Business support in May: new grants for entrepreneurs who want to grow

In May 2025, Ukrainian entrepreneurs will have a host of new opportunities for development, ranging from grants for craft production to accelerators for technology start-ups. Support is available for both young innovators and experienced businesspeople from different regions of the country. Find out more about current funding programmes and application deadlines

Legal advice on business issues

GET

Despite all the challenges, Ukrainian businesses continue to hold the economic front. Financial and mentoring support for those who create jobs, launch local initiatives, or rebuild their businesses after losses is especially important today. In May 2025, several new grant programmes were launched for entrepreneurs from various regions, ranging from craft production to high technology.

Read on to find out about the most relevant opportunities and grants to know about in May 2025.

💡 Do you want to start or run a business in Ukraine without unnecessary bureaucratic hassle?

Legal nuances, permits, taxes, registration - all this may seem complicated. Our lawyers will help foreign nationals to set up a business quickly and safely, in compliance with all legal requirements. Get a consultation and start your business without any difficulties!

Help for vulnerable groups: ‘Reboot’ from the Red Cross

Residents of ten regions of Ukraine, including Vinnytsia, Lviv, Cherkasy and Kyiv, can apply for a grant of up to UAH 100,000. The programme supports micro-businesses owned by IDPs or people in difficult life circumstances, such as single parents, large families, veterans, etc.

Deadline:

– Until 7 May — application form and documents.

– Until 15 May — business plan.

Registration is open via the ‘Perezahvaty’ platform or at offices in the relevant cities. Detailed information is available at the link.

Ternopil business support: up to UAH 800,000 through JERU

SMEs in the Ternopil community can receive significant assistance — up to 800,000 UAH for restoration, expansion or creation of new jobs. The focus is on projects with realistic business models, social impact and environmental orientation.

Deadline:

– By 11 May 2025.

Read the terms and conditions or apply to participate via the links.

Up to €20,000 for entrepreneurs in the Kyiv region: IOM programme

The IOM (International Organisation for Migration) is offering funding of up to €20,000 to businesses in the Bila Tserkva, Tetiiv and Hostomel communities. The funds can be used for equipment, repairs or business expansion.

Deadline:

– Until 11 May 2025, 18:00.

Read the terms and conditions or apply to participate via the links.

For young innovators: Social Impact Award

Young people aged 14 to 30 can receive $1,500 to implement a social project. Important: the idea must be new (created after 1 January 2024) and not yet have received significant funding. The winners will travel to represent Ukraine at the SIA finals in Slovenia.

Deadline:

– 31 May 2025.

Read the terms and conditions or apply to participate via the links.

Don't want to miss important updates and useful articles? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter!

Interest-free support for craftsmanship: up to UAH 50,000 through ‘Це КРАФТ’

For manufacturers who work with natural materials, manual labour and local raw materials, a programme offering loans of up to 50,000 UAH without interest is now open. Repayment is due after 6 months. The programme supports both start-ups and existing micro-businesses.

Deadline:

– 31 May 2025.

GCIP Ukraine 2.0: for those working with green technologies

Startups, SMEs, and social enterprises developing clean technologies can receive up to $20,000. Topics include energy efficiency, eco-friendly transport, recycling, construction, and more. The programme includes acceleration, mentoring, and offline meetings.

Deadline:

– 1 June 2025.

Read the terms and conditions or apply to participate via the links.

Mercy Corps: up to $20,000 for businesses in eastern and central regions

If your business is officially registered and located in the Kyiv, Sumy, Kharkiv or Dnipropetrovsk regions, you have a chance to receive $20,000 to restore or expand your business. A mandatory condition is the creation of at least three jobs for IDPs or local residents.

Deadline

– The closing date for applications has not been specified, so we recommend submitting your application as soon as possible.

Read the terms and conditions or apply to participate via the links.

IT Arena: up to $60,000 for technological breakthroughs

Startups with an MVP or initial sales can apply to participate in the IT Arena competition. The prize fund is up to $60,000, with the opportunity to present your project to investors, undergo acceleration and receive a share of the $3 million fund. Ideal for tech and defence tech teams.

Deadline:

– 28 June 2025.

Read the terms and conditions or apply to participate via the links.

Need help with your application?

If you are applying for a grant for the first time or want to increase your chances of winning, the team of business lawyers at Visit Ukraine will help you prepare your application, develop a business plan, and advise you on the terms and conditions of participation.

You can order support in just a few minutes. Don't miss your chance to get funding for your project!

Reminder! Ukrainians are actively entering European markets: some through business and production relocation, others in the hope of scaling up their brand. How to start a business in Europe if you are not an EU citizen — find out here.

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

We recommend purchasing it for a safe and comfortable trip to Ukraine: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance – insurance covering military risks for entry and travel in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Car Insurance – car insurance with extended coverage in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Legal Advice – comprehensive legal support on entry to Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Tickets – bus and train tickets to/from Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Tours – the largest online database of tours to Ukraine for every taste;

Visit Ukraine Hotels – hotels for a comfortable stay in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Merch – patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.

© 2018-2025, Visit Ukraine. Use, copying or reprinting of materials on this site is permitted only with a link (hyperlink for online publications) to Visit Ukraine.

All rights reserved.