Innovation, Sustainability, and Social Responsibility: Final Pitch Event of the 4th REDpreneurUA Cohort
On 14 October, the RED HUB business incubator hosted the final pitch event for the 4th cohort of the REDpreneurUA programme. Following three months of intensive training at the Ukrainian Future business incubator, 25 participants presented their business projects, each combining social impact, environmental responsibility, and innovation.
The REDpreneurUA programme is implemented by the Ukrainian Red Cross in partnership with the Austrian Red Cross, with support from the Neighbour in Need Foundation (Austria), and with the involvement of the Spanish Red Cross, which supported the training of the 4th cohort. The programme aims to empower entrepreneurs to develop innovative business ideas that drive positive change in communities and contribute to Ukraine’s recovery.
“With each cohort, we see a growing awareness of the importance of sustainable entrepreneurship. Participants are combining social purpose, environmental care, and modern technology. These are exactly the types of businesses that can become a driving force for Ukraine’s recovery,” said Olena Skrypnikova, Head of the Innovative Financing and Cash Transfer Programming Unit at the Ukrainian Red Cross.
Among the business ideas presented were innovative solutions in the fields of environmental protection, recycling, and sustainable development, including:
- a smart platform for waste recycling;
- a next-generation fitness app;
- a workshop specialising in upgrading and restoring automotive lighting systems;
- the production of high-quality pellet feed for poultry and livestock;
- the manufacture of children’s shoes designed to grow with the child — and many more.
The business plan presentations marked the culmination of the training programme, during which participants worked on financial models, marketing strategies, and the development of long-term visions for their ventures.
A jury selected 10 finalists to receive grant support for the implementation of their business plans. Among the winning projects were: VERBA, an intelligent waste recycling platform; WITERoK, a compact vertical wind turbine; StepGreen, paving tiles made from recycled plastic; Tobi, freeze-dried sugar-free snacks; MOSAЇKA, modular and customisable clothing; W.O.L.Y.A, adaptive underwear for people with limited mobility; Okhtyrka 3D LAB, a local 3D printing initiative; PSYCHO BALANCE, a VR-based mental health therapy project; LIFT. with me, bags made from upcycled materials; and Peony, biodegradable sanitary pads.
The REDpreneurUA programme continues to foster a community of socially responsible entrepreneurs who combine innovation, sustainability, and humanity – transforming business into a tool for caring for both communities and the environment.
