Solana Company to support Kazakhstan’s $6B Alatau City project

Nasdaq-listed Solana Company signed a memorandum of understanding to advise on and help build blockchain and crypto infrastructure for Alatau City, Kazakhstan’s planned $6 billion digital-first megacity. The agreement was signed during an Alatau City roadshow in Shenzhen and Hong Kong in June, where organizers reported 30 cooperation agreements with combined investment potential above $6 billion.

Under the MoU, Solana Company and the Alatau City Authority will cooperate on four areas: digital asset treasury, blockchain infrastructure, measures to accelerate institutional adoption, and platform development. Alisher Abdykadyrov, CEO of the Alatau City Authority, noted that the memorandum includes Solana Company’s participation in the Alatau Crypto Cluster, a planned pilot zone and special economic area where crypto would be permitted for everyday transactions.

Joseph Chee, chair and CEO of Solana Company, said the firm aims to expand the Solana ecosystem in the region and added, “We look forward to deepening this partnership and expanding the Solana ecosystem’s footprint across the region.”

Alatau City was presented internationally by Kazakhstan’s president in May 2024 and remains at an early planning and development stage. Planners describe a smart city built from the start with artificial intelligence, digital identity and blockchain technology. Arman Tastanbekov, deputy CEO of the Alatau City Authority, stated at the Solana Summit Kazakhstan 2026 that the city will integrate AI, digital identity and blockchain across its systems.

The project’s concept includes low-altitude aircraft, robotaxis, autonomous delivery drones and hydrogen-powered energy systems. Last year Kazakhstan launched a Solana Economic Zone in Astana in partnership with the Solana Foundation, and the Kazakhstan Stock Exchange recently listed a Solana exchange-traded fund. The Solana Foundation also signed a separate memorandum with Alatau City during the China roadshow.

Regulatory and infrastructure questions remain. Kazakhstan’s National Bank and Financial Monitoring Agency have raised concerns about constitutional and regulatory changes that could be needed to support a crypto-based economy. Local reports indicate residents of the area designated for the city currently face shortages of gas, water, electricity and internet access.

The Alatau Crypto Cluster is presented by officials as a pilot area to test everyday crypto use and related regulations. Solana Company’s role under the MoU will focus on technical advice and platform work, while local authorities continue planning regulatory and physical infrastructure steps for the broader project.