💼 “Own Business” Grants: Stories of resilience from entrepreneurs in frontline regions – Kharkiv Regional Employment Service
For many, the full-scale war has forever changed the meaning and perception of family: some have lost their homes, others — their loved ones, and some are still waiting.
Yet despite the losses, Ukrainian families are holding on. They support each other and build businesses — out of love, memory, and strength.
This is especially evident in areas where hostilities are close and the security situation is volatile.
The “Own Business” grant recipients from the Ministry of Economy of Ukraine and the State Employment Service in frontline regions are people of incredible resilience. Running a family business during a full-scale war, under constant danger and cruelty from the enemy, is a way to stay grounded, support the economy, and create jobs.
That’s exactly what the Nikitin family from Kharkiv — Fedir and Olha — do every day. He runs a vital social project producing inclusive elevators and lifts, while she manufactures mirrors of any shape and size. Olha, by the way, is among the top three mirror producers in Ukraine.
Another example of resilience and belief in the future is the Sebro family from Vysokopillia, Beryslav district, Kherson region. Before the full-scale invasion, they had their own grocery store “Tetyana” and flower shop “Fialka.” During russia’s temporary occupation, their shops were damaged, goods looted, and their village devastated.
Despite this, the family didn’t give up. The grants helped them rebuild the stores and create jobs. It also inspired their son Oleksandr to launch his own business.
“You can achieve anything, as long as you believe in yourself and your strength,” say Artur and Liliya Baranov, proving that family is strength, business is responsibility, and the state is a partner that supports you. Back in 2014, russia’s armed aggression forced them to flee their native Luhansk region. They relocated their company “Prokom” to Donetsk region, where it now specializes in lumber production, transport services, and construction material trade. As a socially responsible business, they employ internally displaced persons and people with disabilities, and actively participate in compensation programs from the Employment Service.
Volodymyr and Liudmyla Sirky, originally from temporarily occupied Enerhodar, revived their family business in Zaporizhzhia. They received a grant to purchase new kitchen equipment and opened a fast-food dining establishment called “Cafeteria of Ukrainian Taste,” modeled on a buffet style. Both the team and the owners are internally displaced Ukrainians.
“We will win and return home. Together, we’ll build the future of Ukraine!” — say the grant recipients, whose words and stories of starting or reviving a business inspire others every day.
Kharkiv Regional Employment Service
Kherson Regional Employment Center
Donetsk Regional Employment Service
Zaporizhzhia Regional Employment Service
With support Kharkiv Regional Employment Service
