Innovation and Tech Lab

The Innovation and Tech Lab funding opportunity is offered by the U.S. Department of State through the U.S. Embassy Kyiv, Public Diplomacy Section. This program is part of the America House Business Impact Series and is designed to strengthen cooperation between the United States and Ukraine in innovation, technology, and creative industries. The initiative aligns with broader U.S. foreign policy and economic objectives by supporting Ukraine’s economic recovery and integration with U.S. markets, particularly during a critical period of rebuilding and modernization. The primary purpose of this grant is to connect Ukrainian startups, entrepreneurs, and innovation ecosystem actors with U.S. expertise, companies, and investors. The program emphasizes practical engagement, including training, mentorship, networking, and exposure to U.S. market systems. Activities must be delivered through the American Spaces network, including locations such as Kyiv, Lviv, and Odesa. The program is expected to build participants’ understanding of U.S. market requirements, improve investment readiness, and foster long-term partnerships with U.S. organizations. Funding is provided through a cooperative agreement mechanism, meaning the U.S. Embassy will have substantial involvement in program design, oversight, and implementation. The award amount ranges from 85000 to 190000 dollars, with approximately 85000 dollars available in total funding, subject to availability. The performance period is up to 18 months. Funds may be used for programmatic activities such as training, mentorship, staffing, travel, and materials, but cannot support construction, direct social services, partisan political activity, or commercial ventures. Cost sharing is encouraged but not required. Eligibility is limited to U.S. and Ukrainian nonprofit organizations, including civil society and nongovernmental organizations. Applicants must demonstrate operational experience in Ukraine, maintain a legally registered office, and show the capacity to manage all aspects of the program. Strong collaboration between U.S. and Ukrainian partners is required, including evidence of existing relationships and joint program development. Applicants must also maintain a valid registration in SAM.gov and possess a Unique Entity Identifier. The application process requires submission of standard federal forms (SF-424 and SF-424A), a detailed proposal narrative (up to 15 pages), a line-item budget with justification, and supporting documentation such as resumes, letters of support, and proof of nonprofit status. Proposals must clearly outline objectives, program design, timeline, personnel, partnerships, and monitoring and evaluation plans. Applications must be submitted via email to the designated embassy address. Applications are due by June 15, 2026 at 23:59 Kyiv time. The anticipated project start date is September 1, 2026, and applicants are typically notified within 120 days after the deadline. The program is not explicitly described as recurring. Evaluation criteria include program quality and feasibility, organizational capacity, project planning, budget justification, monitoring and evaluation, and sustainability. The U.S. Embassy plays an active role throughout the grant lifecycle, including reviewing program components, approving key decisions, and monitoring performance. Recipients are responsible for implementation, reporting, compliance, and financial management. Regular reporting, including quarterly progress and financial reports, is required. This funding opportunity represents a strategic investment in fostering long-term U.S.-Ukraine collaboration in innovation and economic development.

Ensure strong U.S.-Ukraine partnerships; align clearly with stated objectives; provide detailed M&E plan; demonstrate organizational capacity and feasibility; justify budget thoroughly