Ukraine's Technological Partnership with the EU: New Opportunities
Recent research reveals that Ukraine is capable of fulfilling nine critical technological needs of the European Union, which currently relies on Chinese and American solutions. This conclusion is drawn from the EU-Ukraine Digital Sector Interlinkages Report prepared by a consortium of Ukrainian and European IT clusters under the ITBridge project.
In an effort to reduce dependence on foreign technologies, the EU is investing billions through the European Chips Act. While many initiatives require time to implement, Ukraine can offer solutions immediately.
An expert group consisting of 33 specialists from 31 organizations was formed for the study, identifying two categories of critical technologies: the first includes Big Data & Analytics, Cloud, Edge & Fog Computing, Cybersecurity, IoT & Embedded Systems, Semiconductors & Microelectronics, recognized as vital for EU security. The second group encompasses Web Platforms & Applications, AI & ML, AR/VR/XR, 5G & Next-Gen Connectivity, Quantum Technologies, Unmanned Vehicles, Robotics & Automation, Enterprise Process Automation, which are essential for economic competitiveness.
According to the ITBridge study, Ukraine can partner with the EU in nine areas: Big Data & Analytics, Cybersecurity, Cloud, Edge & Fog Computing, IoT & Embedded Systems (critical), as well as Unmanned Vehicles, Web Platforms & Applications, AI & ML, Enterprise Process Automation, Robotics & Automation.
In 2024, the export of IT services from Ukraine is expected to reach $6.8 billion, accounting for 37.7% of total service exports. This indicates that the Ukrainian market is ready for collaboration with European businesses. There are currently 328,000 technical specialists in Ukraine, and over 20,000 new graduates enter the market annually, providing a stable talent pool.
It is also noteworthy that "Diia.City" operates with residents such as Samsung, SAP, Visa, and Nokia, showcasing the reliability of the regulatory environment. 93% of Ukrainian companies operate in international markets, which allows them to easily engage with foreign partners.
The research emphasizes the tools available for entering the EU market. Ukrainian companies have full access to the Single Market Programme, enabling participation in European initiatives alongside companies from EU member states. Additionally, Horizon Europe and Digital Europe Programme provide access to multi-billion euro budgets for funding joint research projects, innovations, and digitalization.
Moreover, there is the largest business support network in the world, the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN), which helps companies find international partners. Six European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIH) operate in Ukraine, offering small and medium-sized enterprises a range of services, including testing new technologies, training programs, and partner search.
There are also numerous opportunities for clusters. The European Cluster Collaboration Platform (ECCP) helps find partners among European clusters, while the EU-Ukraine Cluster Partnership Programme provides direct funding for collaborative projects between Ukrainians and Europeans.
In conclusion, the research emphasizes that cooperation with Ukraine should be based on partnership rather than outsourcing. A model of co-development with shared innovations, joint intellectual property, and long-term partnerships is proposed.
