Mykolaiv is developing a recovery strategy based on blue economy principles.

The southern Ukrainian city Mykolaiv is the first among Ukrainian cities to align economic development with the European approach to the blue economy – the sustainable use of water and marine resources for economic growth, enhancing living conditions, and creating jobs while preserving ecosystems.

“After the end of hostilities, the country will need new strategies. Therefore, we are already working out strategic plans for the development of our city’s economy, based on the principles of the blue economy. Mykolaiv can become a leader in this direction,” said the city’s mayor, Oleksandr Sienkevych.

The city, with support from UNDP and Denmark, is developing a strategic plan for post-war development. One of the first jointly prepared infrastructure projects – the Industrial Park and Water Palace educational space – is already seeking investors on the state’s DREAM platform.

All joint projects between Mykolaiv and the EU aim at transitioning small and medium-sized businesses to activities based on the principles of the blue economy. Seven Mykolaiv enterprises won the BOOST Innovation Challenge, receiving $10,000 each to implement their initiatives.