The Polish-Ukrainian Startup Bridge (PUSB) has started recruitment for the 2nd edition of the project, in which support will be given to the most innovative startups from Ukraine. Projects at an early stage of development can apply, regardless of the industry in which they operate. Recruitment lasts until September 30 of this year and participation in the project, via the website, is free of charge.

The aim of the Polish-Ukrainian Startup Bridge (PUSB) is to identify the best business ideas and then accelerate them during training sessions conducted by experienced experts from Poland. In addition, the project helps young entrepreneurs from across the eastern border to establish direct contact with representatives of Venture Capital funds.

The project conducted by the Cooperation Fund Foundation in cooperation with the Ministry of Funds and Regional Policy is financed by the Polish aid program of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland.

The Polish-Ukrainian Startup Bridge focuses on startups from Ukraine in the early stages of development, located on the so-called pre-seed stage. PUSB experts will select 30 projects from among all candidates to participate in the project. When evaluating applications, they will pay particular attention to ideas with the greatest potential for commercialization and business development.

PUSB participants will receive a comprehensive support package, which includes various meetings and workshops, individual mentoring, and cash prizes totaling PLN 50,000 (approx. Euro 11,000). Participation in the project ends with the annual international Kyiv Tech Hub conference, where 20 best teams will have the opportunity to present their idea to a group of experts and representatives of Venture Capital funds from Poland and abroad. This year, the event is scheduled for the end of November.

At PUSB, we work with the leaders of innovative projects daily. We meet with them during the events we organize, check their needs, and how we can respond to them. That is why our project is still evolving. In the current edition, we plan not only to involve even more mentors. from various industries or fields, but also to conduct a study among Ukrainian startups to support them more effectively.

Krzysztof Grochowski, originator of the Polish-Ukrainian Startup Bridge project

Article offered by Warsaw Business Journal