The Ukrainian Startup Fund has opened applications for the Startup EDGE grant programme. The initiative supports early-stage Ukrainian startups that aim to develop innovative products and scale internationally. At the same time, the programme seeks to strengthen the competitiveness of the Ukrainian startup ecosystem in Europe and globally.
The programme focuses on providing non-repayable grants to startups at the pre-seed and seed stages. In addition, it combines financial support with expert evaluation and a transparent selection process.
Programme overview
Programme: Startup EDGE
Managing organisation: Ukrainian Startup Fund
Total budget: €1,000,000
Target stage: Pre-seed and seed startups
Priority focus areas
The programme supports startups working in high-impact and innovation-driven sectors. In particular, it focuses on the following areas.
- Deep Tech: artificial intelligence, biotechnology, medical and space technologies, robotics, quantum computing, cybersecurity, electronics, 5G and Web 3.0;
- GreenTech: sustainable development, renewable energy, clean technologies, resource efficiency and environmental impact reduction;
- EdTech: digital education solutions and technologies that transform learning and improve access to knowledge.
Grant size and support
Startup EDGE provides non-repayable grants tailored to the development stage of each startup. Therefore, funding levels differ by stage.
Pre-seed stage: up to €20,000;
Seed stage: up to €40,000.
During the first open call, independent experts will select nine projects. All applications will undergo a competitive and transparent evaluation process.
Application process
Startups must submit their applications online through the official Ukrainian Startup Fund platform. After submission, experts assess projects based on innovation potential, scalability and market relevance.
The programme is implemented by the Ukrainian Startup Fund with the support of the EU4Innovation East project. The initiative is funded by the European Union, co-funded by the Government of France and implemented by Expertise France.
Important date
Application deadline: 21 January 2026
More information
Official details and application instructions are available on the Ukrainian Startup Fund website: https://usf.com.ua/programs/grant-support.
More grant opportunities for startups, innovators and entrepreneurs are available in the grants section of the GetGrant service.