UNDP has published the BOOST: Green Futures Challenge Programme Report, showcasing how the initiative supported scalable, impact-driven solutions to advance green recovery and resilience in Moldova and Ukraine.
Launched as part of UNDP’s broader efforts to foster an inclusive and sustainable economic recovery, the programme brought together innovators working across key areas, including the circular economy, green finance, energy security, and climate-resilient urban development.
Following an open call, 40 selected ventures embarked on a 10-week acceleration programme that combined structured learning, tailored mentorship, and ecosystem engagement. The BOOST acceleration programme delivered five core modules, ranging from SDG impact management to sustainability-focused business models. It was complemented by targeted programme boosters and one-on-one guidance from Polish and UNDP experts, covering topics such as business model development, technology selection, pitching, legal issues, and investment readiness.
The programme culminated in Demo Days in Lviv, Ukraine and Chișinău, Moldova in September and October 2025. The events brought together innovators, investors, public institutions, and ecosystem partners to catalyze collaboration and investment. A total of 37 ventures pitched across both Demo Days, competing for US$140,000 in Innovation Prizes. Seven ventures were awarded US$20,000 each to support further development and scaling.
To further strengthen international exposure, selected ventures participated in Warsaw Connect, a study visit in cooperation with Venture Café Warsaw. The visit enabled direct engagement with European investors, accelerators, and institutions, supporting ventures in navigating and entering EU markets.
The report highlights key results and insights from the programme, including significant gains in venture capacity (with 86% reporting improvements in their solutions or operations) and stronger integration of impact into business models (88% incorporated social, environmental, or economic impact). It also captures participant feedback and emerging outcomes, including strengthened skills in impact management, business modelling, and fundraising, as well as early-stage partnerships and collaboration opportunities across ecosystems.
Financed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland, the programme was implemented in collaboration with a dynamic network of partners, including Polish Aid, Moldova Innovation Technology Park, Diia.Business, Polish-Ukrainian Startup Bridge and Venture Café Warsaw, reinforcing the role of cross-border cooperation in driving sustainable development.
Read the articles on how the ventures are driving circular experiments and green innovation.