The presentation of the book "Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Startup Ecosystem," developed through the collaborative efforts of the Center for Analysis of Economic Reforms and Communication, Baku Engineering University (BEU), and the University of Nevada, USA, took place. The book was unveiled to the public in the presence of officials, scholars, students, and experts in the relevant field at BMU.

The event commenced with participants laying flowers at the bust of Great Leader Heydar Aliyev displayed in the university lobby, paying homage to his memory. Following the playing of Azerbaijan's National Anthem, a minute of silence was observed to honor the cherished memory of our martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the territorial integrity of our country.

Professor Yagub Piriyev, Rector of BEU in his opening speech, discussed the startup ecosystem, emphasizing its significance amid increasing global competition and the need to cultivate adaptation skills in the face of rapid changes. He underscored the importance of nurturing intellectuals with a social entrepreneurial culture and promoting startup culture. Recognizing the book's significance in the study and development of this field, Y. Piriyev expressed gratitude to the authors.

Professor Vusal Gasimli, Executive Director of CAERC highlighted the role of startups as catalysts for economic growth and employment in the modern entrepreneurial landscape. He emphasized that the book "Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Startup Ecosystem" serves as a guide to uncover the secrets of startup success, contributing to the development of the local ecosystem.

Subsequent speakers, including Deputy Director of the State Agency for Science and Higher Education Aminagha Sadigov, Deputy Rector of the Azerbaijan State Oil and Industry University Vazeh Askarov, Rector of Sumgayit State University Rufat Azizov, Director of the Agrarian Innovation Center Anar Jafarov, Head of Enterprise Azerbaijan portal Matanat Musayeva, BMU associate professors Elchin Suleymanov and Gunay Imanzade, one of the winners of the "Startup School-1" competition and head of the "Metatask" project, discussed the importance of the presented book and the current state and challenges of the innovation ecosystem.

The event revealed that the book "Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Startup Ecosystem" received approval as a textbook from BMU's Teaching Methodical Council on 01.11.2023.

Developed to support the field's development, the book, comprising 8 chapters, covers the history and current state of innovation, ways to strengthen and commercialize innovation policy, the utilization of network models in project management on digital platforms, and means of evaluating the economic efficiency of innovation activities. The book also delves into the role of startups in economic progress, exploring their potential contributions to technological development. Furthermore, it compares global models related to globalization, economic growth, competitiveness, and the role of innovation and startups, analyzing institutional issues, the current situation, and the prospects of forming the startup ecosystem in Azerbaijan.