an effective platform for supporting student initiatives, generating innovative ideas, and shaping future business leaders.