They are launching new production lines, automating facilities, entering new markets — and doing it in Ukraine despite the war. The “CREATE!” grant program, which supports Ukrainian women’s businesses, is back for its second phase with a budget exceeding $1,000,000 — the corresponding memorandum was signed today, July 11, at the Ukraine Recovery Conference 2025 in Rome.
“CREATE!” is a grant initiative designed to support women-led businesses in the manufacturing and processing sectors. Launched in 2024 by the Ministry of Economy of Ukraine and the Ukraine‑Moldova American Enterprise Fund (UMAEF), the program is implemented by KSE Foundation in partnership with the multimarket chain Avrora and Oschadbank.
Continuing into 2025, the program features a total budget exceeding $1,000,000, with individual grants up to $15,000. Grant funds can be used for:
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equipment purchase,
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logistics and installation,
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software (up to 30% of grant amount).
🗓 Applications are open through October 31, 2025 inclusive. Details and the application form are available on the official program website.
How “CREATE!” fuels women’s entrepreneurship and industrial growth
The program fosters sustainable local production, drives GDP growth, and supports expansion into both domestic and export markets. Women receiving grants scale their enterprises, create jobs in their communities, and strengthen Ukraine’s local economic resilience.
Voices from Leaders
Yuliia Svyrydenko, First Deputy Prime Minister & Minister of Economy of Ukraine
“When we launched “CREATE!”, we didn’t expect such a massive response — over 1,000 applications from women across Ukraine. Selecting 65 winners was challenging, but those chosen — from urban to remote communities, covering sectors such as furniture, jewelry, design, printing, farming, and manufacturing — are strong proof of how women keep Ukraine’s economy alive during hardship. We are continuing the program because its impact is visible, and we want more stories like these. I encourage other women entrepreneurs to apply — we’re ready to support you financially and structurally. These businesses are today’s backbone of the country’s recovery.”
Tetiana Berezhna, Deputy Minister of Economy of Ukraine
“In 2024, we received more than 1,000 applications; about 70% came from local manufacturers outside major cities. One grantee, a businesswoman from Pokrovsk who relocated her production, will still manage to boost production and lower costs by the end of 2025. We proudly support Ukrainian women who are working and scaling despite the war.”
Yaroslava Z. Johnson, President & CEO of UMAEF
“Supporting SMEs is key to economic stability, especially during war. UMAEF invests in scalable, tech-driven enterprises that bolster local economies. “CREATE!” aligns with this mission — it’s an instrument that enables not just survival, but growth and long-term economic empowerment.”
Svitlana Denysenko, Director of KSE Foundation
“CREATE!” is more than financial support. It has helped build a community of determined women entrepreneurs—from cosmetics to electrical materials—who challenge themselves and grow every day. With grants up to $15,000 supporting modern, energy-efficient equipment, this second phase is about growth and sustainability.”
Inna Boichuk, Corporate Affairs Director at Avrora
“We support Ukrainian-made products — nearly 50% of our store items are made locally. Supporting women-led businesses through “CREATE!” aligns with our values. We hope to see awardees’ products on Avrora shelves — it’s about trust, shared vision, and contributing to Ukraine’s economy.”
Nataliia Butkova‑Vitvitska, Board Member, Oschadbank (MSME Direction)
“Oschadbank understands the vital role of women’s entrepreneurship during wartime and fully supports the second phase of this program. We conduct business reputation checks for grant applicants and remain committed to their long‑term success, offering national, regional, and international support tools.”
Grant Process Overview
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Submit an application
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Expert review of your business plan
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Business reputation check by Oschadbank
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Recommendation for funding
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Grant award — up to $15,000 for equipment, logistics, installation, or software
This is your opportunity to join a community of bold women entrepreneurs and contribute to Ukraine’s rebuilding efforts.