The 2026 edition runs under the overarching theme "Build Back Better", which serves as the guiding thread throughout the program — from strategic understanding to practical project development and international pitching.

This year's program is designed for ambitious young professionals, entrepreneurs, and founders who want to contribute to Ukraine's reconstruction through business, innovation, and cross-border cooperation.

Applications are now open.

Please note that the number of places is limited (up to 20 participants).

Application deadline: 8 May 2026

Apply now →REGISTER BY THIS LINK​.

What does "Build Back Better" mean?

Build Back Better is about more than rebuilding what was lost. It focuses on creating stronger, smarter and more resilient systems for the future.

Key elements include:

• Smarter infrastructure
• Sustainable energy systems
• Resilient industries
• Transparent governance
• Long-term economic value creation

The concept is widely used by international institutions, governments and development actors working on Ukraine's recovery.

Program Focus

YE 2026 is built around the sectors that will shape Ukraine's reconstruction and long-term resilience:

• Energy
• Dual-use and defence-related technologies
• Housing and construction
• Infrastructure
• Industrial development

Participants will explore how these sectors intersect with sustainability, security, innovation and international cooperation, with a strong emphasis on practical business opportunities rather than theory.

What Participants Gain

Participants will:

• Learn how to transform an idea into a structured business case
• Gain insight into Norwegian-Ukrainian business relations
• Understand the economic landscapes of both Ukraine and Norway
• Develop cross-cultural business competence
• Build a professional network across both countries
• Become part of the Young Entrepreneurs Alumni network

Program Structure

The program consists of three intensive modules connected through continuous project work.

Module 1 – Foundations & Context

Participants develop a strategic understanding of:

• Ukraine's reconstruction landscape
• International cooperation and recovery mechanisms
• Opportunities and challenges within key sectors

This module establishes the shared knowledge base and introduces the Build Back Better mindset.

Module 2 – From Ideas to Projects

Focus shifts to entrepreneurship and execution.

Participants work with:

• Business model development
• Market entry and international scaling
• Financing logic and investment readiness

During this phase, ideas are refined into concrete projects aligned with real reconstruction needs.

Module 3 – International Exposure & Pitching

The final module takes place in Warsaw during Rebuild Ukraine Conference, Europe's largest international event dedicated to Ukraine's reconstruction.

This arena gathers:

• Governments and international institutions
• Financial institutions and donors
• Corporations and investors
• Ukrainian and international businesses

Selected participants will have the opportunity to pitch their projects in an international setting, gaining exposure to partners, decision-makers and potential investors.

Why Join YE 2026?

• Clear sectoral focus aligned with Ukraine's reconstruction priorities
• A strong international dimension connecting Norway, Ukraine and Europe
• A program balancing strategy, entrepreneurship and practical experience
• Direct exposure to Europe's key reconstruction arena

Who Can Apply?

Young Entrepreneurs 2026 is designed for participants already engaged in business, entrepreneurship, or business development.

The program is relevant for applicants who either:

• Run a business within one of the program's focus sectors
• Have a concrete business idea related to reconstruction or resilience
• Work in companies operating in energy, infrastructure, construction, industry or dual-use technologies

Applicants should be motivated to:

• Work with real-world reconstruction challenges
• Contribute actively with their experience or ideas
• Develop projects with an international and cross-border dimension

Application Process

📅 Applications are now open

⏳ Deadline: 8 May 2026

The selection process is competitive and aims to identify candidates with:

• Strong motivation to work with reconstruction-related initiatives
• Interest in cross-border entrepreneurship
• A long-term perspective on Ukraine's economic development

Participation Fee

💰 Free of charge

NUCC will cover programme-related expenses through its Norad​ grants, including flight tickets, accommodation, meals, and social activities.

Participants are responsible for covering the following costs themselves:

• Transportation to and from airports
• Travel insurance
• Visa application fees (if applicable)
• Personal expenses

If selected, participants will be contacted by email.

Contact Persons

Maiia Stiupan

Office & Communications Manager

maiia.stiupan@nucc.no

Sofus Hanset

Senior Adviser in Energy

sofus.hanset@nucc.no

Important Information

* Ukrainians in Norway under temporary refugee protection are not able to participate in this program due to travel restrictions.

* The Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises against travel that is not strictly necessary to the regions of Volyn, Rivne, Lviv, Ternopil, Zakarpattja, Ivano-Frankivsk, and Chernivtsi.

* The Ministry also advises against all travel to the regions of Khmelnytskyi, Zhytomyr, Kirovohrad, Cherkasy, Vinnytsia, Kyiv region, and Kyiv city.

* The Ministry advises against all travel to the remaining regions of Ukraine and encourages Norwegian citizens to leave these areas.

‍