Green Economy Innovation Challenge

Ukrainian cities are experiencing an urgent need for sustainable transformation of local economic systems, which are becoming unstable due to the direct impact of the war on infrastructure, human capital and traditional markets. All these challenges directly affect local businesses, their ability to ensure the sustainable functioning of communities, and their capacity to create jobs for residents. In Nizhyn (Chernihiv region) and Kovel (Volyn region), this served as an impetus to seek practical ‘green’ solutions that support sustainable economic recovery and foster energy resilience.

To respond, UNDP Ukraine and BOOST have joined forces under the Slovak Republic-funded City Experiment Fund (CEF) to launch the CEF x BOOST Green Economy Innovation Challenge. This open call aims to identify and support micro-, small-, and medium-sized businesses (MSMEs) operating in Nizhyn or Kovel with solutions that can boost economic recovery driven by green innovations.

Up to ten MSMEs will be selected to participate in a structured acceleration journey that includes:

• Hands-on training sessions focused on strengthening business models and innovative green solutions
• One-to-one expert guidance to refine solutions and prepare for real-world implementation
• Collaborative peer exchange through structured learning circles and community-of-practice activities
• Impact design support, including SDG-aligned impact planning and practical measurement tools
• City Demo Days, where teams showcase and pitch solutions to local public and private stakeholders

Following the programme’s successful completion, four MSMEs will receive US$10,000 each to pilot and implement their solutions locally. All graduates will also be invited to join the BOOST Alumni Network, gaining access to continued learning, mentorship, and ecosystem opportunities.

We are looking for local MSMEs with practical, ready-to-test solutions that promote economic recovery by introducing innovative green solutions, particularly those that strengthen community energy sustainability and do not harm the environment.

In Kovel, we are especially interested in solutions that:

• Increase the economic sustainability of MSMEs through the implementation of sustainable, resource-efficient and environmentally friendly business models.
• Facilitate the transition of businesses to green products, services and processes that create new added value and competitive advantages in the local market.
• Support the development of green entrepreneurship and local green growth, in particular through innovation, new markets and partnerships.

In Nizhyn, we are especially interested in solutions that:

• Strengthen the economic resilience of MSMEs by transforming business models towards sustainability, circularity and efficient use of resources.
• Stimulate business transformation towards sustainable and green solutions that unlock new markets, increase the competitiveness of MSMEs and generate added value for the local economy.
• Promote the emergence of green entrepreneurship, opening new opportunities for local economic growth through innovation, market niches and partnerships.

To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Type: Micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs)
• Experience: Minimum 1 year of business operation
• Location: Registered and/or conducting economic activities in Nizhyn or Kovel city territorial communities
• Language: Ukrainian

All applications will be reviewed against the following criteria:

• Impact potential: The potential of the proposed solution to bring tangible benefits for improving economic sustainability and developing the green economy in Nizhyn or Kovel.
• Innovation: A new or improved approach, product, service, or use of technology that brings clear added value
• Feasibility: A realistic plan to pilot or implement the solution locally within the programme timeframe
• Scalability: Potential to grow, replicate, or adapt the solution within or beyond the city
• Team capacity: A capable team with the skills and roles needed to deliver the pilot and implementation

To submit your application, please complete this form by 15 March 2026.