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Ukraine Reconstruction Market Brief - April 2026

01

Edito

Editorial – April 2026

This April issue marks a significant milestone for our publication.

After several months of work, adjustments, and discussions with our members and partners, our newsletter is evolving to become the Ukraine Reconstruction Market Brief. This is more than just a name change; it is a shift in ambition.

As the reconstruction of Ukraine enters a more concrete phase of structuring, our objective is clear: to provide you with a more operational, targeted, and directly useful resource for your business activities. Moving beyond analysis, our goal is now to help you take action.

This first issue of the new format reflects that commitment. Inside, you will find concrete opportunities, accessible funding, territorial spotlights, such as our focus on Lutsk, and insights from key players at the heart of reconstruction mechanisms.

We took a little more time than anticipated to launch this new version. This delay was intentional. It reflects our collective standard: to produce content that rises to the challenge: reliable, structured, and genuinely valuable for companies looking to position themselves today.

One thing is certain: the reconstruction of Ukraine will be neither linear nor uniform. It will be progressive, sector-specific, and at times complex, but it is already underway. It opens up considerable perspectives for companies capable of engaging with methodology, local understanding, and a long-term vision.

This is precisely the role the CCIFU intends to play: serving as a trusted platform, a strategic entry point, and an accelerator for those who wish to participate in this dynamic.

We hope this new format fully meets your expectations. As always, it remains a work in progress: your feedback will be essential as we continue to improve it.

Enjoy the read!

 

Business opportunities

02

Open funding 

 

 

EIC Accelerator (Horizon Europe)  

In a landscape where innovation plays a pivotal role in the reconstruction and modernization of Ukraine, the EIC Accelerator stands as one of the most powerful European funding mechanisms for supporting technology companies.

Designed for startups and innovative SMEs, this program facilitates the transition from innovation to market entry by combining grants and equity investments. It specifically targets high-potential deep tech projects capable of providing concrete solutions in strategic sectors such as energy, industry, infrastructure, and the environment.

For companies already positioned in the reconstruction effort or those looking to enter the market this represents a major opportunity to fund development while accelerating deployment across Ukraine and Europe.

Funding body: European Innovation Council (EIC) / European Commission

Available funding:

  • Grant: Maximum €2.5M
  • Equity: €1M to €10M
  • Blended finance available

Eligible entities: Startups, innovative SMEs, and small Mid-caps (up to 499 employees).

Project type: High-growth "Deep Tech" innovations that have reached the prototype stage (TRL 5/6) and aim for rapid market introduction (TRL 9). No predefined thematic priorities; open to all technological sectors.

Application deadlines:

  • Step 1 (short proposal): Open continuously until December 17, 2026.
  • Step 2 (full proposal): Upcoming cut-off dates: May 6, July 8, September 2, and November 4, 2026.

→ Direct link to apply:  EIC Accelerator

03

Act now

 

Regional focus – Lutsk 

________________________________________________________________________

Why a regional focus in this newsletter?

The reconstruction of Ukraine is not only happening at the national level. It is being built territory by territory, with very specific priorities, stakeholders, and opportunities at the local level.

The objective of this focus is simple:

→ Identify where the projects are located.

→ Understand the specific needs of local authorities.

→ Detect operational entry points for your company.

Every region featured is a gateway to the Ukrainian market. Today, Lutsk serves as a particularly relevant example.

Key figures

 

236 000

inhabitants  

100 km

from the EU border (Poland) 

382 km²

surface area 

4

international donors 

Presence of major companies with foreign investment: Modern-Expo, Kromberg & Schubert, Terichem Tervakoski, Tatrafan, SKF Ukraine. 

Identified projects and needs

Energy and heating Modernization of heating systems and energy infrastructure (energy efficiency, alternative energy sources, cogeneration)
Industrial development Development of industrial parks and production sites (engineering infrastructure preparation, resident attraction) 
Transport and logistics Renewal of transport and logistics infrastructure (road networks, public transport, e-mobility)
Digital transformationDigitalization of urban management – Smart City (surveillance, analytics, and resource management systems)
Sustainable development "Green reconstruction" projects (renewable energy, thermal renovation of buildings, emission reduction) 
Public services Development of communal infrastructure (water supply, sanitation, waste management) 

Why Lutsk?

Located just 100 km from the Polish border, Lutsk is directly connected to European logistical corridors. This proximity makes it a strategic base for companies wishing to operate in Ukraine while securing their supply chains.

The city relies on a well-structured industrial fabric (mechanical engineering, agri-food, light industries) and a talent pool that can be mobilized immediately, thanks to seven higher education institutions, including two national universities.

Above all, Lutsk stands out for its proactive approach:

Openness to international partnerships.

Mobilization of external funding.

A clear desire to accelerate concrete projects right now.

What does this mean for your company?

Lutsk is not just a market to "watch." It is a territory where action is possible today.

  • Identified projects
  • Clearly expressed needs
  • Local authorities open to international partners.
  • Strategic positioning at the gates of the European Union.

Positioning yourself now means staying one step ahead.

How to take action with the CCIFU?

Looking to go further with this data? The CCIFU provides concrete support to help you transform these opportunities into projects.

We can help you:

  • Identify the right contacts in Lutsk (local authorities, agencies, industrial partners).
  • Qualify ongoing projects and their maturity level.
  • Organize targeted introductions and meetings (on-site or remote).
  • Secure your market approach (regulatory framework, reliable partners, offer structuring).
  • Prepare a field mission or local establishment.

Operational contact

To initiate a process or explore these opportunities further: 

👉 Pascal Hieronimus – Head of Business Services – ccifu@ccifu.com.ua

Next Step: A simple 30-minute exchange will allow you to:

  1. Validate the relevance of your positioning.
  2. Identify concrete short-term opportunities.
  3. Define a roadmap tailored to the Ukrainian market.

Association presentation – Aide Médicale & Caritative France-Ukraine (AMCFU) _________________________________________________________________________

AMCFU is a French humanitarian association founded in 2014 to support populations affected by the war in Ukraine. 

 

12M€

in equipment delivered 

31

humanitarian convoys 

100+

facilities served 

Mission

Supporting the Ukrainian medical sector (hospitals, centers for the disabled), first aid training, infrastructure projects (energy and water), and medical knowledge exchange.

Current needs

  • Medical Supplies: First aid kits (tourniquets), medications, ambulances.
  • Energy Equipment: Generators, solar panels.
  • Drinking Water: Filtration solutions, water towers, treatment stations.

Recommendations for companies

→ 60% tax deduction (Anti-Waste Law): All in-kind donations of French stocks qualify for a tax reduction equal to 60% of their value. This applies to any French manufacturer or distributor.

→ Secure procurement process: Mandatory competitive bidding (minimum of 2 providers) and Board of Directors validation.

Why are we highlighting this initiative?

The reconstruction of Ukraine does not rely solely on large-scale infrastructure projects. It is also built on concrete, immediate actions that address the direct needs of people and territories.

By highlighting initiatives like AMCFU, the CCIFU aims to build bridges between humanitarian commitment and corporate mobilization.

For French economic players, this is not just about financial contributions; it is about engaging in a structured and effective approach: valuing surplus stock, making in-kind donations, or providing equipment and expertise within a secure and regulated framework.

Partnering with these types of organizations means taking concrete action today while contributing to the overall effort of resilience and national reconstruction.

→ Contact:amc(@)ukr.fr

 

04

Interview Flash

Serhii Sukhomlyn
Head of the State Agency for the Restoration and Development of Infrastructure in Ukraine

“Reconstruction will not be immediate, but the opportunities for European companies are already very concrete.”

According to the RDNA5 report, war-related damages have reached $588 billion. In this context, Ukraine's reconstruction is organized around clear operational priorities for 2026.

According to Serhii Sukhomlyn, three key areas stand out particularly for French companies:

  • Energy and critical infrastructure resilience: massive needs for generators, decentralized production solutions, and autonomous heating systems.
  • Transport and logistics infrastructure: specifically roads, bridges, and the modernization of border crossing points, which are essential for economic continuity.
  • Water and Sanitation: The imminent launch of structural projects, including large-scale wastewater treatment plants in Mykolaiv that already integrate European technologies.

Another major development: Since January 2026, Ukraine has adopted European standards (EN) and the EU Construction Products Regulation, significantly facilitating market access for French companies.

Finally, new procurement mechanisms are being deployed, including open framework agreements that allow for the selection of companies based not only on price but also on their expertise and the quality of their solutions.

Key takeaways for your company

  • Concrete projects are already being launched.
  • The regulatory framework is rapidly aligning with European standards.
  • New bidding procedures are simplifying the entry process for international players.

The time to position yourself is now.

Read the full interview 

👉 Find the complete interview with Serhii Sukhomlyn (2026 priorities, accessing tenders, transparency, and advice for businesses) on our website: 

Read the full interview

 

 Reconstruction news 

05

Press review & key figures 

  • Macro

+2,0%

Real GDP growth in 2025. After a slow start, growth accelerated sharply to reach +3.0% by year-end. 

+2,5%

Ukrainian GDP growth projected by the EBRD for 2026 (assuming the conflict continues), with an acceleration to +4.0% expected in 2027.

7,4%

Inflation rate in January 2026, showing a significant decline.

€110 milliard

Total external funding committed for 2026-2027.

Source:  EBRD’s Regional Economic Prospects

  • EU unveils new €1.5 billion investment boost to stimulate recovery, reconstruction, and modernization in Ukraine.

The sixth steering committee of the Ukraine Investment Framework (UIF) has approved a new program of eight projects designed to help Ukraine address its most urgent economic and social challenges. These programs, valued at €1.5 billion and aimed at unlocking €3.4 billion in new investments, will provide support to vital sectors such as energy, education, connectivity, agriculture, small businesses, and the construction of shelters in schools.

 

Learn more

Source: European Commission 

  • CEB announces an additional €120 million for housing and micro-enterprises in Ukraine

The Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB) is granting two new loans to Ukraine. An additional €100 million loan for the HOME program will continue to support the national compensation mechanism for residential properties destroyed by the war. A €20 million loan will support access to affordable financing for micro-enterprises and small farms operating under the exceptionally difficult conditions of the Russian invasion. 

Learn more

Source : CEB

 

Ukraine: practical tips

06

Travel advice

The security situation in Ukraine remains challenging but managed. It is crucial to understand that Russian strikes can occur across the entire country. We strongly recommend that you do not ignore air raid sirens and stay informed through official government channels. 

Tip: To track alerts, manage power outage schedules, or locate the nearest shelter, download the Kyiv Digital app. It is available in English and allows you to register with an international phone number.

Useful WhatsApp groups:UA Air Force, SPRAVDI, Ukraine.ua, Suspilne

French nationals can enter Ukraine without a visa for stays of up to 90 days.

Transport

With airspace closed since February 2022, the simplest option is to fly to a neighboring country and then reach the capital by train (from Chelm, Warsaw, or another city). Please note: demand for these trips is very high.

For train ticket reservations, it is strongly advised to book in advance:

  • In France: Use the SNCF Connect app to manage your travel to European hubs or airports.
  • In Poland: The PKP Intercity app is the go-to for long-distance travel. For regional connections or to compare bus and train options, the KOLEO app is also very efficient and intuitive.
  • In Ukraine: For specific journeys between Poland and Ukraine, use the official app of the Ukrainian railway company, Ukrzaliznytsia (available in English).

Taxi services in Ukraine

Urban transport apps work very well in major Ukrainian cities.

  • Bolt: Very widespread; it is often the fastest option with many available drivers.
  • Uklon: A reliable local Ukrainian app.
  • Uber: Also available in major cities like Kyiv or Lviv, though the fleet is sometimes less dense than Bolt's.

Daily life and restrictions

  • Curfew: A curfew is in effect throughout the country. In Kyiv, it runs from 00:00 to 05:00. During this interval, it is strictly forbidden to be on the street without a special permit.
  • Energy: Depending on the evolution of the situation, power outages are possible.

We recommend that you always carry your identity documents with you.

Business travel and insurance

For any business trip, it is mandatory to take out insurance that includes war risks. To determine which type of coverage meets your needs, we invite you to watch our dedicated webinar on this subject.

To define the insurance policy that is right for you, you can contact:

07

Business tips - Legal corner

Mandatory shelters in new construction 

On March 6, 2026, the President of Ukraine signed the Law of Ukraine No. 4778-IX of February 10, 2026, which represents the most comprehensive update to Ukraine's civil protection system since 2013. The Law establishes the obligation to construct protective structures for a wide range of new construction projects. These new requirements apply only to projects for which the building permit was obtained after the law comes into force (i.e., after September 8, 2026).

Administrative simplification

Since February 27, 2026, it is no longer necessary to seek approval for environmental protection plans, measures for the protection of the population and territories against emergency situations, or standards for the maximum allowable impact of physical and biological factors from stationary pollution sources on atmospheric air.

Industrial modernization by 2030

The Ukrainian government has launched a State program supporting the adoption of Best Available Techniques (BAT) in three priority sectors: steelmaking, intensive livestock farming, and energy (installations ≥50 MW). Funding mechanisms include funds from international organizations, affordable 5-7-9% loans, as well as credits from the State Fund for Decarbonization and Energy-Efficient Transformation. 

Source : Arzinger

 

The CCIFU as a platform 

08

Why join the CCIFU 

 

Joining the French-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce means establishing yourself in Ukraine with a trusted local partner at the heart of a dynamic network of nearly 130 French and international companies already active in the market.

In a rapidly transforming environment, the CCIFU supports you in securing your approach, accelerating your development, and connecting you with the right contacts at the right time.

Each year, the Chamber organizes nearly 60 events: sectoral meetings, conferences, professional committees, and networking events. These are concrete opportunities to understand the market, share feedback, and develop business opportunities.

Concrete Benefits for Members:

One day of Business Support Services offered to every new member

Access to high-level meetings in a small-group format

Integration into an active network of French companies already established (direct contacts, partnership opportunities, field reports)

Preferential rates on the Let’s Rebuild Ukraine study

Preferential rates with our partners (particularly in the hotel industry)

Participation in sectoral committees (HR, agriculture, businesswomen, etc.)

Increased visibility via our communication channels and events

Why Now? 

The reconstruction of Ukraine is already underway. It is being structured, financed, and organized today. 

The companies present now will be the ones that understand the market, build key relationships, and seize the most strategic opportunities.

Do not let this window of opportunity close.

DOWNLOAD THE MEMBERSHIP FORM

 

09

Agenda CCIFU 

📌 Women Business Committee Meeting – members only
May 7 | 🕧 9:30 – 11:30 | 📍 Kyiv


📌 Exclusive meeting with the Business Ombudsman of Ukraine – members only
May 7 | 🕧 17:00 – 20:00 | 📍 Kyiv


📌 HR Committee Meeting – members only
May 21 | 🕧 9:00 – 12:00 | 📍 Kyiv


📌 Conference: “Ukraine: When Technology Accelerates Reconstruction”
May 27 | 🕧 9:00 – 14:00 | 📍 Kyiv


📌 Afterwork & Sports Challenge Awards Ceremony – members only
May 28 | 🕧 18:00 – 21:30 | 📍 Kyiv


📌 Afterwork with the “Children of Heroes” Foundation – members only
June 3 | 🕧 18:30 – 21:00 | 📍 Kyiv


📌 Women Business Committee Meeting – members only
June | 📍 Kyiv


📌 Ukraine Evening at Vivatech
June 16 | 🕧 18:00 – 22:00 | 📍 Paris


📌 Music Day Celebration
June 18 | 🕧 18:00 – 22:00 | 📍 Kyiv


📌 Women Business Awards Ceremony
July 9 | 🕧 17:00 – 21:00 | 📍 Kyiv


📌 Beaujolais Nouveau Charity Evening
November 19 | 🕧 18:00 – 22:00 | 📍 Kyiv

 

DOWNLOAD THE MEMBERSHIP FORM

 

10

CCIFU news: update on "Let’s Rebuild Ukraine" 

Reconstruction needs continue to grow; according to the RDNA5, they have now reached 588 billion dollars. In this context, the CCIFU is launching the 3rd update of Let's Rebuild Ukraine, its tool designed to facilitate and secure the development of European companies in the building and construction sectors in Ukraine.

What the study contains:

  • Over 280 private Ukrainian companies listed, covering the entire value chain.
  • Designed for suppliers of products and solutions, investors, or any company looking for local partners.
  • A concrete solution for accessing the Ukrainian market.

Do not miss the opportunity to connect with local players at the heart of the reconstruction and to contribute today.

For any questions or to schedule a discussion, please do not hesitate to contact Pascal Hieronimus (ccifu@ccifu.com.ua), our Head of Business Support Services.

 

DISCOVER THE FIRST PAGES OF THE STUDY HERE

 

 

 

 

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