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Small Business as a Big Bet: Ukraine Launches “The Power of Small 2025” Grant Program

by Roman Cheplyk
Friday, August 29, 2025
2 MIN
Small Business as a Big Bet: Ukraine Launches “The Power of Small 2025” Grant Program

Entrepreneurs will receive up to UAH 250,000 in non-repayable grants with EU and World Bank support

The Government of Ukraine has launched a new support initiative for small and microbusinesses — “The Power of Small 2025”. The program provides non-repayable grants of up to UAH 250,000 for entrepreneurs in production, processing, logistics and services.

According to Minister of Economy Yulia Svyrydenko, the goal is not only to help businesses survive wartime challenges, but to scale:

“We want small business to become a driver of economic recovery.”


Who Can Apply

The program primarily targets:

  • Entrepreneurs affected by the war;

  • Businesses relocated from frontline regions;

  • Projects that create new jobs and demonstrate export potential.

Applications are submitted via the Diya.Business portal. Selection will be competitive, with priority given to companies presenting:

  • A clear business plan,

  • Job creation strategy,

  • Export or international cooperation potential.


Program Financing

The initiative is supported by the European Union and the World Bank.

  • In 2025, the budget is UAH 1.2 billion,

  • At least 5,000 enterprises are expected to benefit.

This makes “The Power of Small 2025” one of the largest grant programs for entrepreneurs in recent years.


Why It Matters for Ukraine’s Economy

Economists note that the program is a “spotlight strike” against unemployment and local stagnation. Small businesses are often the first to create jobs and stimulate local economies.

However, experts also warn: without systemic measures such as simplifying taxes and expanding access to affordable loans, the effect of grants will remain limited.


✅ Key Takeaway

“The Power of Small 2025” signals the government’s strategic shift towards making small and microbusinesses key drivers of economic recovery. With EU and World Bank backing, entrepreneurs now have an opportunity to restart, scale and create jobs — but broader reforms in taxation and financing will be essential to unlock the full potential of Ukraine’s small business sector.

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