Two Ukrainian women-led startups have successfully completed a six-month acceleration programme in France, enhancing their growth and competitiveness. This programme not only advanced the development of these promising startups but also reinforced the empowerment of women entrepreneurs, contributing to a more inclusive and gender-sensitive innovation landscape. By deepening ties between Ukraine’s and France’s startup ecosystems, the programme has also paved the way for sustained collaboration.
The access to this transformative programme was offered to the two startups by the EU4Innovation East project funded by the European Union, co-funded by the French Government and implemented by Expertise France. The main goal of EU4Innovation East is to strengthen the maturity and competitiveness of the startup ecosystem within the Eastern Partnership.
“The aim of the EU4Innovation East project is to support digital innovation in the Eastern Partnership by equipping entrepreneurs with essential tools, networks, and resources. By supporting these two Ukrainian startups, we have given them the push that they needed to grow and become more competitive. Their success is a source of inspiration for all and this also a tangible example of our approach to build bridges with the EU startup ecosystem, by leveraging the creativity, talent and ambition of our partners” says Thibault Charlet, Programme Manager, Digital and Economic Development, Directorate-General for Enlargement Negotiations and Neighbourhood East, European Commission.
To further support their growth, EU4Innovation East has awarded each startup a €25,000 grant, enabling them to scale their impact and expand their market presence.
″France’s support to Ukraine also means to help build its economic resilience and plan for its future economic growth. Beyond accelerating the growth of these two promising startups and supporting their development in a rapidly evolving global landscape, we are also contributing to the advancement of Ukraine’s innovation ecosystem and support technological progress in Europe.″ mentioned Sophie Villette, Deputy Head of the Development and Sustainable Solidarity Investment Department, Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France.
″By unlocking the potential of Ukrainian startups, we are not only accelerating their integration into European markets but also deepening the connection between France’s dynamic innovation ecosystem and Ukraine’s rapidly growing tech sector. This programme showcases how entrepreneurship can transcend borders, foster meaningful connections, and drive sustainable growth. We expect the highly promising Ukrainian innovation ecosystem to play a key role in the country’s reconstruction and its future prosperity.″ quotes Fanny Labarthe, from the Ministry of the Economy, Finance and Industrial and Digital Sovereignty of France.
One of the startups which completed the acceleration programme is Hydratico which offers a cutting-edge water desalination and treatment technology that is both modular and climate neutral. Kateryna Ryabiko, Co-Founder of Hydratico, shared her thoughts on the programme: “Participating in the accelerator empowered us to elevate Hydratico’s potential. Through tailored support and strategic, long-term partnerships, the program amplified our impact, driving meaningful growth and cross-border collaboration in uncertain times.” Kateryna, an advocate for Ukraine-born innovations and “diplomacy through technology,” is committed to leveraging technology for sustainable development and addressing climate change.
The second startup which participated in the programme is V-Art, a deep tech company whose blockchain-based technology streamlines content licensing, allowing brands and AI companies to efficiently manage and monetize digital assets at scale. Anastasiia Gliebova, Co-Founder of V-Art, mentioned: “The acceleration programme has provided us with invaluable support, helping us scale our operations and establish meaningful partnerships. Its influence has been especially impactful in facilitating client deals and expanding our presence in the French market, giving us the tools and confidence to reach new heights.“ Anastasiia, a tech entrepreneur and lawyer specialising in intellectual property, co-founded V-Art with Olga Simson, an expert in IP law who has contributed significantly to shaping legal frameworks in the AI and creative industries.
Incubation and acceleration programs are central to the mission of the EU4Innovation East project which is fostering digital innovation across the Eastern Partnership region.
″EU4Innovation East is proud to support visionary entrepreneurs, such as V-Art and Hydratico, equipping them with the tools to scale their solutions and shape the future. The acceleration programme in France provided the two Ukrainian startups with resources vital for their growth and long-term success. Through this initiative, we have also actively championed inclusivity, reinforcing our dedication to fostering an equitable innovation landscape where women-led startups can thrive,” noted Julien Schmitt, EU4Innovation East Project Director.
