The $1 million grant program “CREATE!” from the Ministry of Economy of Ukraine, Ukraine-Moldova American Enterprise Fund, and KSE Foundation, with the compliance support of Oschadbank JSC and expert assessment by KSE Graduate Business School, announces new winners. The project aims to help Ukrainian women in manufacturing scale their businesses.
Anna Shevtsiv is a co-owner of the Stryi Auto machine-building plant in Lviv. The grantee’s team produces vehicles and seats, including products for people with disabilities.
The entrepreneur will use the funds to develop her business by purchasing laser welding equipment and licensed software.
“Our business dream is to become a leading manufacturer of transport and equipment that improves comfort and accessibility for all groups of people. We aim to expand our presence in the international market by focusing on innovations in transport solutions and producing eco-friendly buses and ultra-comfortable seats,” Anna shares her plans.
Liliia Litkovska-Danyliuk is the owner of the LITKOVSKA brand, based in Kyiv. Today, the winner’s products can be bought in 16 countries, and her supporters include Olena Zelenska, Naomi Campbell, and Rita Ora.
The entrepreneur will use the funds to purchase modern sewing machines. It will help to scale and modernize production processes.
“I see my brand as a cultural ambassador for Ukraine, combining artistic identity and social responsibility. In the long run, I want to expand my influence and create not just clothes but also convey values through them and support the industry in Ukraine despite all the challenges,” says Lilia.
Daniella Kenez is a co-owner of Folks confectionery and bakery in Uzhhorod. The winner produces macarons, cookies, croissants, cakes, and bread for catering establishments.
With the grant money, the entrepreneur will purchase a double oven. This will help automate and improve production efficiency.
“In today’s environment, I am most inspired by Ukrainian business. The approach to entrepreneurship, unconventional vision, and desire for continuous development give me admiration and constant motivation,” says Daniella.
Kateryna Zakharchuk is the owner of a clothing and equipment production facility for the military in Kyiv. The entrepreneur’s sewing shop produces clothing and accessories for defenders and combat medics.
With the grant money, the winner will increase production productivity by purchasing additional sewing equipment, a laser machine, and a 3D printer.
“Entrepreneurship for me is a chance to follow my dream, to create something new and useful,” says Kateryna.
Olha Lekova is the founder of Recast Plastic, a furniture production company based in Kyiv. The winner creates products from recycled plastic, including tables, chairs, and benches for shelters.
The grant will help Olha to improve production processes by purchasing plastic processing machines and other necessary equipment.
“I want my business to become a global example of how technology, design, and social responsibility can be combined. My dream is to create a large-scale platform that will bring together creative people, environmentalists, and entrepreneurs to develop new solutions in sustainable development,” says Olha.
According to the program’s results, the organizing committee received over a thousand applications from Ukrainian businesswomen. The names of the following will be announced gradually.
The Ukraine-Moldova American Enterprise Fund (UMAEF, formerly Western NIS Enterprise Fund) invests in funds for the implementation of the grant program. The fund supports initiatives to promote reforms in Ukraine and transformative projects.