The second initiative of Tech Ukraine, created under a similar program, and successfully implemented in Amsterdam.
The main objectives of STiR are dual in nature: solving the problems of cities through innovative approaches, as well as the development of the startup ecosystem in Ukraine. STiR is an incubation program for startups who have ideas for solving specific problems of municipalities. STiR selects talented entrepreneurial teams and assists them in the development of innovative products.
STiR aims to make Kyiv, and Ukraine as a whole, the best place for startups in Europe. Its task is to encourage new Ukrainian and international startups to use Ukrainian accelerators and incubators and to settle in Ukraine. The program also promotes partnerships in terms of sharing expertise between public and private sector organizations to stimulate startups and entrepreneurship.
Through this program, we accelerate economic growth, create jobs and develop innovative solutions. STiR allows startups and creative teams to get the first client in the face of the city municipality, and then further scale their project. The city has the opportunity to purchase, or otherwise invest in, an innovative solution to urban problems, developed in close partnership with the startups.
While the growing market for technology products and services in the public sector is a terrific opportunity, it may be difficult for startups to navigate this market. The STiR program is designed to build bridges with these startups, benefiting from innovations in technology and services for the public sector.
The program is aimed at solving urban problems in the following areas:
- Increasing city revenue
- Providing cost savings for the city
- Improving urban mobility
- Improving the quality of life of citizens (health, ecology, etc.)
The pilot project Startup in Residence will work for four months. Startups will be offered an intensive (“accelerated”) training program, as well as support for professional coaches or mentors (entrepreneurs, experts, scholars and local government officials). If the solutions are successful, then the selected cities (two cities in the first program) can invest in them and thereby significantly speed up the career of a startup.
Also, startups will get a seat in a working space and access to the municipality network.