UMAEF and Startup Moldova Launch Second Edition of the Investment Readiness Program

More than 50 founders, investors, and innovation ecosystem leaders gathered on June 15 for the launch of the second edition of the Investment Readiness Program (IRP 2.0), an initiative implemented by Startup Moldova with the support of the Ukraine-Moldova American Enterprise Fund (UMAEF). The program is designed to help high-potential startups strengthen their investment readiness, connect with international investors, and accelerate global growth.

The launch event brought together entrepreneurs, development partners, investors, and ecosystem stakeholders committed to advancing Moldova’s startup ecosystem and expanding access to international capital. Opening remarks were delivered by Elizabeth Lawrence, Acting Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Moldova, who highlighted the United States’ longstanding commitment to supporting entrepreneurship and economic development in Moldova.

For the second consecutive year, UMAEF is supporting the Investment Readiness Program as part of its broader efforts to foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and access to capital.

“Access to international capital is essential for Moldovan startups seeking to scale,” said Stella Jemna, UMAEF Country Representative for Moldova. “Last year, the program helped attract international, including American, investment into Moldovan companies. Through IRP 2.0, we are continuing to build stronger connections between entrepreneurs and investors, creating new pathways for growth, innovation, and cross-border collaboration.”

The new edition builds on the strong results of the inaugural program, during which participating startups secured more than $2.4 million in investment and grant funding while conducting over 700 one-on-one meetings with regional and international investors. These achievements reflect both the growing maturity of Moldova’s startup ecosystem and increasing international investor interest in the country’s emerging technology companies.

IRP 2.0 consists of two complementary tracks. Investment Academy will equip more than 50 founders with practical skills in fundraising, investor relations, financial modeling, and international market expansion. Scale2US, the program’s second component, is an intensive track designed to help startups prepare for entry into the U.S. market and connect with American investors and partners.

Through initiatives such as the Investment Readiness Program, UMAEF continues to strengthen Moldova’s innovation ecosystem by expanding access to global markets, increasing investment opportunities, and supporting entrepreneurs building internationally competitive companies from Moldova.