A Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation has been signed between the Innovation and Digital Development Agency (IDIA) and the Polygraf AI startup.
The main goal of the cooperation is to strengthen the innovation and digital development ecosystem of Azerbaijan, promote the safe and responsible application of artificial intelligence technologies, develop local talents, and support the formation of technology companies with the potential to compete in global markets.
The cooperation will be implemented in accordance with the goals and priorities of the Artificial Intelligence Strategy of the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2025–2028, as well as the Action Plan for Accelerating Digital Development in the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2026–2028.
The memorandum envisages the establishment of a regional Center of Excellence in Baku to serve the Central Asian and Middle Eastern regions. The center is planned to act as a regional platform for engineering, product development and the application of technological solutions, and then form a local team specialized in the fields of technology, engineering and cybersecurity.
The long-term partnership includes supporting Azerbaijan's digital transformation agenda, exploring the possibilities of applying Polygraf AI's technology and experience to strengthen the national innovation ecosystem, as well as strengthening Azerbaijan's position as a regional hub for responsible artificial intelligence.
The cooperation will pay special attention to the development of local human capital in the fields of artificial intelligence, machine learning, data privacy, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence management. In this direction, it is planned to implement training programs, workshops, master classes, mentoring and internship programs, as well as knowledge and experience exchange initiatives, in cooperation with technoparks, higher education institutions and the Azerbaijan Innovation Center.
It should be noted that Polygraf AI is an international startup operating in the field of artificial intelligence security, founded by Azerbaijani entrepreneur Yagub Rahimov. The company develops technologies that enable government agencies and businesses to safely use artificial intelligence, protect confidential information, prevent cyber threats, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
Currently, Polygraf AI solutions are implemented in the state, financial, and corporate sectors in various countries around the world. The company cooperates with international technology partners and organizations, including Fortune 500 corporations. Its technological solutions have been recognized by leading international analytical companies such as Gartner, IDC, Omdia, and Frost & Sullivan.
In recent years, the startup has won a number of prestigious international competitions, attracted millions of dollars in investment, and is considered one of the most promising companies in the field of artificial intelligence security.
The Memorandum of Understanding between IRIA and Polygraf AI also includes supporting the development of the startup and technology ecosystem in Azerbaijan, expanding cooperation with technopark residents, startups, and innovators, and forming a local community around entrepreneurship in the field of applied artificial intelligence and deep technologies.
The parties will explore opportunities for joint activities in artificial intelligence, artificial intelligence security and governance, data privacy, detection of fake and synthetic content, as well as other new technologies. This activity includes the implementation of pilot projects, proof-of-concept projects and applied research in line with the needs of the public and private sectors of Azerbaijan.
Another direction of cooperation is to strengthen ties between the country's innovation ecosystem and the world's leading innovation centers by using the experience and international connections of the Azerbaijani technology diaspora. In this context, it is envisaged to create new opportunities for mentoring, attracting investments, and transferring advanced knowledge and experience to Azerbaijan.
According to the memorandum, cooperation will also be carried out in the direction of promoting and commercializing digital products and services developed or coordinated by IRIA in international markets. It is planned to facilitate market access of Azerbaijani digital solutions in countries where "Polygraf AI" and IRIA have strategic cooperative relations, especially in African markets.
In this direction, coordination of activities within the ecosystem, establishment of relations with government agencies and private sector representatives, organization of B2B and B2G meetings, trade and investment promotion events, as well as expansion of the global reach of Azerbaijani digital products are being promoted.
The implementation of other initiatives serving the needs of the region will be considered.
It should be noted that the signed Memorandum of Understanding will contribute to strengthening local potential in the field of artificial intelligence and deep technologies in Azerbaijan, expanding international cooperation, and strengthening the country's position as a regional innovation center.
