On April 1, Nataliia Adamova, Director of the Donetsk Regional Employment Center, met with entrepreneur Valentyna Kushnir from Kramatorsk — a woman who turned her idea into a stable business and created new opportunities for others.
Her story is not only about entrepreneurship. It is about mutual support and the strength of people who refuse to give up. Even in frontline cities, new opportunities are emerging — for development, employment, and life.
With the support of the employment service, Valentyna became a participant in the microgrant program “Own Business.” The funding she received allowed her to take a confident step forward: set up her store, purchase the necessary equipment, and create a comfortable space for customers.
Today, her business is more than just retail — it is a place where people can find essential goods: clothing, footwear, and household items, all tailored to the needs of the community.
Importantly, the development of the business has led to the creation of new jobs. Valentyna employed two workers, including an internally displaced person. She also took advantage of a state compensation program for employers, further demonstrating the effectiveness of support tools.
During the meeting, they discussed not only achievements but also the daily challenges of running a business. At the same time, the key theme remained faith in the future.
“Valentyna’s example is the best proof that state support programs truly work. Behind every grant is not just a business, but people, their efforts, and their desire to grow. For the employment service, it is important not only to provide funding but also to support entrepreneurs along their journey, helping them strengthen and create new jobs,” Nataliia Adamova emphasized.