Research
AI ECOSYSTEM OF UKRAINE: TALENT, COMPANIES, AND EDUCATION Date of publication: June 19th, 2024
In collaboration with the investment group Roosh and supported by the Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine, we’ve explored Ukraine’s artificial intelligence ecosystem. Our aim is to present the current market state, highlight key industry trends, identify specialist needs, and provide a foundation for strategic decision-making at the state level.
Our AI market overview includes surveys from AI specialists and insights from top experts driving the industry. Let’s explore and advance AI together, here in Ukraine.
MAIN FIGURES
AI/ML specialists in Ukraine
active AI companies
in venture investments attracted by Ukrainian AI companies in 2023
CONCLUSIONS
Over the past decade, Ukraine’s IT industry has seen significant growth, and with it, the artificial intelligence sector has flourished. The number of AI/ML specialists has increased fivefold, and IT companies have doubled in number.
However, the war and associated factors have hindered AI development in Ukraine. The migration of specialists abroad has led to a domestic talent shortage. Despite this, the number of defense tech startups utilizing AI solutions has risen notably since the onset of the full-scale war.
In 2023, funding for Ukrainian AI startups increased, reflecting global trends. Both domestic and international accelerators are playing a role in driving the industry’s growth.
Despite financial limitations, loss of talent, and the need for educational reform, Ukraine’s AI industry holds great promise and could become a driving force for the country’s future innovative development.
KEY INSIGHTS
TALENT
The most common roles among professionals are Data Scientists and ML Engineers, making up 63% of all specialists in the industry. These fields offer the highest salaries among all IT specialties in the country.
COMPANIES
The number of IT companies has doubled over the last 10 years, and the number of companies working in AI reached 243 in 2023. Compared to the rest of Europe, Ukraine boasts a higher concentration of AI startups in marketing, gaming, and business software.
EDUCATION
Ukrainian education in AI needs new personnel and financial support. The main hurdles are uncompetitive salaries for educators and the lack of financial autonomy for educational institutions. Collaboration between universities and AI companies in training new specialists will be crucial for advancing AI education.
CHALLENGES AND PERSPECTIVES
The AI sector in Ukraine has significant potential, but several challenges need to be addressed. These include the ongoing conflict, lack of consolidation at the business-government or inter-business level, and more.
Nevertheless, Ukraine’s strong technological expertise and successful track record in creating global companies are undeniable advantages for the future development of the artificial intelligence sector.
