Forum “Craft Business of Odesa Region”: new opportunities for development and cooperation

on August 9, Odesa hosted the “Craft Business of Odesa Region” forum organized by the Odesa Regional Military Administration and the Regional Development Agency of Odesa Region with the support of UKRSIBBANK and Lifecell. The event brought together more than 50 entrepreneurs from all over the region who are engaged in their own production or create products on their own.

The event featured a wide range of craft products: gourmet cheeses, organic raw-cured meat delicacies, honey and honey-based products, confectionery, snails, various types of oils, arts and crafts, and much more.

Deputy Minister of Economy of Ukraine Nadiia Bihun, who joined the event online, spoke about the prospects for promoting Ukrainian craft brands in the domestic and international markets under the Made in Ukraine program.

Among the participating entrepreneurs were those who started their own business thanks to grant programs. Such non-refundable financial assistance provided by international and national donors is a significant support for many who seek to realize their business ideas and support the country and the military.

The experts of the Regional Development Agency of Odesa Region presented available grant programs that can be used to start or scale up a business. The Agency’s experts not only shared their experience and knowledge in the craft business, but also provided practical advice on participating in grant programs, applying for grants, and preparing permits for the export of Ukrainian goods.

The Forum has become an important platform for discussing legislative regulation, prospects for the development of the craft sector, as well as opportunities to support entrepreneurship through financial assistance and establishing partnerships between manufacturers, retail chains and international partners.

The expertise of the Regional Development Agency of Odesa Region in organizing the forum was an important component in ensuring its success. Thanks to their experience and deep understanding of the needs of local businesses, the Agency’s specialists were able to create favorable conditions for effective communication. The forum was another confirmation of the importance of craft sector development and economic stability of the region.