Seven ways to boost your business in Ukraine

If you are looking for financial support to rebuild or restart your small business, several EU-supported initiatives can help.

One of the key opportunities is the Ukraine Investment Framework, which has launched a new call for proposals to provide indirect lending to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) through banks. This initiative aims to expand access to financing, especially for businesses operating in war-affected regions, as well as those founded by internally displaced persons (IDPs), veterans, and other groups impacted by the war, and supports sectors like manufacturing, agribusiness, energy, and digital. You don’t apply directly — just contact your local bank (e.g., Kredobank, ProCredit, Ukreximbank, or others working with EBRD/EIB) and ask about loan products supported by the EU or UIF. You can also check updates on EU4Business and Diia.Business or reach out to your local Business Support Centre (BISC) for advice on funding opportunities.

Other sources of financial assistance may include EU-funded programmes, grants from international organisations, and local business development funds. Be sure to explore options under EU4Business and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), which regularly offer financial and advisory support for SMEs in Ukraine. 

Ukrainian SMEs can access EU-backed loans and guarantees through various programmes designed to support business growth and recovery. One of the key initiatives is the EU4Business-EBRD Credit Line, part of the EU SME Competitiveness and Inclusion Programme in Ukraine. This programme, available through local partner banks such as OTP Bank, Kredobank, ProCredit Bank, Credit Agricole, Ukrgasbank, Privatbank, and Ukreximbank, offers favorable financing conditions for investments in energy efficiency, modern equipment, and compliance with EU standards.

Additionally, the EU4Business Guarantee Facility helps SMEs secure financing by reducing collateral requirements, making loans more accessible even in high-risk times. Another important initiative, EU Support for Ukrainian Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises, focuses on the recovery of war-affected businesses by providing credit guarantees through partner banks such as Kredobank and Privatbank.

To explore specific financing options, SMEs can check the loan and guarantee programmes offered by individual banks: Kredobank / ProCredit Bank / Credit Agricole / Ukrgasbank / Privatbank / Ukreximbank.

Organic Export, a leading Ukrainian honey exporter, utilized the EU4Business Guarantee to secure a €1 million loan. This funding helped them expand their capacity and increase honey exports to the EU by 25%.

How can I develop my business skills or receive strategy advice?

If you’re looking to improve your business skills or develop a growth strategy, several EU-supported initiatives in Ukraine can help. The Business Information Support Centre (BISC) Network, initially created with the EU support by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), helps SMEs to grow, improve their competitiveness, and integrate into regional and global markets. BISCs provide training, consulting, and networking opportunities to support business development. 

Another valuable resource is MEREZHA, an online platform for expert solutions launched by the EBRD in December 2019 with EU support. MEREZHA connects SMEs with reliable business experts who provide mentorship, professional advice, and tailored solutions for business growth. 

Additionally, programmes under the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN-Ukraine) offer training, networking, and advisory services to help SMEs expand their operations and access new markets.

With EU4Business support, Oksana Bas turned her passion for heritage into a sustainable tourism business by receiving expert advice, branding guidance, and financial assistance to develop a historical-ethnic estate in western Ukraine.

Are there international exchange opportunities for entrepreneurs?

Yes, Ukrainian entrepreneurs can benefit from several EU-funded international exchange opportunities to gain hands-on experience, expand their networks, and enhance their business skills. 

One of the key initiatives is the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs programme, which allows Ukrainian entrepreneurs to work alongside experienced business counterparts in the EU for up to six months. This exchange provides valuable insights into managing small businesses and developing international partnerships. 

Between 2009 and 2024, the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs (EYE) programme has facilitated over 12,700 business exchanges across Europe in more than 45 countries, with more than 11,800 completed. EYE has a high approval rate, with 98% of new entrepreneurs recommending it, and 92% of participants staying in touch after their exchange. Ukrainian entrepreneurs have actively participated in these exchanges, gaining valuable experience and fostering international partnerships. 

Another important opportunity is provided by the EU4Business: SME Recovery, Competitiveness and Internationalisation programme (finished in spring 2025), co-financed by the European Union and the German Government and implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH. One of its recent initiatives, the CONNECT: Export Readiness project, helps Ukrainian SMEs expand their presence in EU markets. In January 2025, CONNECT supported a study trip for 10 Ukrainian textile companies to Germany, allowing them to explore new export opportunities and strengthen international ties. 

With the support of the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs programme, Natalia – a single mother from Ukraine – launched a successful nail business in Lithuania.

How can I export my products to the EU or other markets?

Ukrainian SMEs looking to expand into the EU or other international markets can access targeted support through several EU-funded programmes. 

One of the key initiatives is the Ukraine-Ready4EU project, operating under the brand name Business Bridge. This programme provides financial support combined with expert advisory services to help up to 1,500 Ukrainian SMEs become more active in the EU Single Market. Participating businesses also receive access to tools and networks such as the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN), European Cluster Collaboration Platform (ECCP), and Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs (EYE), which facilitate partnerships and market integration.

Venko, a Ukrainian 3D wall panel designer, leveraged EU support to make significant strides in European markets, showcasing the effectiveness of export assistance programmes.

Are there tailored programmes for women entrepreneurs?

Yes, there are dedicated EU-supported programmes in Ukraine aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs and supporting the growth of women-led businesses.

The Business for Women initiatives offer targeted funding, mentoring, and business development services to help women-led SMEs strengthen their operations and achieve long-term growth. These programmes aim to create a more inclusive business environment and address specific challenges faced by female entrepreneurs. 

One of the key initiatives is the EU-EBRD Women in Business programme, which includes a web-based self-assessment tool designed specifically for women-led MSMEs. This tool helps users better understand their business operations, identify financing needs, and explore development opportunities. 

Through these programmes, women entrepreneurs can access a combination of financial and non-financial support tailored to their business needs, increasing their chances of success in both local and international markets.

How can I digitize my company?

Ukrainian SMEs seeking to digitise their operations can benefit from several EU-funded initiatives designed to support digital transformation and boost competitiveness.

The EU4DigitalUA and EU4Business:  SME Policies and Institutions Support (SMEPIS) will offer pilot projects and practical tools such as digitalization audits, IT advisory services, and access to online learning platforms. These resources help small and medium-sized businesses transition to digital platforms, streamline operations, and adopt more efficient business models. The opportunities will be published on the Diia.Business and other grant platforms for business.

In January 2025, the European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) Network officially expanded to include Ukraine, providing an additional layer of support for digital innovation. These hubs are designed to help local businesses, startups, and public institutions access advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), digital tools, and funding opportunities. To find a relevant EDIH near you and explore their services, visit the official EDIH catalogue.

Where can I learn about available support?

Ukrainian entrepreneurs can access EU grants and tenders through several platforms that regularly publish open calls and funding opportunities tailored to small and medium-sized businesses.

The EU4Business Ukraine website is a primary source of information, offering regular updates on new grant calls, tenders, and EU-funded programmes available to SMEs. In addition, platforms such as ProZorro and announcements from the EU Delegation to Ukraine serve as reliable channels for discovering public procurement and international donor opportunities.

The updated Diia.Business Portal, relaunched in 2024, also provides extensive, industry-oriented support. It features tailored sections including Diia.Business Start, Development, Export, Women, Veterans, and Digital — each offering guidance and tools suited to different business types and growth stages, including information on funding and market access.

To make the search for grants more efficient, the Grant Market portal (developed by Business Community Club in partnership with the Business Information Support Centre Network) aggregates business grants and offers advanced filters to help users quickly find the most relevant opportunities. 

Another helpful source is mbusiness.org.ua, which aggregates grant programmes from EU institutions, international donors, and support initiatives, offering brief descriptions and direct links to application guidelines.

The EU NEIGHBOURS East programme also regularly publishes opportunities for Ukrainian businesses. Subscribe to their alerts for all the latest information.

By combining these tools, SMEs can efficiently identify and apply for EU-supported funding and partnership opportunities that match their business goals.