Defence Builder accelerator appoints new CEO and transforms strategy: full details

Ukrainian defence startup accelerator Defence Builder has announced strategic changes in its leadership. Kateryna Bezsudna is stepping down as CEO while retaining her role as co-founder. The accelerator will now be led by Line Rindvig from Denmark, marking a shift towards greater international collaboration.

Over the past three years, Rindvig has been engaged in volunteer work in Ukraine. According to Defence Builder, she brings extensive management experience from the European music industry and, since 2022, has focused her efforts on supporting Ukraine. “Line has worked on logistics, coordinated humanitarian and military aid, developed strategic partnerships, and led advocacy initiatives to raise international awareness about Ukraine’s defence,” reads the official press release obtained by Defender Media.

Defence Builder was founded in 2023 by Sigma Software Labs, the Kyiv School of Economics, and Buntar Aerospace. Bezsudna has served as its CEO since its inception. She explained that now is the right moment to make room for new energy and leadership to continue the mission of the project. “My commitment to the defence sector remains unchanged, and I will continue my path in a new role,” she added.

Rindvig’s appointment marks a new stage of Defence Builder’s development, with plans to scale operations across Europe and partner countries, strengthen cooperation with leading universities and research institutes, attract top academic talent, and expand its international investment community. “Our focus now is on engaging international partners, opening new opportunities for investors, and building a joint ecosystem that strengthens global security,” said Daria Yaniieva, co-founder and member of the Defence Builder board.

At the same time, the accelerator will continue working with startups in Ukraine. The team is preparing for the launch of its third acceleration batch, and startups can already apply and join the waiting list for Batch 3 via the link.