Real Impact in Ukraine: Innovation on the Battlefield and Beyond

During Oslo Innovation Week 2025, NUCC, Itera, Epicentr Group, and Tschudi Logistics Group joined forces for the breakfast seminar “Real Impact in Ukraine: Innovation on the Battlefield and Beyond.”

The event highlighted how the ongoing war in Ukraine has become an unexpected catalyst for innovation, resilience, and cross-border collaboration — showing how Norwegian and Ukrainian companies are creating real impact even in times of crisis.

“Innovation in Ukraine isn’t just about technology — it’s about survival,” said Kjartan Tveitnes, Managing Director of the Norwegian-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce (NUCC).
“After decades of stagnation, Ukraine will flourish when the war is won. The rebuilding has already begun — waiting for peace is not an option.”

With 240 member companies, 60% of which are Ukrainian, NUCC is witnessing record levels of bilateral business activity. Norwegian and Ukrainian partners are proving that resilience and innovation go hand in hand.

‍Epicentr Group, Ukraine’s largest retail chain, presented the story of BLAHO for Communities, a digital platform co-created with Itera. Born out of humanitarian needs during the war, the platform enables transparent, community-led reconstruction projects — combining technology and trust to deliver real results.

Tschudi Logistics Group, with long-standing operations in Odesa, shared how its team is tackling a new global challenge: GPS jamming and spoofing. Together with partners SGM Technology and NAL Research, they’ve developed a satellite-based system using Assured Positioning, Navigation and Timing (APNT) technology — protecting ships and crews against signal manipulation.

A recurring theme throughout the morning was the unique synergy between Norwegian structure and Ukrainian speed.

“When Norwegians and Ukrainians work together — one brings structure, the other brings speed. And somehow, it works perfectly,” said Olha Afanasyeva, Head of International Growth at Itera.

The seminar served as a reminder that innovation doesn’t pause in adversity — it often starts there. Through shared challenges, Norway and Ukraine are building the foundation for lasting partnerships and future growth.