Deadline: 8 May 2025
Submissions are now open for the BOOST: Green Futures Challenge to support bold, green innovations from startups and ventures in Ukraine and Moldova.
Aims
- Backed by UNDP, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland and local partners, this initiative aims to support businesses that are reshaping the future through green tech, circular economy models, and digital solutions – building resilience and driving sustainable recovery.
Focus Areas
- The BOOST: Green Futures Challenge, powered by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Europe and Central Asia and supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland, focuses on identifying, developing, and scaling innovative green solutions from startups and ventures in Ukraine and Moldova. The programme will support up to 40 teams working on sustainable, digital, and circular economy solutions that drive green recovery and economic resilience. The programme is looking for solutions in these key areas:
- Energy security & sustainable power
- Circular economy & sustainable business models
- Climate-resilient infrastructure & urban development
- Green finance & impact investment
- Services related to recovery and resilience (E.g. health & care)
Funding Information
- Demo Day & Innovation Challenge: At the end of the programme, all participants will have a chance to pitch their solutions to a jury panel of industry leaders, investors, and ecosystem partners and compete for a total prize pool of USD $120,000. Selected participating organizations will receive:
- Innovation Prizes ($20,000 per winning participant);
- Tailored mentorship from experts in Poland, Ukraine, and Moldova;
- Opportunities to present at global startup events.
Benefits
- Participants will receive:
- Tailored training & mentorship
- Innovation prizes and exposure to global startup events
- Access to the BOOST alumni network and post-acceleration support
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must:
- be a registered company/enterprise in Ukraine or Moldova;
- have an MVP (Minimum Viable Product) or working prototype;
- be committed to actively participate in the acceleration programme.
- Based on these criteria, interested applicants will be invited to proceed to the second stage of the application process.
Selection Criteria
- Innovation: Unique and impactful solutions
- Scalability: Growth potential and market fit
- Feasibility: Realistic implementation and clear objectives
- Impact: Economic, social, and environmental benefits
- Team strength: Experienced, committed, and capable leadership
Application Process
- The application process includes two stages: an expression of interest (phase 1), followed by a full application for interested candidates (phase 2).
For more information, visit UNDP.