In March 2022, the Lviv IT Cluster and the SpaceX division launched a joint initiative to provide the critical infrastructure of western regions of Ukraine with a backup source of internet supply. During this time, the Cluster community purchased and transferred over 400 Starlink terminals for the needs of the critical infrastructure of the western regions of Ukraine. In October, Lviv IT Cluster has announced that the work on the project continues – the association plans to purchase a new batch of Starlink terminals for IT companies.
The first batch of Starlink terminals (a total of 25 terminals) was transferred to Lviv Regional Military Administration in March. Strategically important enterprises and institutions – communal services, medical institutions, rescue services, security services, etc. received the terminals.
“We started this initiative because we didn’t want the rear to claim the Starlink terminals the state received. They are much more necessary on the frontline and in liberated cities. Therefore, Lviv IT Cluster got in touch with SpaceX. Since many people have relocated to the western regions of Ukraine, internet access for critical infrastructure facilities is extremely important. It is also a matter of business stability – it is important for foreign clients to know that the company has a backup connection if necessary,” says Stepan Veselovskyi, CEO of the Lviv IT Cluster.
In October, Lviv IT Cluster received an exclusive Angel account from SpaceX. This type of account gives the right to purchase large batches of terminals directly from SpaceX with the RV tariff plan and an option to create separate accounts for users of such terminals independently. We are the first organization in Europe to receive such an account.
Only Lviv IT Cluster member companies have the opportunity to purchase large batches of Starlink terminals to provide their company with a backup connection. To learn more about the initiative, as well as other benefits of joining the association, contact Ilona Palamar: ilona.palamar@itcluster.lviv.ua
