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Young Entrepreneurs 2026

Build Back Better

Young Entrepreneurs is a business-educational program by the Norwegian-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce (NUCC). The program aims to connect ambitious and business-minded individuals from Ukraine and Norway who share a passion for international business and entrepreneurship.

The 2026 edition runs under the overarching theme “Build Back Better”, which serves as a red thread throughout the entire program — from strategic understanding to practical project development and international pitching. This year's program is designed for ambitious young professionals and founders who want to contribute to Ukraine’s reconstruction through business, innovation, and cross-border cooperation.

What does Build Back Better mean?

Build Back Better is about more than rebuilding what was lost. It focuses on:

• smarter infrastructure
• sustainable energy systems
• resilient industries
• transparent governance
• long-term economic value

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 define Ukraine’s reconstruction and long-term resilience:

• Energy
• Dual-use & 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, not theory.

‍What Participants Gain

• Obtain the skills to transform an idea into a well-structured business case.
• Get insights into bilateral trade relations between Norway and Ukraine.

• Understand the structure and dynamics of both the Ukrainian and Norwegian economical situations

• Gain cultural insights into doing business in Norway and Ukraine
• Build a professional network that spans both countries
• Join the growing Young Entrepreneurs Alumni network and form lasting connections

‍Program Structure

The program is divided into three intensive modules, spread across the year and connected by continuous project work.

Module 1 – Foundations & Context

This module sets the strategic and economic foundation for the program. Participants gain a structured understanding of:

• The economic realities shaping Ukraine’s reconstruction
• The role of international cooperation in rebuilding efforts
• Key challenges and opportunities within priority sectors
  

This module establishes the common knowledge base and introduces the “Build Back Better” mindset that will guide all further work.

Module 2 – From Ideas to Projects

The second module shifts focus from context to entrepreneurship and execution. Participants work with:

• Business models and project development
  
• Market entry and cross-border scaling
  
• Financing logic and investment readiness
  

During this phase, participants refine their ideas into concrete, structured projects aligned with real reconstruction needs.

Module 3 – International Exposure & Pitching

The final module takes place in Warsaw, where the program culminates in participation at Rebuild Ukraine, Europe’s largest international conference dedicated to Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction.

Rebuild Ukraine is a high-level platform bringing together:

• Governments and international institutions
• Financial institutions and donors
• Corporations, investors, and solution providers
• Ukrainian and international businesses

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

‍Why YE 2026?

• A clear sectoral focus aligned with Ukraine’s real reconstruction priorities
• A strong international dimension connecting Norway, Ukraine, and Europe
• A balance between strategy, entrepreneurship, and real-world exposure
  
• A final stage that places participants directly inside one of the most important reconstruction arenas in Europe

Who can apply?

Young Entrepreneurs 2026 is aimed at participants who are already engaged in business or business development and who see clear relevance between their work and the Build Back Better concept.

The program is suitable for applicants who:

• Run an existing business with relevance to one or more of the program’s focus sectors
• Have a concrete business idea or project linked to reconstruction, resilience, or long-term development
• Work for a company operating in or targeting sectors aligned with Build Back Better, such as energy, infrastructure, construction, industry, or dual-use technologies

Applicants should be motivated to:

• work with real-world challenges and opportunities related to Ukraine’s reconstruction
• contribute actively with their own perspective, experience, or ideas
• develop or refine projects with an international and cross-border dimension‍
  

Application Process

🗓 Applications open in March 2026

The selection process is competitive and aimed at candidates with:

• Strong motivation to work with reconstruction-related projects
• Interest in cross-border entrepreneurship

A long-term perspective on Ukraine’s recovery and development

Contact Person

Maiia Stiupan
Office Manager
maiia.stiupan@nucc.no