€40K Grants For Ukrainian Startups
Startup EDGE funds Ukrainian-registered startups in deep tech, green tech, and ed tech. €20K for pre-seed, €40K for seed stage. Four competitive cohorts through 2027.
What Is Startup EDGE?
Startup EDGE is a targeted programme for early-stage Ukrainian startups in deep tech, green tech, and ed tech. While the grant amounts are small (€20-40K), the programme serves as a de-risking signal for European VCs evaluating Ukrainian startups for larger investment rounds.
Eligible Sectors
- AI / Machine Learning
- Biotech / Medtech
- Robotics / IoT
- Cybersecurity
- Renewable energy / Cleantech
- EdTech
- Space tech / Electronics
Is This For You?
You Qualify If
- Your startup is a Ukrainian LLC or Sole Proprietorship (FOP)
- Established after January 2020
- Active business operations and job creation within Ukraine
- You have NOT received investments/grants exceeding $500K
- Your product is in deep tech, green tech, or ed tech
Not For You If
- Your company is not registered in Ukraine
- You produce military or dual-use goods
- You've received over $500K in prior funding
- Your company was established before 2020
Frequently Asked
Can EU companies with Ukrainian co-founders apply?
No — the company must be a Ukrainian-registered entity (LLC or FOP). EU startups operating in Ukraine are not eligible unless they have a Ukrainian legal entity.
How many cohorts are planned?
Four competitive cohorts through 2027. Cohort 1 closed January 2026 (9 projects from ~200 applications). Cohort 2 closed March 2026. Cohorts 3-4 expected later in 2026 and 2027.
Who funds this?
EU (via EU4Innovation East) and the Government of France. Implemented by Expertise France and the Ukrainian Startup Fund (USF). Note: this is not a USAID programme.
How does the selection work?
Application → compliance verification → expert evaluation → pitch presentation to Selection Committee → Supervisory Board approval. ~2.5 months from application to pitch.
Is this a repayable grant?
No — 100% non-repayable grant. No co-financing requirement.
Check Your Eligibility
Tell us about your Ukrainian startup and we'll assess your Startup EDGE eligibility.
Ukrainian
Deep Tech Startup?
Up to €40K, non-repayable. Cohorts 3-4 coming soon.