UNDP launches BOOST: Green Futures Challenge in Ukraine and Moldova

Press Release – April 7, 2025 – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland, is launching the BOOST: Green Futures Challenge – a new call for innovative green, digital, and circular solutions from startups and ventures in Ukraine and Moldova.

The war in Ukraine and its regional consequences have deeply affected economies, infrastructure, and communities. At the same time, these challenges have underscored the urgent need to rebuild differently — using technology, sustainable practices, and resilient business models to drive inclusive growth and long-term transformation.

The BOOST: Green Futures Challenge aims to identify, support, and scale impactful solutions that advance clean energy, circular economy models, sustainable infrastructure, green finance and more. Up to 40 SMEs – 20 from each country – will be selected to join an intensive acceleration programme offering expert-led training, tailored mentorship, funding opportunities, and global visibility.

“Through this challenge, we aim to empower local innovators to lead the green and digital transition,” said Ievgen Kylymnyk, Regional Project Manager, UNDP Europe and Central Asia. “By investing in their ideas, we’re scaling practical solutions that deliver reliable energy, reduce environmental impact, support sustainable urban development, and make green solutions and finance more accessible to businesses and communities.”

Over ten weeks, selected participants will refine their business models, strengthen their sustainability strategies, and improve their investor readiness. The programme will culminate in a Demo Day in September 2025, where participants will pitch their solutions to a jury of experts and compete for innovation prizes.

The programme is open to startups and SMEs legally registered in Ukraine or Moldova with a working prototype or Minimum Viable Product (MVP). Joint applications between Ukrainian and Moldovan organizations are encouraged.

Applications are open through a two-stage process. Interested candidates are invited to submit an initial application of interest by May 8, 2025. Register for our webinar for more information on the BOOST: Green Futures Challenge and how to apply, and visit https://boostimpact.org.

As a regional initiative powered by UNDP Europe and Central Asia, BOOST supports impact-driven innovation across the region. The BOOST: Green Futures Challenge is funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland and reflects a shared commitment to advance green recovery, economic resilience, and digital transformation in the region.