Finland launches €37.3 million EU-funded initiative to support Ukraine's defense tech and reconstruction

The funding is part of the Strategic Investment and Support for Ukraine (SISU) programme, a joint initiative of Finland's Foreign Ministry and state-owned financing institution Finnvera.

The €37.3 million comes entirely from the EU's Ukraine Investment Framework and has been delegated to the Finnish ministry to administer.

The programme aims to help Ukrainian companies in defense, security and dual-use technologies — products that can serve both civilian and military purposes — expand internationally, access financing, manage risks and prepare for investment.

It also seeks to attract private investment into Ukraine and strengthen the country's long-term economic recovery.

Building on a €240 million guarantee agreement

The new funding complements a €240 million SISU guarantee agreement signed by Finnvera and the European Commission in October 2026.

That agreement is designed to make financing available for investments in Ukraine's critical infrastructure while creating opportunities for Finnish businesses to participate in reconstruction.

Unlike a direct grant, a guarantee helps reduce financial risks for lenders and investors, making projects easier to finance.

Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen said SISU combines Finnish business expertise, Ukraine's reconstruction needs and EU funding opportunities.

"Finland is committed to supporting Ukraine over the long term, with businesses playing a key role in the country's reconstruction and economic growth," she said.

Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Ville Tavio said the programme would offer financing and risk-sharing arrangements tailored to Finnish companies of different sizes seeking to enter the Ukrainian market.

The initiative is intended to support Ukraine's recovery while encouraging cooperation between Ukrainian and Finnish businesses in sectors considered critical to the country's future.