The Brave International Initiative
Ukraine's government has established a unified framework called Brave International to coordinate defense innovation efforts with international allies. The program brings together several initiatives, including UNITE Brave NATO, Brave Norway, Brave France, Brave Germany, and Brave Lithuania. With a combined budget exceeding €100 million for its initial programs, this effort opens up new avenues for advancing defense technologies within Ukraine. This move is particularly significant as Ukraine continues to modernize its defense sector amid ongoing security challenges.
Eligibility and Participation
Both Ukrainian companies and foreign developers or startups can take part in the program. Brave International operates through joint grant funds, with Ukraine and each partner country contributing equal shares. The initiative also establishes parity-based supervisory boards and expert panels to ensure comprehensive oversight of project implementation.
Applications for competitions are open to both Ukrainian and international participants. A mandatory requirement is that all developments undergo testing and verification on the Test in Ukraine platform. The Brave1 defense technology cluster plans to launch the first joint international competitions in the near future.
As stated by Yuliia Svyrydenko: 'This decision applies to both already announced and future international initiatives. It gives the green light for the rapid launch of joint grant competitions under these programs.'
The program's primary objectives include:
- Identifying new technologies and products to meet the urgent needs of the Ukrainian front lines;
- Attracting additional funding to support Ukrainian defense startups;
- Deepening collaboration with the innovation ecosystems of partner nations.
Thanks to this newly established framework, the Brave1 defense technology cluster will soon roll out the first joint international competitions, further integrating Ukraine's defense tech sector into the global market.
The launch of Brave International marks a crucial step for Ukraine in addressing modern security and defense challenges. By partnering with international allies, Ukraine can not only secure financial resources but also align with global technological trends, ultimately strengthening its national defense capabilities. For Ukrainian startups, participation in these international competitions and initiatives opens up new opportunities to bring their innovative solutions to a worldwide stage.