Ukrainian cities face an urgent need to sustainably transform local economic systems, which have become unstable as the war directly impacts infrastructure, human capital, and traditional markets. These challenges place a significant strain on local businesses, hindering their ability to maintain community stability and provide employment for residents. In Nizhyn (Chernihiv region) and Kovel (Volyn region), these pressures have served as a catalyst for seeking practical “green” solutions that support sustainable economic recovery and foster energy resilience. 

To support these efforts, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Ukraine and BOOST have joined forces under the Slovak Republic-funded City Experiment Fund (CEF) to launch the CEF x BOOST Green Economy Innovation Challenge. This open call aims to identify and support micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) operating in Nizhyn or Kovel that offer solutions to bolster economic recovery driven by green innovations. 

Up to ten MSMEs will be selected to participate in a structured acceleration journey that includes: 

1. Hands-on training sessions focused on strengthening business models and innovative green solutions 
2. One-to-one expert guidance to refine solutions and prepare for real-world implementation 
3. Collaborative peer exchange through structured learning circles and community-of-practice activities 
4. Impact design support, including SDG-aligned impact planning and practical measurement tools 
5. City Demo Days, where teams showcase and pitch solutions to local public and private stakeholders. 

Upon successful completion of the programme, four MSMEs (two from each city) will receive US$10,000 each to pilot and implement their solutions locally. All graduates will also be invited to join the BOOST Alumni Network, gaining access to continued learning, mentorship, and broader ecosystem opportunities. 

What are we looking for? 

We are looking for local MSMEs with practical, ready-to-test solutions that promote economic recovery by introducing innovative green solutions, particularly those that strengthen community energy sustainability and do not harm the environment. 

In Kovel, we are especially interested in solutions that: 

• Increase the economic sustainability of MSMEs through the implementation of sustainable, resource-efficient, and environmentally friendly business models. 
• Facilitate the transition of businesses to green products, services, and processes that create new added value and competitive advantages in the local market. 
• Support the development of green entrepreneurship and local green growth, specifically through innovation, new markets, and partnerships. 

In Nizhyn, we are especially interested in solutions that: 

• Strengthen the economic resilience of MSMEs by transforming business models towards sustainability, circularity, and the efficient use of resources. 
• Stimulate business transformation towards sustainable and green solutions that unlock new markets, increase the competitiveness of MSMEs, and generate added value for the local economy. 
• Promote the emergence of green entrepreneurship, opening new opportunities for local economic growth through innovation, market niches, and partnerships. 

Eligibility Criteria 

To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria: 

• Type: Micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) 
• Experience: Minimum 1 year of business operations 
• Location: Registered and conducting economic activities in Nizhyn or Kovel city territorial communities 
• Language: Ukrainian 

Selection Criteria 

All applications will be reviewed against the following criteria: 

• Impact potential: The potential of the proposed solution to bring tangible benefits for improving economic sustainability and developing the green economy in Nizhyn or Kovel. 
• Innovation: A new or improved approach, product, service, or use of technology that brings clear added value. 
• Feasibility: A realistic plan to pilot or implement the solution locally within the programme timeframe. 
• Scalability: The potential to grow, replicate, or adapt the solution within or beyond the city. 
• Team capacity: A capable team with the skills and roles needed to deliver the pilot and implementation. 

How to apply  

To submit your application, please fill in the form via this link by 8 March 2026. 

If you have any questions regarding the application process, please join our Q&A session on 19 February at 14:00 (Kyiv time) via this link.