Grant Competition for War-Affected Individuals: Opportunities for Business Development

Helvetas Swiss Intercooperation, under the Economic Resilience Program (ERP), announces the launch of a grant competition for internally displaced persons and others affected by the war who are operating in the Kharkiv and Dnipropetrovsk regions. This initiative aims to support economic resilience and increase incomes through the promotion of entrepreneurial activities for the affected individuals. Selected participants in the competition will have the opportunity to receive grants of up to 114,000 UAH each. This is reported by Diia.Business.

Entrepreneurs (self-employed individuals and sole proprietors) who are operating within Kharkiv and the Kharkiv region, Dnipro and the Dnipropetrovsk region, and who aim to start or restore their business activities can participate in the program (excluding areas with active combat operations, as well as regions with restricted access or high risk to life and business operations).

Priority will be given to applicants who:

• Became internally displaced persons (IDPs) after February 24, 2022;
• Have financial and social vulnerabilities (single parents, families with three or more children, individuals with disabilities or caregivers of family members with disabilities, veterans, etc.);
• Are entrepreneurs operating/providing services in a separate existing space (e.g., rented premises, owned premises, separate room/space, etc.).

Priority will be given to the following business activities:

• Publishing and printing (including retail book sales);
• Construction and repair work (plumbers, electricians, installers, locksmiths, welders, roofers, window and door installation, equipment repair, etc.);
• Auto service;
• Cleaning and laundry services;
• Fast food establishments (cafés, bakeries, etc.);
• Sewing and tailoring (clothing manufacturing/repair, etc.).

Grants will be provided for the purchase of materials and/or equipment or for covering services (consulting, equipment setup services, etc.).

Grant funds cannot be used for the following:

• Construction of new premises for business operations;
• Payment of taxes, salaries, or bank fees;
• Repayment of debts or payment for goods/services purchased before receiving the grant;
• Fuel expenses;
• Payment for rent, utilities, logistics, or advertising services;
• Purchase of military equipment;
• Purchase of pharmaceuticals or medical supplies.

To participate in the competition, you need to fill out the application form via the provided link.

The application deadline is August 21, 2024.

We have already announced that the deadline for submitting applications for the national UEPA award for contributions to entrepreneurship development has been extended.