Following the successful completion of the REDpreneur Women project, 23 women veterans have each received grants of €7,000 to develop their own businesses. Together, they are shaping a new segment of socially responsible entrepreneurship in Ukraine, demonstrating how systematic support can transform military experience into sustainable business potential. The project empowers women transitioning to civilian life to realize their entrepreneurial ambitions and build businesses with a social impact.
On April 17, during the project’s final stage, participants pitched and defended their business plans. Each veteran progressed from shaping an initial concept to developing a full business plan, gaining entrepreneurial knowledge, receiving mentorship, and acquiring practical tools to grow her venture.
An expert jury evaluated the projects based on their social impact, innovation, and viability in today’s challenging environment. The selected grantees represent a diverse range of business sectors, from manufacturing and agriculture to creative industries, including:
- Production & Agriculture: Mobile wood chip processing, dairy and quail farm, family apiarie, natural confectionery production and delivery of farm products, bedding production workshop, and designer apparel.
- Services: Graphic design and branding, a print center, cleaning services, beauty services, an English language school, and a wellness center.
- Social & Inclusive Spaces: Barrier-free cafe with adaptive menus, community coffee space supporting veterans, a tolerance and inclusion hub with barrier-free recreational and recovery areas, a women’s applied safety center, and a project creating children’s literature based on age-appropriate psychology.
These businesses are set to create new jobs and expand access to essential services within local communities, fostering a culture of support and accessibility across Ukrainian society.
The Ukrainian Red Cross implements the REDpreneur Women project in partnership with the Austrian Red Cross, the Ministry of Veterans Affairs of Ukraine, and the Ukrainian Veterans Fund, with the support of NACHBAR IN NOT and the Austrian Development Agency. The training and mentorship components are delivered in partnership with the Ukrainian Future Incubator.
The Ukrainian Red Cross remains a reliable partner in implementing large-scale social initiatives and providing systematic support for veterans. Lasting impact can only be achieved through the joint efforts of civil society, government, and business. The Ukrainian Red Cross is always open to dialogue and new partnerships that help scale positive change and ensure a dignified future for those returning to civilian life.
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