EVERY CRISIS IS AN OPPORTUNITY

How can Ukrainian businesses not only “stay afloat” during the storm but also grow and scale in these challenging times?
What should a company or project look like for a donor or investor to want to fund it?
And why is now the perfect moment for women’s entrepreneurship?

“The most important thing is the quality of work and a personalized approach — the results will speak for themselves.”

In just our first year of operation, we attracted 137 million UAH in grant funding for Ukrainian companies, 90% of which are women-owned. We actively collaborate with women-led businesses and continue to support their growth and development.

Today, the potential of women’s entrepreneurship is unfolding like never before. The war has shown that there’s no more time for hesitation or delay. It’s time for women to be bold. They bring energy into business, deliver exceptionally high levels of service, and have a deep understanding of their clients. That’s why the number of women entrepreneurs has grown noticeably, and that makes me truly happy.

Every crisis is a sea of opportunity, and right now, there are more opportunities than ever for women in business.
First, many major players have exited the market — some emigrated, others saw their businesses destroyed by shelling, and some simply didn’t dare to continue operating in these conditions.

Second, many men have gone to serve in the military, which has led to a talent shortage, especially in leadership roles. Companies are being forced to search for new professionals or train them, and often these professionals are women.

Third, women-led businesses now have a greater opportunity to enter international markets. Many female entrepreneurs are attending international trade fairs, showcasing their products, and trying to establish foreign offices.

“I went through it myself — when I had to leave behind something I’d been doing for over 18 years and start from scratch. I invested all my money, savings, and time into a new venture. And it worked. It worked brilliantly, if you ask me.”

🖇️ Learn more about the grant market and the prospects of additional funding for Ukrainian businesses in an interview with UNRISE CEO Irina Palko for ELLE Ukraine at the link.