Berlin and Kyiv are forging stronger economic ties through the “Ecosystem Connectors” project, a dynamic initiative designed to foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and resource exchange between entrepreneurs and stakeholders in these two vibrant tech hubs. Funded by the Berlin Senate Department for Economic Affairs, Energy and Public Enterprises and the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), and implemented by GIZ in cooperation with enpact, this project aims to accelerate the integration of Ukrainian entrepreneurs into the European market.
The second edition of Ecosystem Connectors focuses on creating tangible opportunities for Ukrainian startups and business support organizations (BSOs). The project’s core components are designed to provide practical support and access to international growth:
- Knowledge Exchange in Berlin:
- A launch event in Berlin on December 2, 2024, successfully brought together founders, ecosystem enablers, and state actors to explore collaboration potential. A recap reel of the event is available for viewing.
- The “Ecosystem Connectors Magazine: Berlin Kyiv Edition” will offer a comprehensive overview of Ukraine’s entrepreneurial landscape, including key statistics, figures, case studies, and insights from local stakeholders.
- Workshop Series and Exchange Trip:
- In May 2025, up to 10 selected participants will embark on an all-expenses-paid delegation trip to Berlin. This trip will include two in-person workshops on pitching and investor readiness, site visits to key Berlin ecosystem players, and networking opportunities. Participants will also gain visibility at GITEX, Berlin’s cross-industry tech summit and expo.
- An additional 25 participants will join a series of five online webinars focused on EU market access, covering crucial topics like customer discovery, marketing strategies, and EU law and taxes.
- Monthly online meetings will be held, to increase networking between Berlin and Ukraine.
The project is currently accepting applications from startup founders and representatives of BSOs based in Ukraine. This is a unique opportunity to:
- Gain firsthand experience with the Berlin startup ecosystem.
- Kickstart collaborations with Berlin-based startups and organizations.
- Participate in GITEX, Berlin’s tech expo.
- Network with founders and stakeholders from Berlin, Ukraine, Albania, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Key Dates:
- February to March 2025: Call for Applications.
- March/April 2025: Kyiv Ecosystem Brochure released.
- March to April 2025: Selection of delegation trip participants & program preparation.
- May 19-23, 2025: Delegation trip to Berlin.
- June to October 2025: EU market access webinar series.
- Application Deadline: March 9th.
- Selection communication: beginning of April.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old, reside in Ukraine, and demonstrate sufficient English language skills. Startups must be legally registered in Ukraine, active in Kyiv, and have significant growth potential. BSOs must support startups in Kyiv and be able to foster partnerships with Berlin-based organizations.
The selection process includes an evaluation of applications, document submissions, and online interviews. Selection criteria emphasize growth potential, motivation, program benefits, and business profitability. Bonus criteria include displacement due to the ongoing conflict, promotion of diversity, and positive social, environmental, or economic impact.
Interested individuals can find the application form on the Ecosystem Connectors website: https://bit.ly/ECBKDelegation0525.
This initiative represents a significant opportunity for Ukrainian entrepreneurs to expand their horizons and integrate into the European market. Share this opportunity with your network and help build stronger connections between Berlin and Kyiv.
For more information, please contact Salma Nassar, Senior Communications Manager, at sn@enpact.org.
