The Ukrainian tech ecosystem is receiving a significant boost thanks to “Seeds of Bravery,” a €20 million initiative funded by the European Union under the European Innovation Council (EIC). In its first year, the project has already made a substantial impact, distributing over €3.6 million in grants to Ukrainian tech startups, fostering innovation, and strengthening ties with the European market.
What is Seeds of Bravery?
Seeds of Bravery (UASEEDs) is designed to support Ukrainian tech startups and integrate them more closely into the European innovation landscape. Powered by a network of 17 partners and 2 associated partners, the initiative offers a range of financial and non-financial support programs, aiming to propel Ukrainian deep tech innovations onto the global stage.
Over €3.6 Million Invested, 139 Grants Awarded
Since its launch in December 2023, Seeds of Bravery has reviewed over 980 proposals, resulting in 139 grants awarded to over 110 companies. This substantial investment underscores the project’s commitment to nurturing Ukrainian talent. While the initiative has attracted applications from across Europe, including Poland, the UK, Germany, and Spain, the majority of recipients are Ukrainian-based, reflecting the project’s core mission.
The focus has been primarily on deep tech, infrastructure, education and science, healthcare/life sciences, and agri-food technologies. Notably, 14 startups have secured the maximum funding amount of €60,000, including companies like Haiqu, Beholder, S.Lab, OptySun, V-Art, Anima, CareTech Human, PLATMA, Hydratico, GIOS, Cardio.AI, Nasnaga, and Metaenga.
Beyond Funding: A Robust Support Ecosystem
Seeds of Bravery goes beyond financial assistance, offering 17 non-financial support activities, including:
- Deep Tech Incubation and Acceleration: Partnering with global entities like Aalto University and Vacuum Deep Tech Accelerator, the project has helped 7 startups complete incubation, with 10 currently engaged, and 19 complete the accelerator program, with graduates like Beholder expanding sales in Central Asia and Africa, and Djooky and Nasnaga growing their presence in EU markets. PLATMA even secured a $2M investment.
- Digital and Deep Tech Booster: Implemented by Innov8, this program has seen 14 startups complete the program and 9 currently participating, all progressing toward fundraising readiness.
- Summer School on Entrepreneurship: Aalto University hosted 46 participants for a two-week program focused on sustainability, media strategy, and VC models.
- UA Tech Tickets: Over 220 free tickets were provided for Ukrainian companies to attend major tech exhibitions across Europe, including Latitude59, LTW, Tech Chill, Web Summit, and Viva Tech. In addition, 16 coworking spaces provided free access, boosting the presence of Ukrainian innovators in European tech ecosystems.
- Market Discovery and Soft-Landing Workshops: These workshops provided insights into 19 countries and various industries, attracting hundreds of participants.
- Funding and Investor Literacy Programs: These initiatives have supported startups in securing funding and educated aspiring business angels. One startup from the Funding Lab program secured a $100,000 investment.
- Female Entrepreneurship Leadership Program: This program has launched two cohorts, each supporting 16 Ukrainian female founders and executives, emphasizing the crucial role of women in driving innovation and economic recovery.
- Demo Days: Seven Demo Days, hosted by Plug and Play, showcased 13 startups each to nearly 300 attendees, fostering connections between Ukrainian startups and European investors.
- Proposal Writing Bootcamp: The inaugural program helped 15 startups apply for EIC Accelerator, Women TechEU, Pathfinder, and Transition programs.
Success Stories
The impact of Seeds of Bravery is already evident in the achievements of its beneficiaries. Notably, Ukrainian startup Beholder won the grand prize at Latitude59 and attracted €600,000 in investment, with access to an additional €1.5 million. CheckEye became the first Ukrainian company to win the EIT Health InnoStars Awards 2024.
Looking Ahead
The Seeds of Bravery initiative is set to continue its momentum into 2025 and beyond. With plans for new cohorts, workshops, and programs, the project remains committed to empowering Ukrainian tech startups and solidifying Ukraine’s position in the global innovation arena.
Source: Seeds Of Bravery
