Project description:

Challenge: Like other Ukrainian universities, KAI faces systemic barriers to innovation commercialisation: limited IP transfer rights, low investor interest due to high state university shares in spin-offs, inefficient research systematisation, and weak business ties. This reduces the potential of science and the knowledge-intensive economy. For KAI, strengthening innovation is critical for defence tech, electronics, and cybersecurity.

Solution: KPMG in Ukraine has developed a concept for KAI’s Science Park, a platform for collaboration between business, academia, and government aimed at overcoming barriers to innovation commercialisation. It defines a governance model, mechanisms for cooperation with business and for IP management. The Park brings together teams in UAVs, cybersecurity, telecommunications, and biotechnology, providing private partners with access to unique infrastructure for joint R&D projects and rapid market response.

Result: Thanks to the concept developed and implemented by KPMG in Ukraine, the KAI Science Park has become a model of digital transformation, turning the university into a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship. It drives high-tech innovation, offers acceleration programs and business services. Through private sector partnerships, it fosters startups, attracts investment, and creates spin-offs, strengthening science in Ukraine’s innovation ecosystem.

Partners:

State University “Kyiv Aviation Institute” (KAI), Abt Global, UK International Development

Category: Good Governance

Company: KPMG in Ukraine

About the company: 

KPMG in Ukraine is a member of the global network of independent KPMG firms that provide audit, tax, and advisory services. Across 142 countries and territories, KPMG employs more than 275,000 partners and professionals. Operating in Ukraine since 1992, KPMG has offices in Kyiv and Lviv, delivering audit, tax, accounting, and financial advisory services to leading Ukrainian and international organisations.