Ukrainian Startup Fund and WNISEF launch a $2.5M grant program

Ukrainian Startup Fund and Western NIS Enterprise Fund have announced a fresh grant program to support Ukrainian technology companies with a total budget of $2.5 million. The initiative is being implemented to develop Ukraine’s economic sector.

Ukrainian startups can apply to the grant program lasting until 31 December 2025.

• The program will provide grants of up to $25,000 for 48 projects at the pre-seed stage and up to $50,000 for 26 projects at the seed stage. USF is responsible for managing and implementing this grant program, while WNISEF is acting as a financial partner, contributing to the program’s implementation.

The initiative was developed with a particular focus on early-stage companies. Based on the experience of implementing a similar USF programme launched in 2019, we are convinced that strategic investments in early-stage projects will not only push Ukrainians to create new innovative products and services but will also provide ready-made technology companies with the ability to compete effectively in international markets,

Pavlo Kartashov, Director of Ukrainian Startup Fund, said.

Who can apply:

• Business entities registered in accordance with the procedure established by law and carrying out activities aimed at generating profit and/or achieving social effect.
• No investments, grants or state support exceeding $500,000 in the equivalent for the entire period of activity.
• The total income does not exceed $500,000 in equivalent as of the date of application for the last year of operation.
• The applicant is not actually located and does not carry out activities in the territories of Ukraine temporarily occupied by russia, and is not included in the sanctions list and is not subject to special restrictions (sanctions) in accordance with the laws of Ukraine.

Not eligible for participation:

• Projects that have been funded under the BRAVE1 and Seeds of Bravery grant programs from the European Innovation Council.
• Applicants who manufacture/create equipment, materials, products, goods and/or other military products.