AIN has compiled learning opportunities and grant support for Ukrainian startups in early May 2026.
Up to $20,000 for business development for veterans
Ukrainian venture builder SKELAR has opened the second intake of the Veteran Venture Program accelerator. The educational initiative will be of interest to veterans with IT experience who plan to launch or develop their own IT business.
As part of the program, participants will undergo training, receive mentorship and may raise up to $20,000 in investment.
This year the program's focus is on learning AI tools for prototyping products without involving additional team members, automating customer support and generating marketing texts and creatives — to launch a business faster and cheaper.
Training for the program begins on May 21, and applications can be submitted until May 14 inclusive via the link.
Up to €75,000 for developing components for unmanned systems
EU4UA Defence Tech Brave1 together with BRDO, with the support of the European Union, are launching the second stage of a grant program. Eleven teams will be able to receive up to €75,000 each to develop components for unmanned systems. The target Technology Readiness Level (TRL) is 4–5.
Support will be given to projects developing and researching prototype components, including electric motors, flight controllers, ESC, VTX, cameras, thermal imagers, onboard computers and sensors for UAVs
Projects will be evaluated based on innovativeness, technical level, availability of manufacturing base and team, potential for cooperation with the EU, sustainability, and budget justification.
Details and registration at the link.
Challenger Sustainability Accelerator
Challenger is launching a new three-month equity-free accelerator program for Ukrainian startups working in green tech, energy, mobility, construction, demining and prosthetics.
The program is aimed at early-stage startups looking to improve their product. Participants will work with international mentors, investors and entrepreneurs, and will also gain access to a network of partners and experts from the European startup ecosystem.
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In addition, teams will be able to take part in a learning visit to Sweden to attend Tech Arena – one of Europe's largest technology conferences.
Applications can be submitted until June 21 via the link.
Up to $100,000 for developing science-intensive startups for women
The Cartier Womenās Initiative awards grants of up to $100,000 for the development of innovative projects within the Science Technology Pioneer Award program.
Participants receive not only funding but also access to intensive training, strategic mentorship, and a global network of contacts for scaling their business.
Applicants who can apply include:
- women entrepreneurs who hold leadership positions and own a significant share of equity in the company;
- early-stage businesses operating for between 1 and 5 years at the time of application;
- companies with proven business model viability and generating revenue over the past year;
- projects that contribute to at least one of the UN Sustainable Development Goals;
- applicants who are at least 18 years old at the application deadline.
Participants are also expected to have an English level sufficient for communication and training.
Applications can be submitted until June 16, 2026. Details at the link.
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