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In this research the focus lies in examining the dynamics of civil resistance in Ukraine, with a particular interest in the role of innovation. Our research aims to explore civil resistance through the theoretical lenses of innovation, entrepreneurship, and ecosystem theories. As we have observed in previous crises, such as the recent pandemic, significant disruptive developments often arise in response to times of crisis. Our study delves into both societal and individual commitments to national defense during such crises. Civil resilience refers to the ability to maintain essential societal functions—such as supply chains, energy, shelter, healthcare, transportation, and information dissemination—while concurrently sustaining public morale and a collective will to defend. Our theoretical framework for understanding social innovation and creative resistance activities is grounded in the concepts of societal resilience, social innovation, and ecosystems. NATO defines societal resilience as a society’s capacity to resist and recover swiftly from major disruptions, including armed conflict, natural disasters, health crises, and critical infrastructure failures. This involves a comprehensive approach, combining both civil and military preparedness. I will not delve deeply into the distinction between resistance movements and civil resistance, but it is an important differentiation that our research addresses. Civil defense engages the entire society, focusing on collective resilience during periods of war or imminent threat. This concept extends beyond military involvement to encompass a wide array of societal actors, ensuring that essential functions continue to operate under crisis conditions. In Sweden, civil defense entails organized resistance efforts coordinated by governmental authorities. It is part of a broader, structured defense strategy that enables the population to contribute effectively to national defense. On the other hand, societal resilience also includes more spontaneous and organic initiatives. These emerge when individuals or groups independently respond to immediate needs or specific challenges, complementing the formal structures of civil defense. Our research investigates how civil resistance and societal resilience has supported Ukraine’s military efforts. Specifically, we aim to: • Examine the concepts of civil resistance and societal resilience and creative activities in Ukraine through the lens of innovation and entrepreneurship theory. • Analyse the interactions between individuals, organizations, and civil society using an ecosystem approach. Understanding the dynamics of ecosystems is crucial for preparing and adapting technologies, as well as for establishing parallel systems when existing infrastructures are compromised. Our methodology combines a thorough literature review with empirical data collected from Ukrainian informants. Key aspects of resistance and resilience through social innovation that we have identified include: • Endurance: The capacity to endure significant stress and change while maintaining essential societal functions. • Adaptation: The ability to self-organize and mobilize resources and innovations to respond to evolving challenges. • Agility: The need for rapid, flexible responses, as the aggressor’s tactics and strategies are continuously shifting. • Learning: The importance of being able to learn from experience from one day to the next day. In our ecosystem analysis, we focus on several components: • Actors: Individuals and organizations contributing to resistance and resilience efforts. • Social Innovation: The development of novel solutions to societal challenges. • Social Resilience: The ability of society to withstand and recover from disruptions. • Identified Purposes: Specific objectives that guide the actions of these actors within the ecosystem. At the current stage of our research, one significant finding has emerged: the importance of "dual purposes." This refers to systems and components within the ecosystem that serve both civilian and military functions. This dual-use capacity underscores the need for integrated approaches that enhance resistance and resilience across both domains. In this context, governance, institutional structures, and effective management play a critical role in ensuring that resources and capabilities can be mobilized flexibly to meet both civilian and military needs. But also, being able to take initiative and act locally without authority control.