The European Innovation Council (EIC) announced that it will provide €20M in funding for deeptech startups and SMEs in Ukraine.
The funding is part of a broader effort to support Ukraine’s innovation sector during the ongoing conflict with Russia. The goal is to promote the development of new technologies and strengthen connections between Ukrainian innovators and European markets.
Applications open on 12th August and close on 26th November 2025.
Brief about the new initiative
The EIC is launching new funding to support Ukrainian tech companies, building on the earlier Seeds of Bravery project started after Russia’s full-scale invasion. That project provided financial and business support and helped firms connect with EU innovation networks.
The new funding will support deeptech startups working in areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics, biotechnology, and cybersecurity.
Grants of up to €500K will be available for about 40 selected companies to help advance their technologies from Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4 toward market entry (TRL 6–7).
Applicants must demonstrate that their technology has been validated in a lab environment, that they hold the necessary intellectual property rights, and that they have a clear path to market within two to three years, including measurable milestones.
This initiative also aims to attract private investment, improve commercialisation pathways, and strengthen the integration of Ukrainian innovators into the broader European innovation ecosystem. Companies currently located in EU Member States or Horizon Europe Associated Countries are expected to show intent to return operations to Ukraine when feasible.
There will be a focus on supporting women-led companies to promote broader participation in Ukraine’s tech sector.
Boosting market readiness and investment opportunities
The initiative aims to help Ukrainian tech startups and SMEs attract private investment, bring innovations to market, and scale their operations. Only civilian-focused projects are eligible.
Grants may be used for:
Preparing for commercialisation (e.g., market research, business planning, IP protection, regulatory needs).Advancing technologies from early development (Technology Readiness Level 4) to demonstration stage (Technology Readiness Level 6–7).
By the end of the project, recipients should:
Validate their technology in relevant settings.Be ready to seek further funding, apply for the EIC Accelerator, or enter market partnerships.Gain greater visibility and access to funding and markets.
Additionally, selected applicants will receive free access to EIC Business Acceleration Services and become eligible for a fast-track pathway to the EIC Accelerator, which offers larger funding opportunities.
