The war in Ukraine has not only brought devastation but has also led to an increase in female entrepreneurs stepping up to maintain the economy. The rise of women in the entrepreneurial landscape of Ukraine is evident, with around half of the country’s businesses being female-founded. Women are not only starting their businesses but are also taking over businesses originally started by men. This shift is not just due to men being away at the front but because women are bringing a different perspective to doing business, being more flexible and having more soft skills.
One example of female entrepreneurship in Ukraine is Daria Voevoda, the CEO and co-founder of Spend with Ukraine, a not-for-profit online marketplace that encourages international buyers to engage with and purchase from Ukrainian entrepreneurs. Voevoda mentions that the platform has seen partnering businesses experience increases in international sales and web visits, showing the impact of female-led initiatives. Female entrepreneurs in Ukraine are tapping into various sectors, from finance to fashion, showcasing the diversity and innovation within the country’s startup ecosystem.
The ongoing war in Ukraine has had a profound impact on the entrepreneurial activity, with many women like Khrystyna Oliyarnyk, the founder of Oliz, finding inspiration to start their businesses in the face of adversity. Oliyarnyk’s clothing brand celebrates traditional Ukrainian designs and culture, with the war serving as a catalyst for her to pursue her entrepreneurial ambitions. Despite the challenges posed by air attacks disrupting production and power outages, Oliyarnyk remains determined to navigate the obstacles and focus on international markets such as the U.S.
The entrepreneurial landscape in Ukraine faces numerous challenges, including a decrease in GDP and uncertainties due to the ongoing conflict. Voevoda emphasizes the importance of international partnerships and collaboration for Ukraine’s startups to thrive, despite propaganda efforts from Russia. She envisions a future where Ukraine’s brands can achieve success similar to other European countries like Estonia and Poland. Voevoda’s dream is to see Spend with Ukraine play a pivotal role in promoting Ukrainian startups on a global scale and believes that the role of women in Ukraine’s business ecosystem will continue to expand in the coming years.
The resilience and determination of female entrepreneurs in Ukraine highlight the potential for growth and innovation in the country’s startup scene. Despite the challenges posed by the war, these women continue to drive economic activities and bring fresh perspectives to the entrepreneurial landscape. With a focus on sustainability, green energy, and fashion, female-led companies in Ukraine are paving the way for a brighter future, showcasing the power of entrepreneurship in times of crisis. As Ukraine looks towards rebuilding and recovery, the role of women in shaping the country’s entrepreneurial future will be crucial in driving innovation, growth, and economic development.
