Andriy Dovbenko is a Ukrainian-born UK-based early-stage investor focused on defence and agriculture solutions to accelerate the commercial potential of the startups in those sectors. He hopes to help Ukrainian startups achieve global impact, initially through access to the UK market while also discovering UK tech startups offering solutions that may benefit Ukraine.
Following a degree in jurisprudence from the National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy, Andriy started his career as a lawyer at the Big Four, eventually growing to become a managing partner at an international law firm,. He has also led technology investments in verticals such as fintech and agriculture. The combination of his technology investments and previous experience in the agricultural sector, has enabled Andriy to develop a particular understanding of how digital tools can be used to transform this industry.
Early Life and Education
Andriy Dovbenko was born in the city of Kalush, Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast, Ukraine. His early years were marked by a strong determination to excel academically. After completing his secondary education in Kalush, he embarked on his legal journey.
In 2007, Andriy graduated from the National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy, majoring in jurisprudence which set the stage for his future career.
Early Career
In 2006, Andriy secured a position as a lawyer at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Ukraine. During his tenure at PwC, Andriy’s reputation as a legal expert flourished and at the end of 2007 he was made an offer by Ernst & Young Ukraine where he was appointed Senior Lawyer. In this capacity, he managed complex projects in various sectors, becoming a trusted advisor to clients and leading a team of talented lawyers.
Entrepreneurial Journey
In 2011, Andriy made a decision to venture into business on his own terms. He embarked on a path of independent legal practice while providing services to the prestigious “Andreas Neocleous & Co” law firm in Cyprus as a preferred partner in Ukraine.
During several years Andriy worked under the franchise of Neocleous law firm in Ukraine until he exited this partnership with the view of establishing his own brand in the legal services market.
In 2017, Andriy established a new venture, becoming the Managing Partner of Evris law firm which was recognised as one the top 20 law firms in Ukraine.
Venture Investment
In 2018, Andriy Dovbenko turned his focus to investments, by launching EVRIS Invest and EVRIS Asset Management Company. He began investing in Ukrainian and international projects, focusing on IT and agriculture.
He has also led technology investments in verticals such as fintech. The combination of his technology investments and previous experience in the agricultural sector, has enabled Andriy to develop a particular understanding of how digital tools can be used to transform this
industry.
Philanthropy and Community Engagement
Andriy co-founded the charitable online platform Charitum, an innovative form of social journalism dedicated to philanthropy. He also actively supports various charitable initiatives at Kyiv Mohyla Academy and the Ukrainian Catholic University. With the start of the Russian war against Ukraine, Andriy has been actively supporting Ukrainian military battalions by providing military and humanitarian aid.
Personal Life
In 2019, Andriy and his family moved to London where he now lives with three children and his wife Anna Ogrenchuk.
Outside of fostering startup collaboration between the UK and Ukraine, Andriy is a history buff, with a keen interest in modern literature, and an avid football fan.