The Ukrainian Startup Fund (USF), in partnership with Austrian accelerator BeFounder and the Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine, is igniting a new era of innovation with the launch of the BeFounder Ukraine Edition. This groundbreaking initiative acts as a powerful catalyst, propelling Ukrainian entrepreneurs towards growth in the EU market and positioning them for global impact.

Imagine a dynamic platform where ambition meets opportunity. This is precisely what the BeFounder Ukraine Edition offers: a gateway for Ukrainian startups to access the European market, capitalize on its unique advantages, and scale their businesses internationally.
More than just an accelerator, this program is a bridge connecting the vibrant Ukrainian tech scene with the heart of the European Union. By fostering innovation and forging sustainable connections, it paves the way for Ukrainian talent and ideas to shine brightly on the world stage. And the best part? This program is completely free and accessible to Ukrainian startups, demonstrating the unwavering commitment of its partners to nurture innovative entrepreneurs and amplify their success.
Unlocking the European Ecosystem: The BeFounder Ukraine Edition
This comprehensive program, tailored specifically for Ukrainian startups, provides a roadmap to navigate the intricacies of the EU market, particularly the DACH region (Austria, Germany, Switzerland).
Here’s what makes it special:
- DACH Market Access: Gain the essential knowledge and strategies to thrive in the European ecosystem.
- Mentorship: Tap into a network of over 64 experienced mentors from the European startup community, receiving expert guidance to overcome challenges and accelerate growth.
- Comprehensive Program Features: Immerse yourself in workshops, mentoring sessions, networking events, and demo days designed to connect startups with potential investors and partners.
- Exclusive Pitch Opportunities: Selected startups will have the chance to pitch their innovative solutions to a global audience of investors, industry leaders, and decision-makers at BeFounder Day, a highlight of the ViennaUP Festival.
- Exclusive Support Package: Benefit from specialized resources and tailored support packages designed to fuel growth within the European Union.
Kyiv-Vienna Innovation Bridge: Showcasing Ukrainian Ingenuity
The most innovative Ukrainian startups participating in the BeFounder Ukraine Edition will have an exclusive opportunity to showcase their groundbreaking projects at BeFounder Day within ViennaUP. This high-profile event provides a platform to present ideas to a distinguished international audience, gain visibility among industry leaders, attract potential investors, and forge invaluable business connections.
Voices of Support
Ministry of Digital Transformation: “Expanding access to new international markets for Ukrainian startups is a key priority. Initiatives like BeFounder Ukraine Edition perfectly align with this goal, providing Ukrainian entrepreneurs with invaluable opportunities to enter the European market and scale their businesses globally. This program is a testament to the global competitiveness of Ukraine’s startup ecosystem and its vital role in the European technology landscape.”
Ukrainian Startup Fund: “The launch of BeFounder Ukraine Edition marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to support Ukrainian startups on their journey to global expansion. This program provides invaluable resources, mentorship, and access to the European market, equipping Ukrainian entrepreneurs with the necessary tools to scale and succeed internationally. We are ensuring that Ukrainian startups not only survive but thrive on the global stage, fostering long-term innovation and economic growth for Ukraine.”
BeFounder: “BeFounder Ukraine Edition is a bold and innovative initiative empowering Ukrainian entrepreneurs and strengthening innovation within the European Union. This program provides unique opportunities for internationalization and investment, turning Ukrainian startups into key global players. We are proud to have built a bridge between Ukraine and the European Union that allows Ukrainian talents and innovators to shine globally and become transformational leaders in the innovation ecosystem. This initiative will not only create a bright future for Ukrainian innovators but also, by strengthening innovation in the European Union’s startup ecosystem, particularly in the field of artificial intelligence, pave the way for solving global challenges and creating sustainable impacts.”
Eligibility Criteria
The program welcomes:
- Startups with at least one Ukrainian co-founder.
- Pre-seed stage startups with a strong business idea and a growth-ready team.
- Seed-stage startups and beyond, with market traction (MVP) and scaling potential.
- English-speaking founders (at least one co-founder must be proficient in English).
A Transformational Opportunity Awaits
The BeFounder Ukraine Edition program, valued at €5,000, is completely free for Ukrainian startups. It’s a springboard for innovators, enabling them to scale their businesses internationally and contribute to the global tech ecosystem.
About the Organizers
- Ukrainian Startup Fund (USF): Established by the Government of Ukraine, USF is a cornerstone of the country’s startup ecosystem, supporting innovation and promoting Ukrainian tech solutions globally.
- BeFounder: An Austrian accelerator operating within the European Union, empowering international entrepreneurs to grow and succeed in the European market, particularly in the DACH region. BeFounder equips startups with world-class mentorship, access to a broad network of global investors, and essential resources.
Ready to Take Flight?
Ukrainian startups ready to scale their businesses in the European market are encouraged to apply at: https://befounder.eu/ukraine-edition/
Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to bring your vision to the world stage!




