The Invest in Bravery (IIB) conference, held in October 2024, in Kyiv Ukraine, made quite an impact on the innovation and investment in the country’s tech and defense sectors.
Despite the ongoing war with Russia, Ukraine’s economy has shown signs of recovery. With GDP growth projected at 3% for 2024 following a sharp contraction in 2022.
Events like IIB — which gathered a number of international investors, technology ecosystem influencers, as well as defence companies — could be crucial in attracting foreign investment to sustain the country’s economic momentum. International investors are increasingly recognizing Ukraine’s potential as both a strategic partner in Europe’s economic future and as a resilient market capable of thriving under adversity.
From October 17 to 19, IIB brought together an exclusive group of international investors, entrepreneurs, and government officials to support Ukraine’s burgeoning startup ecosystem amidst the ongoing war.
Moreover, it showcased Ukraine’s resilience and determination to rebuild its economy despite the challenges posed by the Russian invasion.
“Entrepreneurship During War”
Ukraine’s capital hosted a series of keynotes, panels, and workshops that highlighted the country’s potential as a hub for technological advancement.
The conference centered on themes of entrepreneurship during wartime, investments in emerging sectors, and defense technology.
Among the standout sessions was a panel on “Entrepreneurship During War,” which emphasized how Ukrainian women have stepped up to lead businesses and startups during these difficult times.
Delegates from across Europe, including a prominent delegation from Prague, traveled to Kyiv by train, according to a statement from the conference.
The Czech delegation included representatives from top venture capital firms such as Presto Tech Horizons, Tilia Impact Ventures, and Purple Ventures. They were joined by notable angel investors like Jim Huntley and Ryan Grant Little. Over the course of the conference, these investors had the chance to network with Ukrainian entrepreneurs and explore potential partnerships.
The event also featured a pitch competition with two tracks: general tech and dual-use technologies (those applicable to both civilian and military purposes). This competition provided Ukrainian startups with a unique opportunity to present their innovations directly to international investors.