SoftServe, a global IT company with Ukrainian roots, has announced the winning projects of its Open Call 2025. The event was held in recognition of the fifth anniversary of its OpenTech pro bono program. The volunteers will develop technological solutions for eight impactful initiatives, five of which are from Ukraine.
The received applications were analyzed based on a project scale, audience reach, relevance to current societal needs, potential impact on communities or the environment, and the OpenTech team’s capacity to provide the necessary technological expertise. After a thorough evaluation, the jury selected eight winning projects — more than initially planned — recognizing the proposals’ potential.
“By expanding its support, the OpenTech program reaffirms SoftServe’s commitment to empowering organizations to drive meaningful change in their communities”, comments Dmytro Ivanov, Chief Technologist in the EMEA region at SoftServe, co-author of the program, and member of the Open Call 2025 jury. “Through Open Call 2025 we have found impactful initiatives that accelerate positive change in society. I am sure this win-win approach is not only helping organizations receive technological solutions but also providing our volunteers with valuable experience.”
In Ukraine, the jury selected the following organizations:
- DonorUA, an advanced platform for recruiting and managing blood donors, driving the growth of the blood donation movement across Ukraine;
- Prytula Foundation USA, non-profit committed to delivering critical humanitarian aid and driving sustainable recovery in Ukraine
- Gender in Details, a media platform addressing gender equality and empowering change-makers;
- Liatoshynsky Foundation, an organization studying and preserving the legacy of Ukrainian composer Borys Lyatoshynsky, and advocating for Ukrainian art music;
- Victory Center, an initiative empowering war veterans and frontline-affected kids with equine-assisted therapy to conquer trauma, anxiety, and stress.
During September and October 2024, SoftServe’s Open Call 2025 received 66 applications from non-governmental organizations, charitable foundations, social enterprises, media organizations, and government bodies. Except Ukraine, the jury announced as winners three impactful initiatives from Poland, Colombia, and Mexico working in the fields of supporting refugees, addressing domestic violence issues, implementing the principles of real democracy, and improving access to communications in rural areas.
“We are thrilled to see the winning projects address a diverse range of critical issues, including humanitarian aid, blood donation, gender equality, human rights, art and culture, sustainable development, digital accessibility, and support for war veterans”, adds Mariia Kucherenko, Director of Corporate Reputation & CSR at SoftServe. “For us, the next steps include formalizing partnerships with the selected organizations, assembling volunteering expert teams, and kicking off the development of pro bono technological solutions.”
