GCIP Ukraine — Global Cleantech Innovation Programme in Ukraine

GCIP Ukraine is part of the Global Cleantech Innovation Programme aimed at supporting startups and entrepreneurs in clean technologies.

The program helps innovators bring solutions to market through training, mentorship, and access to experts and investors. In Ukraine, it is implemented by Greencubator with support from international partners.

Eligibility for participation is defined by the type of business, sector, and core startup characteristics.

Who can apply:

• Startups and small and medium-sized businesses (sole proprietors, LLCs, private enterprises).
• Companies operating in the climate tech sector.

Key requirements:

• A developed product and initial customers.
• The business must be registered in Ukraine or have at least one Ukrainian co-founder.

Within the accelerator program, financial support is combined with broader non-financial opportunities.

Financial support:

• Top-performing startups may receive grant funding of up to $20,000.
• Funding is awarded based on the program’s selection results.

Additional opportunities (indirect financial value):

• Participants receive support in connecting with investors, corporate partners, and international networks.
• Startups gain access to pilot opportunities and global market expansion.

After program completion:

• Additional grant funding opportunities and participation in international events (including global conferences) may be available.

Participation cost:

• Participation in the program is free of charge for selected startups.

Key supported activities:

• Intensive training and personalized mentorship for business strategy development.
• Individual consultations on market entry and fundraising.

Work with investors and partners:

• Organization of Investor Connect — structured meetings with investors and partners.
• Support in connecting with corporations for pilot projects and international collaboration.

Networking and ecosystem:

• Access to a global cleantech network of partners.
• Building professional connections and integration into the international ecosystem.

Additional opportunities:

• Focus on solutions in the clean technology sector.
• Support for scaling businesses and entering global markets.

Outcomes for participants:

• Access to knowledge, tools, and networks for business growth.
• Opportunities to attract investment and participate in global events.

The accelerator program roadmap is structured into stages that gradually guide startups from strategy development to global expansion.

Stage 1 (weeks 1–5):

• Focus on strategy, goals, and team alignment.
• Onboarding, goal-setting, organizational development, and the first peer-to-peer session.

Stage 2 (weeks 6–9):

• Deep dive into customers and market understanding.
• Customer Discovery, ideal customer profiling, marketing strategy, and sales structure development.

Stage 3 (weeks 10–13):

• Building financial and operational foundations.
• Financial planning, process optimization, and supply chain management.

Stage 4 (weeks 14–16):

• Focus on ESG, impact, and legal readiness.
• Corporate governance, sustainability practices, and partnership development.

Stage 5 (weeks 17–21):

• Preparation for investment readiness.
• Pitch development, investor engagement, and peer feedback sessions.

Stage 6 (weeks 22–23):

• International scaling and expansion.
• Entering new markets, product adaptation, and building global partnerships.

Final stage (weeks 24–25):

• Demo Week with startup presentations to investors.
• Participation in ecosystem events (including Cleantech Sunday) and expansion of business opportunities.

Go to https://gcip.greencubator.info/apply
and complete the online application form.

The program’s evaluation and selection criteria include both eligibility requirements and a multi-stage assessment process.

Key eligibility criteria:

• Startups must have a developed product and initial customers.
• A competent and established team is required.
• Alignment with target sectors (including energy efficiency, renewable energy, recycling, water solutions, eco-construction, clean transport, advanced materials).
• At least one co-founder must be a Ukrainian citizen.
• English proficiency at B2 level or higher.

Participant commitments:

• Mandatory active participation throughout all program stages and key sessions.

Selection and evaluation process:

• The process includes several stages:
  • interview with program managers;
  • technical due diligence;
  • evaluation by an expert committee;
  • final decision on participation.