Social entrepreneurship as a path to new opportunities: forum for veterans and their families held in Vinnytsia
On 27 August, Vinnytsia hosted the “Social Entrepreneurship” forum, focused on opportunities for professional development, entrepreneurship and social reintegration for veterans and their families.
The event was organised at the initiative of the Ukrainian Red Cross and its Vinnytsia regional branch, with the support of the British Red Cross. The forum brought together representatives of government authorities, specialists in veteran affairs, employment and education, as well as veteran entrepreneurs who are developing their businesses and creating new opportunities for themselves and their communities.
One of the key focuses of the forum was the real-life experiences of veterans who, after returning to civilian life, chose entrepreneurship and professional development as their next steps. During a panel discussion, participants shared their experiences — from starting businesses in manufacturing, veterinary services and agriculture to developing creative projects, continuing family businesses and pursuing new professions.
These stories demonstrated the diverse paths to professional fulfilment available after military service. At the same time, they are united by a desire to grow, create opportunities for themselves and contribute to their families and communities. In this context, entrepreneurship can be not only a source of income, but also a means of professional fulfilment, economic independence and social cohesion.
The forum also highlighted the “Reboot: Expanding Employment Opportunities” programme and the new “Supporting the Reintegration of Veterans in Ukraine” programme. Participants learned about opportunities for training, mentoring, professional development, starting and growing their own businesses, and accessing grant funding.
The “Supporting the Reintegration of Veterans in Ukraine” programme is being implemented by the Ukrainian Red Cross in Vinnytsia and Mykolaiv regions with the support of the Danish Red Cross. It aims to support veterans and their families in their professional development and in starting, restoring or growing their own businesses.
The programme offers three main areas of support:
- Veteran Business School — microgrants of up to EUR 3,000 to start, restore or grow a business;
- Social Entrepreneurship School — grant funding of up to EUR 12,500;
- Inspirational and training sessions for entrepreneurs, focused on developing entrepreneurial skills, sharing experience and exploring new opportunities.
The event provided a space for sharing experiences, open dialogue and exploring practical opportunities for professional and entrepreneurial development. Initiatives like this help create an environment where veterans and their families can explore new professional pathways, access the tools they need to develop their own businesses, and become active contributors to the recovery and development of their communities.
