Knowledge Rise: opportunities for the development of Ukrainian Deep Tech startups

The Knowledge Rise Project, implemented by an international consortium of European partners, is launching a comprehensive support program for Deep Tech startups. This initiative, carried out within the CloudEARTHi framework and supported by EIT-HEI, aims to build a structured ecosystem for the commercialization of scientific developments.

Kyiv Academic University, as one of the key partners of the Knowledge Rise project, invites Ukrainian Deep Tech startup teams to join the program. Eligible startups should contribute to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and align with the priorities of the EU’s blue and green economies.

The Knowledge Rise Acceleration Program will be delivered in two consecutive cohorts: the first in 2025 and the second in 2026. Each cohort will undergo an intensive 10-week acceleration cycle, bringing together innovative teams from EU member states and Horizon Europe associated countries. While the program does not provide direct funding, it offers tailored mentorship, milestone-based project development, and access to extensive investor and strategic partner networks.

Startups will benefit from a personalized yet collaborative learning journey, including:

• Individual mentorship from experienced consortium experts, with personalized sessions and access to additional technical consultants when needed. Mentors also open doors to partner networks and facilitate valuable connections.

• Educational workshops led by practitioners with real-world expertise. These interactive sessions cover critical topics ranging from product development to market entry, financing strategies, and intellectual property protection, combining theory with practical case studies.

• Peer-to-peer learning sessions, where participants exchange experiences, challenges, and strategies in formats tailored to their needs.

• Operational support, including regular progress monitoring, promotion through partner channels and social media to increase visibility with investors and clients, as well as specialized guidance in innovation strategy and IP protection.

The most promising participants will receive post-acceleration support to advance their development, scale operations, and attract investment. Startups will also gain access to a comprehensive set of ready-to-use business management tools designed to accelerate growth and optimize operations.

Eligibility criteria:

• Alignment with key Deep Tech sectors.

• Demonstrated contribution to the transition toward the green and/or blue economy.

• Location in the European Union or in one of the Horizon Europe associated countries (Ukraine is officially included).

• Legal entity registration is required (early-stage teams planning to register may be considered on a case-by-case basis).

• Technology Readiness Level (TRL) between 3 and 6.

• Total public and private funding received must not exceed €50,000 at the time of application.

Application process:
Startups must submit applications via the online platform, with all materials provided in English.

Required documents:

• Completed online application form (template in .docx format).

• Signed Honor Declaration.

• Pitch deck in .ppt or .pdf format.

Only complete applications with all required documents submitted by 7 September 2025 will be considered.

Additional information about the program, selection criteria, and FAQs is available on the official program website.