In Washington, D.C., a special event titled “Select Georgia: Taking Off from the U.S. – Ukraine Tech Launchpad” brought together representatives of Ukrainian and American businesses, governments, and the tech community. The event, part of the SelectUSA 2025 investment summit, was held at the Ukrainian House.
It was organized by the Gateway85 Community Improvement District (CID) in partnership with Gwinnett County (Georgia), Ukrainian companies DroneUA and Futurology Tech, and supported by the U.S. Department of Commerce and the U.S. Embassy in Ukraine.
Thirteen Ukrainian innovative companies participated, demonstrating Ukraine’s openness to investment and joint projects using cutting-edge technologies.
U.S. Deputy Secretary of Commerce Diane Farrell met with the companies, discussing opportunities to expand bilateral trade and investment.
The event aimed to broaden the access of Ukrainian tech firms to the U.S. market. Georgia—with its developed infrastructure, tech parks, and business incentives—positions itself as an ideal entry point for Ukrainian startups and enterprises.
“Ukrainians are exceptionally entrepreneurial, bold, and proactive. We value freedom and are ready to defend it. Entrepreneurship and innovation are our essence,” said Ukrainian Ambassador to the U.S. Oksana Markarova in her welcoming remarks.
Support for the initiative was also voiced by Elizabeth Schaefer, Deputy Executive Director of SelectUSA, who noted that the Trump administration sees foreign investment as key to a “Golden Age for America.”
Ukrainian company DroneUA, specializing in drones for agriculture, energy, and emergency response, is already strengthening its U.S. presence under the brand Futurology Tech. Co-founder Valerii Yakovenko emphasized, “Business is the best diplomacy. We are not only asking for support but are ready to invest, innovate, and create new opportunities.”
The panel discussion also featured Ellen Craft, Director of Georgia’s European Office, and Sergii Kiral, Deputy Mayor of Lviv.
Deputy Mayor Kiral presented Lviv as a dynamic city eager to partner with U.S. communities and companies. He noted that despite Lviv’s active international engagement, it still lacks a sister city in the U.S.—a situation he urged to change.
The event marked an important start for Ukraine’s participation in SelectUSA 2025, the largest U.S. investment forum, confirming that Ukraine is not only an aid recipient but also a strong player in the global innovation market.
During the summit, participants discussed AI, new technologies and education, innovation, and investment opportunities—key areas where Ukraine is ready to collaborate with business and local government leaders.
Photo: Kostiantyn Holubchyk