Ukraine-Ready4EU supports Ukrainian businesses in integrating into the European market. As part of the project, sole proprietors (SPs) can apply for a grant of up to €2,500 to implement strategic activities in the Single Market. While the program primarily focuses on small and medium-sized enterprises, it offers equally valuable opportunities for SPs.

What Can the Grant Cover?

SPs can receive funding to support one of the following activities:

• Participation in Business Meetings. The grant covers transportation costs, registration fees, and organizational expenses for international events to build partnerships and find clients.
• Implementation of Sustainability Standards and Digital Technologies. Funding is available for developing and implementing eco-friendly standards, automating business processes, and adopting modern IT solutions and software.
• Product Certification. The grant helps cover the costs of certifying products to meet EU requirements, enabling their entry into the European market.
• Customs and Export-Import Procedures Assistance. SPs can access consultations, improve logistics processes, and adapt documentation to EU standards.

These activities empower Ukrainian businesses to enhance their competitiveness, improve the quality of their products and services, and boost their international visibility.

Key Considerations for SPs

Sole proprietors can apply for grants under the same guidelines as LLCs, but some specific conditions apply:

• Financial History. Your business must have been operational for at least six months, ideally a year, demonstrating stability and improving the likelihood of application approval.
• Direct Implementation of Activities. SPs must personally execute the planned activities, with expenses covered via the SP’s account or personal card.
• Reimbursement of funds. Grant money is refunded to the SP’s bank account.
• Engaging a travel agency to implement activities. In such cases, it is crucial to sign a detailed contract clearly specifying all the activities to be carried out by the agency.

How to Join the Project

Kharkiv IT Cluster acts as a consortium representative and project selection committee member for Ukraine-Ready4EU. The Cluster team guides participants throughout the process, offering consultations and comprehensive support.

Here’s the step-by-step process for SPs

1. Review the Applicant Guideline, which outlines all program details.
2. If your business is a member of the Kharkiv IT Cluster, schedule a meeting with a Cluster curator to discuss the application and reporting specifics for SPs.
3. Plan the list of activities you aim to implement within three months and calculate the expenses to be covered by the grant.
4. Submit the required documents to the curator for a pre-application review.
5. Complete the application on the official website and await approval from the selection committee.
6. After approval, start implementing the activities and submit a financial report with expense confirmations to receive reimbursement.

Why Participate?

Entering the EU market provides access to new clients, partners, and technologies. Ukraine-Ready4EU simplifies this process by offering both financial and organizational support.

Don’t wait — the application deadline is June 30, 2025, but the project budget might be exhausted earlier. Take this chance to expand your business. For inquiries and application support, email community@it-kharkiv.com.

Join the progressive Kharkiv IT Cluster community, transform your business, and make a breakthrough in the international market.