GURT Supports Small Business Development in Ukraine During the War

Supporting small businesses in Ukraine during the war is extremely important for the state’s economic stability. Micro and small businesses provide jobs, which is critical for reducing unemployment and maintaining the population’s standard of living.

Ukrainian business is holding up well in the conditions of war. However, this process needs constant support. Therefore, the GURT Resource Center continues to support entrepreneurs within the framework of the International Labor Organization project “Inclusive Labor Market to Create Jobs in Ukraine” and develops business skills through the “Start and Improve Your Business” training program. Qualified experts and certified trainers of GURT provide entrepreneurs with access to individual counseling and assist in raising startup funding for the development of their business. 

In 2023, we held 26 trainings for entrepreneurs in different parts of Ukraine. 538 people improved their knowledge and skills in managing their businesses (82.5% of them are women). More than 60% of entrepreneurs declared the creation of new jobs due to participation in GURT’s trainings, and about 20% took advantage of the state programs of grants and loans for small businesses.

The russia’s air strike forced the group to continue the training for entrepreneurs in the bomb shelter.

Hanna Dovzhenko, IDP from Kharkiv, who moved to Lviv region:

“When I saw an announcement on social networks about the training “Start Your Business” from the International Labor Organization, which was organized by GURT, I immediately became interested. She saw that it was for three days – that is, it should be quite thorough – and registered. It was a driving, emotionally charged event. Everything happened in one breath! I presented my business idea for the first time at the training. For the first time, she talked about herself, her product, and its benefits in front of a large audience. I received valuable feedback – other participants gave advice, made comments, and shared what works and responds to them and what does not work. Almost everyone said that I should work with social networks, it became a new horizon for me. So, I am very grateful and advise everyone to attend such trainings”.

Hanna’s full story in Ukrainian

In 2023, these activities were enabled by financial support from the International Labor Organization through the DANIDA funded project and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH on behalf of the German Federal Government.

More success stories of entrepreneurs supported by GURT who continue their business, restore a relocated or lost business in a new place, or start a business during the war can be found here (in Ukrainian).

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