Ukrainian Startup Ecosystem 2026: PUSB launches a new study

Polish-Ukrainian Startup Bridge (PUSB) has launched a large-scale research initiative “Ukrainian Startup Ecosystem 2026”, aimed at providing an up-to-date picture of the Ukrainian startup ecosystem and understanding how innovative companies are developing and adapting to wartime conditions.

The “Ukrainian Startup Ecosystem 2026” research initiative is implemented within the Polish-Ukrainian Startup Bridge project in cooperation with the Ukrainian Startup Fund.

WHAT IS THE RESEARCH ABOUT?

The study will examine the current state of the Ukrainian startup ecosystem, the main challenges companies face, their financing and international expansion needs, and their potential for further growth.

Particular attention will be paid to Dual-Use and Defense Tech startups, as well as civilian companies adapting their technologies to respond to emerging needs in Ukraine.

The research will explore:

• the key challenges and growth drivers of Ukrainian startups;
• the development of the Dual-Use and Defense Tech sectors;
• startups’ financing and investment needs;
• international expansion and partnership opportunities;
• the scalability and growth potential of Ukrainian innovative companies;
• the potential contribution of startups to Ukraine’s future recovery;
• opportunities to strengthen cooperation between Ukrainian and European innovation ecosystems.

HOW WILL THE RESEARCH BE CONDUCTED?

The research consists of two main stages.

1. Qualitative research

The first stage will include in-depth interviews with five selected Ukrainian Dual-Use startups. The interviews will explore their business models, development challenges, scaling opportunities, technologies, and potential contribution to Ukraine’s economy and recovery.

2. Quantitative research

The second stage will involve a large-scale survey of Ukrainian startups. The survey will collect data on companies’ current situation, challenges, financing needs, international markets, growth plans, and expectations for the future.

The results of both stages will be combined into a comprehensive analysis of the Ukrainian startup ecosystem in 2026.

WHO IS INVOLVED?

The research is led by Polish-Ukrainian Startup Bridge in cooperation with the Ukrainian Startup Fund, with the support of organizations active in Ukraine’s innovation, entrepreneurship, Dual-Use and Defense Tech ecosystems, including Defence Builder, Diia.City Union, 1991, United Heritage, ISE Corporate Accelerator and YEP.

The research is funded by the Ministry of Development Funds and Regional Policy of the Republic of Poland through the Polish Aid programme.

WHY DOES IT MATTER?

The research will help provide a clearer understanding of how Ukrainian startups are responding to the challenges of wartime and where the biggest opportunities for further development lie.

Its findings will be used to develop practical recommendations for policymakers, investors, international partners, donors, accelerators, and startup support organizations. The study will also highlight opportunities for cooperation between Ukrainian and European innovation ecosystems.

The final report is expected to be published in November–December 2026.