On 14 October 2026, our 3rd-year BA students from the 2024-2028 cohort visited the Creative Industries Park of Kyrgyzstan and ololoPlanet as part of their Social Entrepreneurship course, taught by Ms. Elena Chigibaeva. The visit introduced students to organizations and creative spaces that support entrepreneurs, promote the development of creative industries, and create opportunities for new ideas and initiatives in Kyrgyzstan.
The visit began with a presentation by the Creative Industries Park’s Resident Relations Manager, who introduced students to the Park’s history, mission, and role in developing Kyrgyzstan’s creative economy. Students learned about its unique tax regime, residency criteria, and the benefits available to creative entrepreneurs and businesses. The presentation also highlighted the growing contribution of the creative sector to employment, business development, and the formalization of economic activities. The Park brings together professionals and businesses from various creative fields, including music, film, digital content, production, and other creative industries.
Beyond providing a supportive business environment, it organizes conferences, competitions, and festivals that encourage collaboration and help creative talent grow. Students also learned about the Creative Industries Support Fund, which provides financial support for socially significant projects in areas such as education, inclusion, cultural heritage, and sustainable development. The second part of the visit focused on ololoPlanet, one of the largest creative hubs in Central Asia. Opened in Bishkek in 2023, it covers more than 6,000 square meters and brings together people from diverse professional backgrounds. Its five floors, inspired by the ocean, land, forest, sky, and outer space, each feature a unique design that creates an inspiring environment for creativity and collaboration. During the tour, students discovered how creative spaces can bring people together, encourage the exchange of ideas, and create new opportunities for collaboration.
The visit offered valuable insights into how an inspiring environment and a strong professional community can help people develop their ideas and turn them into real projects.