Green Innovation Challenge

Join the Q&A session on May 9, 12:00 via the link: https://undp.zoom.us/j/83201106321 (Language: Ukrainian)

Amidst the effects of the full-scale war and constant economic turbulence, Ternopil City in Ukraine stands resilient, a testament to the indomitable spirit of its people. The full-scale war inflicted upon Ukraine by Russia has cast a shadow over the city’s economy, diminishing its allure for investors and threatening its economic stability. Like many cities across Ukraine, Ternopil has become a sanctuary, offering refuge to tens of thousands of internally displaced persons seeking solace amidst the chaos of war. 

Yet, with each new challenge comes an opportunity for reinvention and renewal.  Refusing to succumb to despair, Ternopil is embracing a new vision for the future – one rooted in sustainability, resilience, and prosperity. The city is embarking on a transformative journey towards a Green Economy, charting a course that promises not only economic growth but also environmental stewardship and social equity. 

But what exactly is a Green Economy? It’s a holistic approach to economic development that aims to improve human well-being and social equity while significantly reducing environmental risks and ecological scarcities. For Ternopil, transitioning to a Green Economy means embracing sustainable, circular, and nature-based business practices that foster innovation, create jobs, and enhance the quality of life for all residents. 

By harnessing the power of renewable energy, promoting eco-friendly transportation options, implementing green building practices, and investing in sustainable agriculture and tourism, Ternopil can unlock a wealth of opportunities for economic growth and environmental conservation. From reducing carbon emissions to preserving natural resources and promoting social inclusion, the benefits of a Green Economy are manifold. 

To assist Ternopil, UNDP Ukraine is launching the Green Innovation Challenge — an acceleration programme that welcomes entrepreneurs, innovators, and visionaries to join us in shaping the city’s future. 

The Green Innovation Challenge is open to micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) with groundbreaking solutions that align with the principles of the Green Economy. Whether it’s pioneering green technologies, sustainable business models, or nature-based solutions, your ideas have the power to shape the future of Ternopil and beyond. 

The acceleration programme will handpick up to 5 MSMEs that demonstrate significant business potential for making the shift toward Ternopil’s development strategy. For this, UNDP Ukraine teamed up with BOOST — a regional acceleration programme for social impact innovators in Europe and Central Asia. Together we will provide impactful learning for the selected participants. 

As part of the Green Innovation Challenge, the MSMEs will receive awards of up to USD10,000. Subject to the availability of funds, participants may also have the chance to pitch for additional financing after completing the programme. 

Join us as we pave the way toward a greener, more sustainable future for Ternopil City. Together, let’s turn challenges into opportunities and dreams into reality.   

Apply now and be a catalyst for change in the journey towards a Green Economy! 

The Green Innovation Challenge is being carried out under the Mayers for Economic Growth initiative, financed by the EU and implemented by UNDP.

This track targets micro-small-to-medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Ternopil with innovations that promote sustainable, circular, and nature-based business practices. Solutions that clearly align with Ternopil’s efforts to become a green and comfortable city will be prioritised.

• Type: MSMEs with a minimum of 1 year of business operations.
• Location registration: Registered and/or conducting economic activities in the Ternopil city territorial community.
• Language: Ukrainian 

• Innovation: Innovations that use cutting-edge technologies or innovative digital tools, or introduce new ideas, approaches, products, or services to a target group or a market. 
• Feasibility: Innovations that are feasible, i.e. they can be tested and/or implemented between July-October 2024 with the suggested budget.     
• Scalability: Innovations that have the potential to be scaled up or replicated within or even beyond their respective geographical area of operations.  
• Potential impact: Innovations that contribute to the city’s respective portfolio and demonstrate high potential for impact. 
• Management: MSMEs with an adequate team in place, with clear roles and responsibilities, and the capacity to develop and implement their innovation.

*Each criterion carries a weight of 20%.