The project is being implemented through a collaboration between the business incubator of the Junior Academy of Sciences of Ukraine Ukrainian Future, Halmstad University (Sweden), and Lviv Institute of Management (Ukraine), with financial support from the Swedish Institute (Sweden). It is part of the research program “ProActS” and is coordinated by Henrik Barth, a Associate Professor at Halmstad University.
“CRAFT” (Co-cReating vAlue For enTrepreneurial engagement in Ukraine) focuses on developing and implementing innovative technological solutions for small and medium-sized farms and agribusinesses. The project is based on an in-depth study of the state and challenges of the agricultural sector using the design thinking methodology, leveraging prototyping lab capabilities, and creating solutions that foster the transition to sustainable production and the recovery of Ukraine’s agricultural industry.
The challenges identified during the first phase of the “CRAFT” project will serve as the foundation for an international hackathon organized by Ukrainian Future. During the hackathon, students, entrepreneurs, and researchers from Ukraine and Sweden will collaborate to develop innovative ideas. The best ideas will receive expert support from the business incubator to be transformed into real solutions, while UF FabLab and the prototyping labs at Halmstad University will serve as testing grounds for prototype development.
Henrik Barth, Associate Professor in Innovation Management, will oversee the “CRAFT” project, providing expert guidance at all stages of its implementation. His experience in introducing innovative business models, teaching entrepreneurial innovation, and managing international research projects will help adapt global best practices to the Ukrainian context.
“The international partnership within the ‘CRAFT’ project opens new opportunities for the innovative development of Ukraine’s agricultural sector. By combining the expertise and resources of Swedish and Ukrainian institutions, we can create not just technological solutions but also a foundation for sustainable business and the transition of companies to circular economy principles, addressing the challenges of the future,” said Iryna Bystrova, Head of the Ukrainian Future business incubator.