In a move to strengthen Ukraine’s innovation ecosystem amid ongoing challenges from Russia’s military aggression, the European Innovation Council (EIC) has announced a new funding opportunity, making €20 million available specifically for Ukrainian deep-tech start-ups and SMEs. This initiative aims to fast-track the development of breakthrough technologies while helping Ukrainian innovators gain stronger footholds in European markets.
This funding builds upon the earlier Seeds of Bravery project, introduced under the EIC Work Programme 2022, which provided financial aid and business support to Ukrainian tech companies following the escalation of the conflict. While Seeds of Bravery offered crucial assistance and helped integrate these companies into the EU innovation landscape, it also highlighted the need for more focused support, especially for high-potential firms ready to expand their operations.
The new program targets cutting-edge deep-tech fields including artificial intelligence, robotics, biotechnology, cybersecurity, and other strategic sectors important to Ukraine’s future. Eligible companies can apply for grants up to €500,000 to advance their technologies from development stages (Technology Readiness Level 4) to near-market readiness (TRL 6–7). Approximately 40 projects are expected to benefit, with a special focus on encouraging women-led enterprises to foster diversity in Ukraine’s technology sector.
This initiative reflects the EU’s broader commitment to promoting innovation-driven recovery and building economic resilience in Ukraine. By supporting pioneering technologies with strong market potential, the program seeks to attract private investment, boost commercialization efforts, and strengthen the integration of Ukrainian start-ups within the European innovation ecosystem, further aligning Ukraine’s economy with the EU.
Applications for this funding opportunity will open on August 12, with a submission deadline of November 26, 2025.
For detailed information on the call, including its conditions and requirements, please visit the dedicated EU Funding & Tenders Portal page.
