The Ukrainian Startup Fund is launching a new Startup EDGE grant program with the support of EU4Innovation East, a regional project funded by the European Union, co-financed by the French government, and implemented by Expertise France.
The Ukrainian Startup Fund is launching a new Startup EDGE grant program with the support of EU4Innovation East, a regional project funded by the European Union, co-financed by the French government, and implemented by Expertise France.
The goal of the Startup EDGE program is to support the development of innovative startups at early stages and strengthen the competitiveness of the Ukrainian startup ecosystem in Europe and the world.
The Startup EDGE program will focus on:
DeepTech: artificial intelligence and machine learning, biotechnology and life sciences, medical technology, robotics, advanced materials and manufacturing, quantum computing, Internet of Things, cybersecurity, space technology, electronics, photonics, 5G, Web 3.0 and other breakthrough technologies.
GreenTech: sustainable development, renewable energy, clean technologies, solutions for saving resources and reducing negative environmental impact.
EdTech: digital educational solutions and technologies to transform learning and increase the accessibility of knowledge.
The program offers substantial financial support to startups through non-repayable grants designed to accelerate early-stage innovation. At the pre-seed stage, eligible startups can receive up to €20,000, while those at the seed stage can receive grants of up to €40,000.
«At EU4Innovation East, we see Startup EDGE as more than just a grant program — it is a strategic investment in Ukraine’s human capital, technological sovereignty, and regional leadership. By supporting bold ideas in DeepTech, GreenTech, and EdTech, we aim to accelerate scalable solutions that address today’s challenges and drive future growth. Thanks to our partnership with the Ukrainian Startup Fund, we are confident that this vision will be realized,» said Julien Schmitt, Project Director of EU4Innovation East.
The total budget allocated to this grant program is €1,000,000, underscoring a strong commitment to promoting entrepreneurial growth and technological progress.
Each application will undergo a transparent multi-stage evaluation process, including internal compliance checks, expert evaluation, submission of the application to the competition committee, and final approval by the Foundation’s Supervisory Board.
During the first open call, experts will select 9 projects.
Application deadline: January 21, 2026
The application process will take place through the Ukrainian Startup Fund web portal. Details at the link.
