Deadline: September 02, 2025
IdeasLab is a free accelerator program for Ukrainian student startups who want to take the first step in entrepreneurship.
The program start is September 9, 2025, with a duration of 11 weeks, and the application deadline is September 2, 23:59; selection interviews will be conducted from 02/09-08/09; the format is hybrid; the cost is free; registration starts September 9, 2025.
IdeasLab is a free accelerator program for Ukrainian student startups who want to take the first step in entrepreneurship; over the course of 11 weeks, IdeasLab helps transform ideas into real projects — through hands-on practice, a grant of over 150,000 UAH, and guidance from those who know how to bring ideas to life — because they’ve done it themselves.
Since 2021, IdeasLab held 7 batches, supported over 100 student teams, launched 52 startups, provided up to $5,000 in grant funding at the idea validation stage, gathered 80+ mentors and lecturers, attracted $200,000 in investment, received 660+ applications from 77 universities across 11 countries and 3 continents, alumni have been recognized at global events such as Web Summit, AI Summit New York, and IT Arena, IdeasLab is a member of the National Network of Startup Schools — Incubators — Accelerators.
The program is structured into four key phases. The first phase focuses on Initial Market Validation, lasting three weeks, where teams define hypotheses and present their progress at Pitch Day #1. Customer Development follows for four weeks, with a hackathon at UCU and Pitch Day #2, where up to five teams are awarded grants of 60,000 UAH each. The next stage is Marketing & Sales, also spanning four weeks, including Pitch Day #3, where three finalist teams receive 110,000 UAH each. The Post-Program phase offers continued opportunities such as involvement with the University of Notre Dame’s acceleration program, access to specialized workshops, and the chance to serve as program ambassadors.
IdeasLab places strong emphasis on mentorship and expert guidance. Its roster includes professionals and entrepreneurs from organizations like Angel One, Grammarly, 6037 Venture, SoftServe, AISDR, UNICEF, EVERLEGAL, QuibStudio, Tickets.ua, HubSpot, and Medallion, along with lecturers from the University of Notre Dame. Students can also engage in hackathons, pitch events, and international networking opportunities.
Applications are open to Ukrainian students from any domestic or international university in any field of study. Teams of up to five participants can apply, and prior experience is not required. The program encourages those with ideas, ambition, and willingness to learn, take risks, and create something meaningful.
Beyond the grants and training, IdeasLab offers unique bonuses, including a potential trip to the United States to visit the IDEA Center at the University of Notre Dame, access to exclusive perks and partner discounts, opportunities for greater visibility at pitch and demo events, and inclusion in a supportive entrepreneurial network.
Turn your idea into a successful startup by joining IdeasLab and gaining the support, resources, and mentorship necessary to bring your vision to life.
For more information, visit Ideas Center UCU.
