CfE Accelerator of the Ukrainian Catholic University, in collaboration with the Stanford Graduate School of Business, is launching the second round of the free educational program for 42 Ukrainian small and medium-sized business entrepreneurs—Stanford Ignite Ukraine. The training will begin in March 2025 and will consist of one week at the Ukrainian Catholic University, four weeks online, and three weeks on-site at the Stanford Graduate School of Business, one of the world’s top business schools. The organizers will cover tuition fees, accommodation near the campus, and basic logistical expenses.
The Stanford Ignite Ukraine program is supported by the Ministry of Economy of Ukraine, the USAID Competitive Economy Program in Ukraine, and the Ukrainian Catholic University.
“Small and medium-sized businesses currently make up the lion’s share of Ukrainian enterprises—99.98% of all companies. They generate two-thirds of the added value and provide more than 80% of the jobs in the country. Investing in their development is an investment in the stability and adaptability of the Ukrainian economy. The Stanford Ignite Ukraine program offers a strong foundation for this development. Studying abroad, along with lectures and practical advice from experienced entrepreneurs and experts, helps participants view their businesses from new perspectives, push boundaries, and establish contacts and partnerships with entrepreneurs from around the world. Thanks to the first wave of the Stanford Ignite Ukraine program, we already have 42 successful examples of such growth. We are grateful to our partners for these initiatives, which are already strengthening the Ukrainian economy and will contribute to post-war recovery,” said Yulia Svyrydenko, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy of Ukraine.
The program is designed for small and medium-sized business owners with at least three years of business experience, a staff of more than 10 employees, and a stable annual turnover, who are looking to scale, launch new products/services, attract investments, or enter new markets.
“I hope that participation in the Stanford Ignite Ukraine program and interaction with leading faculty from the Stanford Graduate School of Business, as well as Silicon Valley investors, will provide Ukrainian entrepreneurs with an invaluable opportunity. They can generate new ideas for developing their businesses under challenging conditions and expand into international markets. During the war, we are acutely aware that business is not only about money, dividends, and profits. It is also about creating jobs, respecting clients through unwavering product quality despite limitations, contributing to the psychological well-being and stability of people, and serving the greater good of the entire country. Additionally, business is about the community, which I hope participants will have the chance to build during their time in the program,” noted Taras Dobko, Rector of Ukrainian Catholic University.
“The first cohort of Stanford Ignite Ukraine exceeded our expectations, attracting nearly 1,000 entrepreneurs from across Ukraine. This reflects the strong demand for such programs, which offer the opportunity to join the Stanford GSB ecosystem and deeply rethink one’s business. With valuable insights from Silicon Valley experts, Ukrainian entrepreneurs have the chance to scale and enter new markets, opening up new horizons for growth,” said Ivan Petrenko, Executive Director of CfE Accelerator and Managing Partner of the Angel One Fund.
The program content is designed to provide participants with a comprehensive experience, including one week at the Ukrainian Catholic University, four weeks online, and a three-week visit and intensive classes on the Stanford GSB campus under the guidance and mentorship of leading faculty. Participants will also have the opportunity to apply their knowledge practically, working on team projects that will later be presented to investors, experts, and other entrepreneurs in Silicon Valley.
“We aim not only to share knowledge but also to inspire participants to create significant businesses that will have a real impact on their communities and the country as a whole. We are excited to see such a strong initiative in Ukraine and look forward to working with the next group of talented entrepreneurs,” noted Professor Yossi Feinberg, Stanford Ignite Faculty Director.
The idea for this educational opportunity for Ukrainians originated with Natalia Anon, a member of the board of the UCU Foundation and one of the patrons of the Stanford Ignite Ukraine program. The goal of Stanford Ignite Ukraine is to implement the acquired experience and realize ambitious ideas within existing enterprises in Ukraine.
“The Stanford Ignite Ukraine program offers entrepreneurs to gain world-class skills, empowering them to unlock their potential and establish valuable connections for international growth. We take pride in systematically supporting Ukrainian companies through various training initiatives, made possible by the USAID Competitive Economy Program. This contribution strengthens both businesses and the Ukrainian economy during this challenging time,” emphasized Olesya Zaluska, USAID Competitive Economy Program Chief of Party.
You can find the program description, selection criteria, registration form, and other details on the CfE Accelerator website.
The application deadline is October 15, 2024.
The USAID Competitive Economy Program in Ukraine (USAID CEP) supports Ukrainian businesses aiming to provide support for competitive industries and firms on Ukrainian and international markets, foster a better business enabling environment, and enabling Ukrainian companies to benefit from international trade.