Securing European Union grants can often be a more challenging hurdle for tech startups than developing their core product. To help mitigate common pitfalls and improve the chances of success in competitive grant applications, the Ukrainian Startup Fund (USF) has launched a practical guide titled “Guide to Grants.”
The guide was officially unveiled during a specialized side event, WIN2EDIH, at the IT Arena 2026 technology conference.
Authored by Olena Voroshilova, head of the USF’s partnership and international cooperation department, the handbook was developed within the framework of the European Digital Innovation Hub WIN2EDIH. This initiative focuses on providing digital solutions for small and medium-sized businesses, startups, and government institutions.
Key Insights for Successful Grant Funding from USF
- Realistic Goal Assessment: Thoroughly verify the alignment between the formal requirements of a grant program and your company’s current objectives and roadmap.
- Transforming Ideas into Clear Concepts: Sharply focus on the problem you are solving, define realistic Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), develop a detailed implementation schedule, and secure reliable partners.
- Logical Application Structure: Build your application document from a detailed description of the problem through to measurable final results.
- Relevant Team: Assemble a project implementation team with individuals possessing the appropriate practical experience for each specific role.
- Justified Budget: Ensure financial calculations accurately reflect the actual scope of work, with transparent allocation of responsibilities and available resources.
The Role of WIN2EDIH Hub for Tech Businesses
Recommendations for Grant Application Preparation via “Guide to Grants”
| Preparation Stage | Key Task per USF Guide |
| Focus Analysis | Aligning grant objectives with your actual business strategy. |
| Conceptualization | Formulating the problem, defining KPI metrics, and establishing timelines. |
| Structuring | Maintaining a clear logical flow: Problem → Solution → Outcome. |
| Team Formation | Selecting specialists for specific project modules. |
| Budgeting | Transparent calculation of actual expenses and available resources. |
