BOOST announces twelve participants selected for innovation challenges in Ukraine 

BOOST, powered by UNDP, in collaboration with the European Union (EU), the Government of Denmark, are proud to announce the successful launch of the acceleration programme in Ukraine.  

The programme, part of the broader Mayors for Economic Growth (M4EG), a joint EU-UNDP initiative supporting local governments in the Eastern Partnership countries on their path to inclusive economic growth, has selected twelve innovative teams to drive economic growth in two participating cities Mykolaiv and Ternopil. 

The teams represent a wide range of micro, small, to medium-sized enterprises, each bringing innovative solutions in the “blue” or “green” economy sectors. The selected participants span diverse industries, including electric transportation, maritime equipment, environmental technologies, and sustainable manufacturing. 

Blue Innovation Challenge (Mykolaiv)   

Seven teams from Mykolaiv are focusing on maritime and water-related innovations: 

• AMICO DIGITAL, LLC: A research and production enterprise specializing in the design, development, manufacture, and support of equipment for metering liquids, oil products, and liquefied gases. Through the programme, the team will acquire knowledge and resources to rebuild their business and continue innovating in the manufacturing of measuring devices crucial for Ukraine’s coastal infrastructure. 
• KranTechElectro, LLC: A company dedicated to the restoration, overhaul, and maintenance of portal cranes, conveyor equipment, and handling equipment for ports and private terminals. The programme will enable them to transform their production processes to be more environmentally sustainable by converting their facilities to solar energy. 
• Kushnyrov (IE): A specialized manufacturer of small, high-density polyethene (HDPE) vessels. Through participation in the programme, the company’s leadership team will enhance their management capabilities while receiving funding to contribute to the revival of Ukraine’s small fleet. 
• Budko (IE): A pioneering team developing and implementing environmentally friendly water treatment technologies for both private households and industrial facilities. Their participation in the acceleration programme will facilitate the development and implementation of innovative water treatment units specifically designed for the city of Mykolaiv. 
• RMC, LLC: One of Ukraine’s leading producers of industrial refrigeration equipment. They plan to develop technical documentation for protective-case units running on natural refrigerant, making refrigeration equipment more environmentally friendly across ships, enterprises, and retail sectors. 
• MeGoElectric UA, LLC: A company at the forefront of affordable electric truck production. Their project focuses on developing and expanding production capabilities to make freight transportation both more affordable and environmentally sustainable. 
• Netudykhata (IE): An innovative agricultural enterprise developing an advanced irrigation automation system for greenhouses and open ground farming. Their technology aims to help Ukrainian farmers reduce water and electricity consumption, increase crop yields, and address the challenge of skilled labor shortages. 

Green Innovation Challenge (Ternopil) 

Five teams from Ternopil are advancing sustainable and environmental initiatives: 

• Eleek, LLC: Ukraine’s first electric bicycle manufacturer, operating since 2010 with expertise in producing and selling electric bicycles, spare parts, and accessories. Their project involves establishing Ternopil’s first electric bike rental business, providing residents and tourists with a faster, more convenient, and environmentally friendly transportation option. 
• KVOTA: A family-owned company with over 30 years of experience in mechanical engineering, specializing in mould design and manufacturing. Their project focuses on producing specialized moulds and environmentally friendly forks for Ternopil’s hospitality sector, including hotels, restaurants, and cafes. 
• City Initiatives, LLC: A technology company specializing in innovative solutions for urban mobility, city management, and e-democracy. Their project involves creating the “Ecomap of Ternopil,” an interactive electronic database of recycling centres integrated into the popular e-Ternopil application. 
• Association of Parks of Culture and Recreation: The sole public utility company in the programme, planning to create an innovative city farm in Sopilche Park. This modern, eco-friendly space will combine innovative plant growing approaches with environmental education initiatives for city residents. 
• Termopaneli, LLC: A market leader in facade insulation thermal panel production and successful exporter to European countries. Their project aims to create a fully energy-independent production facility, advancing both environmental sustainability and business resilience. 

As part of BOOST, all participating teams will receive comprehensive mentoring support, business acceleration guidance, and valuable networking opportunities. Additionally, each team will be eligible for funding of up to US$10,000 to help bring their innovative ideas to life. The programme is scheduled to conclude in Spring 2025, culminating in Demo Days where teams will showcase their achievements and their impact on local economies. 

Find out more about the Blue Innovation Challenge in Mykolaiv and the Green Innovation Challenge in Ternopil.