Reboot in Khmelnytskyi Brought Together Veterans, IDPs and Businesses at the “Opportunities Fair” – Family Brands, Panel Discussions and Practical Cases

In the Khmelnytskyi region, the “Opportunities Fair: Business Born from an Idea” took place — an open space for those looking for work, planning a career change, or developing their own micro- and small businesses. The event was the culmination of the “Reboot: Expanding Employment Opportunities” initiative, implemented by the Ukrainian Red Cross with the support of partners, including the Danish Red Cross.

Throughout the day, participants explored local veteran and family-run brands, received advice on employment, training, and grant programmes, and discussed first steps for launching or reviving a business. The venue served as a live platform, offering mentoring conversations, networking opportunities, and opportunities to connect immediately with partners or clients.

During panel discussions, participants focused on state support and business development opportunities. Representatives from regional authorities, employment services, development agencies, and veteran initiatives joined the conversation, emphasising the importance of systematic support for people who have been displaced or lost their jobs.

The fair also highlighted practical cases from the Reboot programme — veterans and IDPs who had turned their ideas into stable sources of income. The open dialogue format allowed attendees to get answers to pressing questions: where to find funding, how to validate a chosen niche, and how to retain clients. Psychological support was also available during the event.

The Khmelnytskyi regional branch of the Ukrainian Red Cross, together with partners including the Danish Red Cross, the Khmelnytskyi Regional Military Administration, the Regional Development Agency, the Khmelnytskyi Regional Employment Centre, local businesses, and educational institutions, contributed to organising the fair.