As Ukraine continues to face the devastating effects of war, the urgency for sustainable and community-driven reconstruction efforts has never been greater. In collaboration with key international partners, the Development Policy Foundation has spearheaded a transformative initiative to foster green, participatory, and energy-efficient urban regeneration in Ukraine’s war-affected towns. This project, commenced in July 2024 is designed to equip local civil society organizations (CSOs), NGOs, and public authorities with the tools and skills needed to develop innovative, low-carbon reconstruction solutions.
The project operates through a structured, multi-phase approach that engages local communities in a hands-on capacity-building process. Initially, selected civic-led partnerships will undergo training and workshops designed to refine their urban recovery ideas, incorporating smart, energy-efficient, and circular economy principles. Through co-design workshops and proposal development labs, participants will gain practical experience in structuring project proposals aligned with major funding programs such as Horizon Europe and LIFE. A significant focus is placed on fostering collaboration between civil society, local public authorities, and green technology startups to ensure the development of holistic, community-centered solutions.
A core component of the initiative is the Pitching and Matching Sessions, where selected teams present their projects to potential funding partners and international donors. By integrating data-driven urban planning techniques and IT-supported mapping tools, the project aims to enhance the feasibility and effectiveness of post-war reconstruction strategies. Moreover, through sustained mentorship and networking tracks, the initiative ensures long-term engagement and knowledge exchange among Ukrainian stakeholders and European counterparts, strengthening the country’s capacity to access and manage international development funds. The Nordic Council of Ministers plays a vital role in supporting these efforts, aligning the project with its Vision 2030 objectives of sustainability, innovation, and regional cooperation. By facilitating cross-border partnerships and knowledge sharing, the Nordic Council of Ministers helps to ensure that Ukraine’s reconstruction follows the best practices in green urban development and smart city planning.
Beyond immediate project deliverables, this initiative aims to create a ripple effect in Ukraine’s post-war landscape, fostering a culture of grassroots-driven innovation and self-reliance in rebuilding efforts. By leveraging Nordic expertise in sustainable urban development and harnessing Ukraine’s civic resilience, the project not only supports the country’s immediate reconstruction needs but also lays the foundation for a greener, smarter, and more inclusive urban future. This initiative demonstrates that sustainable recovery starts from within and benefits from international cooperation and support.