European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)

About EBRD 

The EBRD is investing in changing people’s lives from central Europe to central Asia, the Western Balkans and the southern and eastern Mediterranean region. Since 1991 we have invested over €185 billion in more than 6,700 projects. With an emphasis on working with the private sector, we invest in projects, engage in policy dialogue and provide technical advice which fosters innovation and builds modern economies that are competitive, well governed, green, inclusive, resilient and integrated. The Bank is owned by 72 countries as well as the EU and the EIB. 

Our partnership with EBRD 

EBRD funds our hackathon for displaced Ukrainian entrepreneurs in Poland, implemented by our member Youth Business Poland (YBP). Over three weeks in March 2024, the hackathon will connect Ukrainian entrepreneurs with Polish entrepreneurs, innovators, scientists, and policy makers to find innovative solutions that will help Ukrainian-owned businesses in Poland grow and create jobs. 

The Hackathon will be open to 100 participants of whom at least 80 will be early-stage Ukrainian entrepreneurs and those with business ideas who lack networks with peers and local stakeholders, have limited exposure to modern startup development practices, and insufficient information and skills to access finance and investments. Through a mix of online and in-person sessions, participants of the hackathon will identify challenges, collaborate with local experts, governance, and businesses to develop strategies for business growth, and test ideas and concepts to accelerate their financial and professional growth. 
The hackathon will culminate in a pitch competition where winners will be awarded grants for their businesses.