Ukraine’s startup ecosystem ranked 46th in the Global Startup Ecosystem Index 2024, returning to the top 10 in Eastern Europe after a sharp decline in 2022 (StartupBlink), which was caused by the full-scale Russian invasion. As of early 2024, the Ukrainian startup ecosystem is valued at €23.3 billion and includes more than 2,600 startups (IT Ukraine Association, 2023).
However, the full-scale Russian invasion has inflicted significant damage on the country’s scientific, technological, and innovation infrastructure. Universities, research institutions, and R&D centers have suffered, leading to the emigration of about 25% of scientific personnel and the relocation of a third of IT companies abroad (IT Ukraine Association). As of March 2023, 35% of R&D infrastructure had been damaged or destroyed.
Despite these challenges, Ukraine’s innovation ecosystem demonstrates unprecedented resilience and adaptability, and many companies must adapt their business models to unstable conditions. At the same time, these challenges have driven the development of dual-use technologies, military innovations, and resilience-focused solutions. Ukrainian startups continue to demonstrate impressive scalability, and looking ahead, post-war recovery could serve as a catalyst for new technological breakthroughs, while the experience of operating in crisis conditions may become a competitive advantage in the global market.
Notably, the following sectors are currently experiencing active growth:
At the end of 2024, the Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine developed and the government approved the 2023 WINWIN Innovation Strategy of Ukraine, identifying several key sectors for future development.
In addition, Ukraine has implemented a special regulatory and tax regime to foster startup and tech company development—Diia.City, which currently includes over 1,600 residents.
