Launch of the “Innovation Competitiveness Lab for MSMEs”: Accelerating Growth and Investment Readiness

Innovative micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Ukraine will have the opportunity to assess their competitiveness and receive a customized development roadmap free of charge. The “Innovation Competitiveness Lab for MSMEs” is launching a pilot program with 20–25 available spots, with the selection process opening in November 2026.

What Participating Companies Will Receive The program features a structured business diagnostic process where companies complete an online questionnaire, undergo automatic scoring, and have their results verified by an expert. Selected participants will receive:

  • A detailed report highlighting strong points and risk zones.

  • An individualized development roadmap.

  • Depending on specific needs, a financial model, investment profile, pitch deck, or export plan.

  • Mentorship, educational support, and access to partners, investors, and funding programs.

  • Evaluation areas cover investment, financial, export, technological, and cybersecurity readiness.

Who Can Participate The pilot is open to innovative MSMEs from various regions of Ukraine, prioritizing tech startups, green energy solutions, and innovative manufacturing.

  • At least 30% of the spots are reserved for enterprises founded or led by women.

  • Special attention will be given to businesses owned by veterans, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and young entrepreneurs.

The Consortium and Our Role The project is implemented by the “Platform for the Support of Innovative Projects” consortium. This collaborative effort brings together leading associations to provide a comprehensive support ecosystem:

  • Ukrainian Startup Association (UAS) leads the project, providing strategic management, coordination, and the modernization of the digital platform.

  • Scientific Association of Cybersecurity of Ukraine ensures digital security and cyber expertise.

  • ISE Group and Digital Future of Education manage the analytical and educational components.

  • Ukrainian Association of Educational Technologies contributes to the development of educational programs.

  • Tech Ukraine proudly supports this initiative by facilitating the integration of participating innovative companies into the national and international ecosystem, ensuring they have the connections and resources needed to scale globally.

How to Apply Conditions and exact dates for the selection process will be announced soon. To be the first to know about the launch, please leave your contact details here.

This publication was prepared by TechUkraine within the framework of the “Innovation Competitiveness Lab for MSMEs” project, which is supported by UNDP in Ukraine under the “Strengthening Member-Based Business Management Organizations of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in Ukraine” project, implemented in cooperation with the Ministry of Economy and the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources of Ukraine, with the support of Switzerland. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of TechUkraine and does not necessarily reflect the views of UNDP and the donor.

Share

Related news