Red Kalyna - EIT Regional Innovation Scheme

EIT Red Kalyna Initiative

Recognition and spotlighting of Ukrainian Women innovators

At the EIT Community we believe in the power of diversity and gender equality. We are Europe’s largest innovation network, uniting various nationalities, ages, abilities, and genders. We are convinced that for innovation to thrive, we need more women innovators, entrepreneurs, and more women in decision making. Diversity powers us to bring best solutions to pressing global challenges, and enables us to make innovation happen.

Who are our participants?

The initiative aims to recognise and promote outstanding Ukrainian women entrepreneurs, educators researchers and mentors, who have developed innovative products or solutions or have transformed their businesses into innovative ones.

EIT Red Kalyna Initiative was launched in 2023. The project has attracted 15+ partners and received over 100 high-quality nominations, showcasing inspiring female leaders from Ukraine.

Submit your application by 1 September 2025. The call will be launched soon.

Despite facing challenges such as a full-scale invasion, Ukrainian women demonstrate remarkable boldness in entrepreneurship, with over 50% of new entrepreneurs being women in 2023. Additionally, more than 30% of C-level positions are held by women, surpassing global averages.

At the EIT Red Kalyna Initiative, our mission is to showcase Ukrainian female innovators, entrepreneurs, researchers, and leaders who persist despite facing various challenges. By highlighting their achievements, we strive to empower women across Europe to pursue their dreams and ambitions.