Ukraine joined the EU programme in the midst of the full-scale war. The results are already visible: 94 institutions (from universities to private companies) are implementing digital transformation projects. Out of the total programme budget, €1.5 million is specifically directed to small and medium-sized businesses.
Beyond entrepreneurship, technology is also helping preserve history. For example, the NGO “Pixelated Realities” is successfully digitizing cultural heritage using 3D modelling. Practical steps for integrating Ukrainian solutions into the European space were discussed during a large-scale meeting in Kyiv.
Network of hubs: from smart cities to agritech
The Ministry of Digital Transformation continues its shift toward a proactive, agent-based state built on artificial intelligence. To keep businesses competitive, Ukraine is developing an innovation ecosystem. Last year, the first six hubs were launched. Now, thanks to an additional EU competition, four more have joined the network.
In Kyiv, two hubs have opened: Kyiv HiTech (focused on cybersecurity, AI, and blockchain) and EUNITED Digital Hub (supporting global market entry). In Ivano-Frankivsk, GC-EDIH will develop green technologies, while the West Ukraine EDIH in Lviv will focus on medical and agritech solutions.
From startups to communities: real transformation cases
The programme demonstrates practical impact on the ground. Every euro invested becomes an investment in the resilience of Ukrainian products. European digital innovation hubs have already supported a number of important projects:
- Manufacturing: The sportswear brand MAXsport, with the help of the Clotex hub, learned 3D clothing design and began implementing smart manufacturing.
- Startups: The online veterinary service PetSOS, with support from Central Ukraine EDIH, identified weaknesses in its tech base and applied for a grant to develop advanced innovations.
- Communities: The Semenivka community, together with POLIDIH, created an interactive resource map — a modern geo-investment passport that now attracts investors.
- Security: The Kharkiv Reform Office worked with Eastern Ukraine EDIH to create a city situational center. The hub helped select digital tools for rapid coordination of services during air-raid alerts and secure funding for the project.
Contacts of all innovation hubs are available via the link.
