The Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine and the Ukrainian Startup Fund (USF) have officially launched Sandbox — a comprehensive support program for startups developing AI and blockchain-based solutions. The initiative provides teams with expert consultations and product audits designed to identify and resolve bugs, weak points, and compliance risks.

«Everything is under NDA. Only the startup has access to the results,» assures Mykhailo Fedorov, Minister of Digital Transformation.

What does Sandbox offer?

Legal assistance

Startups receive a full legal audit to assess compliance with national and international regulations on personal data protection, along with a comprehensive review of intellectual property (IP) assets.

The program offers:

• Recommendations for mitigating legal risks
• Guidance on implementing Privacy by Design and Privacy by Default principles
• Evaluation of the patentability of proprietary IP
• Development of an IP protection strategy
• Clear procedures for managing IP assets — all to support international market expansion

Business analysis

An in-depth evaluation of the startup’s business model, its maturity, monetization strategy, and financial planning. Startups receive a detailed conclusion with tailored recommendations based on audit findings.

Comprehensive AI product expertise

AI-focused teams gain access to:

• Assessment of data quality and model architecture
• Expert support in developing approaches for testing performance, fairness, and safety
• A strategy for risk monitoring and management
• A compliance audit with AI-related regulations, followed by expert recommendations

Blockchain technology audit

For blockchain-based solutions, the program provides:

• Evaluation of risks related to blockchain and/or smart contract usage
• Analysis of benefits enabled by blockchain integration
• Recommendations for minimizing potential risks and maximizing value from blockchain technologies

Who is Sandbox for?

• The program is designed for startups building innovative solutions in healthcare, education, defense, public services, and infrastructure.
• To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria:
  • Be registered in Ukraine
  • Develop products based on AI or blockchain technologies
  • Target the GovTech, MedTech, BioTech, AgroTech, EdTech, or DefenseTech sectors
  • Have at least a prototype or pilot version
• For early-stage projects, applicants must also present partially developed technical documentation and demonstrate backing from investors.

Startups can apply here

The Sandbox project is supported by the UK DIGIT initiative, implemented by the Eurasia Foundation, and funded by UK Dev.