More and more women in Ukraine are choosing the path of entrepreneurship. They launch new projects, create jobs, support communities, and prove that business for women is not an exception but a natural part of modern society.
Despite challenging times, Ukrainian women continue to start their own businesses and seek new opportunities. The Employment Service helps women unlock their potential and bring their business ideas to life. For the third year in a row, the state grant program “Own Business” has been implemented, enabling hundreds of women to receive financial support, expert consultations, and assistance at every stage of launching their businesses.
This week, ahead of International Women Entrepreneurs’ Day, celebrated globally on November 19, the Donetsk Regional Employment Service begins a series of publications dedicated to women entrepreneurs of Donetsk region who, thanks to their perseverance and state support, have brought their business dreams to life.
Under the “Own Business” program, more than 70 women in the region have become leaders of their own successful enterprises. With grant support, they purchased equipment, expanded production, entered new markets, and created jobs.
Among them is Yelyzaveta Savchenko, a young and ambitious entrepreneur from Sloviansk. Her journey is an example of how courage and belief in one’s idea can change a life.
Yelyzaveta had long dreamed of opening her own store, but the full-scale war put life on pause. Despite uncertainty and risks, she did not abandon her plan. On the contrary, in February 2024, she decided to bring to life a project that had lived in her heart for years.
As a winner of the government program “Own Business”, she used the grant funds to purchase computer equipment, furniture, and pay for premises rental. Yelyzaveta created two new jobs and turned to employment service recruiters for help in finding staff. After successful training, she hired two women — Olha and Larysa — as a merchandiser and manager.
For employing job seekers in newly created positions, the entrepreneur received reimbursement of the unified social contribution for compulsory state social insurance, which she effectively used for further business development.
This is just one of hundreds of inspiring stories proving that the women of Donetsk region are not afraid of change and boldly build their future.
Follow our publications — many more stories of women’s strength, determination, and success are ahead!
Learn more about the “Own Business” program: https://www.dcz.gov.ua/people/micro.
Call Center of the Donetsk Regional Employment Center: 0-800-219-713