YEP Accelerator (implemented by the NGO “Platform of Innovative Partnership”) has opened its call for applications for Beyond the Thesis 3.0, a commercialisation programme for deep tech developments by Ukrainian SMEs, with WIN2EDIH as a partner of the programme. Applications were open from 5 to 30 August 2026.

The programme is designed for teams with deep tech solutions at TRL 5+ that are already registered as sole proprietors or companies and ready to turn their technology into a scalable business. Participation is free, and 6 teams are selected to join the programme.

The core programme runs from 14 September to 12 November 2026 and combines individual coaching, expert workshops, a Mentor Day, international matchmaking, and a final Demo Day. Participants work on defining target customer segments, a unique value proposition, go-to-market strategy, investment readiness, and their final pitch.

Programme details: Beyond the Thesis 2026 Notion page
Application form: apply here

The “Deep Tech Commercialisation Programme for SMEs” initiative is implemented under the project “Digital Transformation of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in the Eastern Partnership Countries” (DT4SME), funded by Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, with WIN2EDIH as a programme partner.

Teams additionally get access to international expert matchmaking through University of Cologne / Gateway Excellence Start-up Center contacts, as well as partners from the European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIH) network in other countries.

Beyond the Thesis 3.0 is already the programme’s third cohort. Its content was shaped most by the experience of alumni from the first two cohorts — teams InnoHub, Sirocco Energy, SAFIS.AI, VALORIA, and NEIAS — who shared their challenges during an Alumni Growth Session in August 2026.