Enrollment Open for the 'Create HERE!' Initiative
Ukraine is currently accepting applications for the fourth round of the free 'Create HERE!' program, aimed at young people aged 17 to 24 who are eager to develop business ideas and launch their own ventures. Organized by the NGO uBoost, this comprehensive program offers online courses, hands-on workshops, mentorship, and concludes with an in-person accelerator event. Interested participants can register until September 28, 2026.
The course spans 2.5 months of online learning, featuring 15 practical sessions requiring 4–6 hours per week. Topics covered include:
- Business model development
- Growth strategies
- Financial planning
- Unit economics
- Marketing strategies
- Understanding sole proprietorship (FOP)
- Tax regulations
- Grant application preparation
In the final stage, participants will attend a four-day offline accelerator in Kyiv, where 20 finalists will prepare applications for government grants up to 200,000 UAH under the 'Own Business' program.
Eligibility and Opportunities
Applicants must present a clear business idea or an existing enterprise, demonstrate strong motivation, and be willing to operate officially as a sole proprietor (FOP). The business concept should be feasible to launch or expand with investments up to 200,000 UAH. Preference is given to young entrepreneurs from small communities and frontline areas, though applications from others are also welcome.
Valeria Moskova noted, "At the initial stage, we prioritize the clarity and realism of the idea, as well as the participant's motivation, rather than the specific business sector."
Participants will gain valuable networking opportunities with entrepreneurs, grant providers, government program representatives, accountants, lawyers, marketing and finance experts, C-level executives from Ukrainian companies, and officials from the State Employment Service. According to the national study 'Impact of War on Ukrainian Youth — 2025,' 77% of young people are willing to contribute to Ukraine's reconstruction, yet only 1% have actively engaged so far.
Graduates from previous cohorts are already advancing their projects across various Ukrainian regions. Successful alumni include Diana (21, speech therapy center 'Logozavryk' in Olyka, Volyn), Polina Labunets (17, AI platform Skiller in Romny), Sofiya Belykova (20, EasyGrow in Rodnykivka, Cherkasy region), and Anton (17, Nexum service in Kyiv region).
Valeria Moskova also emphasized, "Supporting young entrepreneurial talent throughout Ukraine is crucial to ensure no promising idea or motivated youth is overlooked."
This initiative plays a vital role in empowering young entrepreneurs, especially amid the challenges Ukraine currently faces. Beyond fostering business growth, it contributes to socio-economic development in small communities and frontline territories. Given the strong willingness of youth to participate in rebuilding the country, 'Create HERE!' stands as a significant platform for turning their ideas and projects into reality.
In addition to entrepreneurial opportunities for young people, Ukraine is also fostering innovation through various initiatives. For instance, a new project allows teens to participate in a thrilling racing event in Baku, providing them with unique experiences and the chance to engage with the world of motorsports. Such programs not only empower youth but also encourage them to explore diverse fields. To learn more about this exciting initiative, check out the details here.