EIT Red Kalyna Initiative - “Her Idea, Our Future: Empowering Resilience”
The ongoing war has brought Ukrainian women to the forefront, propelling them into critical leadership roles within the nation’s burgeoning tech sector. These resilient women are gaining invaluable experience and forging global connections, positioning themselves as key players in the reconstruction of Ukraine’s economy once the war ends.
The European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) aligns with the broader European Union in condemning Russia’s unprovoked military aggression against Ukraine. The commitment is clear: to support Ukraine through medical assistance, education, skills training, and full access to our innovation network.
In this spirit, the EIT launched the Red Kalyna Initiative in 2023. This initiative is designed to support Ukrainian women innovators in business, science, and leadership. Through the EIT Strategic Regional Innovation Cluster, we aim to shine a spotlight on their achievements, foster a supportive community, and equip participants with essential knowledge and connections.
From June 11-13, 2024, the EIT Red Kalyna finalists embarked on a transformative study visit to Warsaw. This visit, organized in collaboration with the Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce as a partner of EEN Ukraine, was an inspiring exchange of ideas and empowerment. The participants visited the Polish Agency for Enterprise Development to explore opportunities for Ukrainian start-ups, toured the Warsaw Google Campus, and engaged with the Łukasiewicz Research Network – Warsaw Institute of Technology, observing how science and innovation are applied in everyday life.
The highlight of the visit was the Perspektywy Women in Tech Summit, an event for women in technology held at Warsaw Expo XXI on June 12 and 13. The summit brought together professionals from various fields, including engineers, programmers, scientists, and entrepreneurs. The EIT Community and Red Kalyna participants hosted a session to support Ukrainian female innovators. Finalists also took part in a panel discussion on the main start-up stage, organized by Emerging Europe.
The second call for applications to join the EIT Red Kalyna community is open until September 15. This is an invaluable opportunity for Ukrainian women innovators to join a transformative network. We also welcome organizations committed to supporting and empowering women to grow and inspire.
Together, let us celebrate and support these remarkable women as they lead Ukraine’s tech sector forward. In these challenging times, their innovation and resilience light the way, proving that even in the darkest moments, the human spirit can prevail and rebuild.