The Ukrainian Red Cross, in collaboration with the Austrian Red Cross and the Austrian Development Agency, has announced the opening of applications for the second cohort of the REDpreneur Women programme. This initiative is designed to support women across Ukraine in developing and scaling socially oriented business ventures. By providing a combination of specialized training, mentorship, and networking opportunities, the programme aims to empower female entrepreneurs to create sustainable solutions that address pressing social and environmental challenges within their communities.
Program Overview and Objectives
The REDpreneur Women programme is a specialized incubator focused on fostering social entrepreneurship among women in Ukraine.
The primary goal is to equip participants with essential business tools, financial literacy, and leadership skills required to launch or rebuild impactful enterprises.
The initiative emphasizes innovative business models that prioritize social value and environmental sustainability alongside financial viability.
It seeks to create a robust ecosystem of female leaders who can contribute to Ukraine’s recovery, community resilience, and long-term economic stability.
Eligibility and Selection Criteria
Applications are open to Ukrainian women aged 18 and over who:
• reside in territories controlled by the Government of Ukraine;
• have an innovative business idea in a sustainable sector with a social and environmental component;
• do not currently run a business or are seeking to restart their own business;
• have a stable internet connection to participate in online training.
Having a recognised vulnerability status will be considered an additional advantage, provided other selection criteria are met.
A total of 25 participants will be selected for this intensive second cohort. Candidates must demonstrate strong motivation, feasibility of the idea, and potential social impact, as well as a commitment to attend all sessions and actively participate in mentoring.
Key Components and Benefits
Participants will engage in an intensive training curriculum covering business planning, marketing, and financial management, delivered by the Ukrainian Future Business Incubator.
The programme provides access to expert mentors and industry professionals for personalized guidance and feedback.
Networking and inspirational sessions help participants connect with peers, partners, and potential supporters.
Seventeen finalists will receive further support to implement their ideas, along with EUR 7,000 each to advance their projects toward sustainable, investable business models that create jobs and benefit local communities.
Partners and Support Network
The project is implemented by the Ukrainian Red Cross Society in partnership with the Austrian Red Cross.
Strategic funding and support are provided by the Austrian Development Agency (ADA) and NACHBAR IN NOT.
Technical expertise and incubation support are delivered by the Ukrainian Future Business Incubator.
This collaborative framework combines international expertise with localized market insights to maximize participant success.
Application Details and Deadlines
Interested candidates must submit their applications through the official online registration portal.
Application deadline: 12 February 2026, 23:59 (Kyiv time).
Applicants are encouraged to provide clear, detailed descriptions of their business ideas and personal motivation. After the deadline, submissions will be reviewed by a selection committee, and successful candidates will be notified.
This programme offers Ukrainian women a clear path to turn socially and environmentally focused ideas into real, sustainable businesses with expert training, mentoring, and seed support. If you meet the criteria, review the requirements and apply by 12 February 2026 to take the next step in your entrepreneurial journey.