Why We’re Supporting Ukraine’s Startup Future

Annija Mežgaile, the CEO of TechChill

Over the past few years, we’ve watched Ukraine face extraordinary challenges, and yet, we’ve also witnessed something just as extraordinary: the unshakable resilience, creativity, and drive of its people. Behind the headlines is a country full of talent. Founders building products the world needs and teams innovating in circumstances most of us can’t imagine.

I believe in that potential with all my heart. Not because it’s a nice thing to say, but because I’ve met these people, listened to their visions, and seen the spark in their eyes when they talk about the future they’re determined to create. That’s why, at TechChill, we knew we had to do more than just cheer from the sidelines. We had to stand alongside them, not for a week, not for a headline, but for the long haul.

What We’re Creating Together

This is how TechChill Kyiv, Ukrainian Startup Growth Program, came to life. It’s not just an event. It’s a journey, designed to give Ukrainian founders the tools, connections, and confidence to scale internationally.

I’m proud to be working on this program with Techosystem, an NGO that unites ecosystem players to create better business conditions in Ukraine. Together, we believe in the power of worldwide collaboration and support.

Through the program, founders will refine their pitch, tell their story with impact, and most importantly, meet investors from around the world - opening doors to the next opportunities. Our goal is simple: to build a bridge that Ukrainian founders can walk to connect with global investors, partners, and communities.

Why This Matters to us in Latvia

Latvia and Ukraine share more than just geography. We share values - independence, resilience, and the belief that small nations can make a big impact. Since the start of the war, Latvia has stood with Ukraine not only in words, but in action.

In three years, Latvia’s aid has reached €938 million (0.7% of GDP), covering military and humanitarian support, assistance to Ukrainian civilians in Latvia, and funding for reconstruction and reforms.

We’ve sent over 3,100 cars in 200+ convoys, delivered 42 Patria armoured carriers, drones, and other equipment, committed €70 million in military aid this year, and are training up to 4,000 Ukrainian soldiers in 2025. Latvia will also continue dedicating no less than 0.25% of GDP annually to Ukraine’s defence.

This program is our way of extending that support into the future. Because while aid is crucial, so is opportunity. We believe that by helping Ukrainian founders grow their companies, we’re also helping to rebuild the economy, create jobs, and strengthen the ecosystem for years to come.

I want it to be a promise. A promise that Latvia will continue to stand with Ukraine, not only in times of crisis, but also in times of growth. A promise that the bridges we build today will carry ideas, partnerships, and friendships for decades.

To every Ukrainian founder reading this - We see you. We believe in you. And we can’t wait to see what you’ll build next.

More about the program