The BDF and LuxDev deepen their cooperation and announce a new stage of support for entrepreneurs in the Kryvyi Rih district

First Deputy Chairperson of the Management Board of the Business Development Fund (BDF), Valerij Maiboroda, held a working meeting with Paolo Cervino, Head of the Global Programmes Department at the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency LuxDev.

🤝 The discussion focused on deepening the partnership between the BDF and LuxDev and expanding support programmes for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Ukraine. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening joint financing instruments aimed at enhancing the resilience and investment capacity of entrepreneurs.

The meeting highlighted the results of the first cycle of the MSME Support Programme in the Kryvyi Rih District, implemented by the BDF and financed by the Government of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg through LuxDev. Since its launch on 1 October 2024, 200 local businesses have received EUR 2.7 million in grant support. The programme has proven to be an effective tool for strengthening business resilience and stimulating entrepreneurial development during the region’s recovery.

📢 Announcement of the Second Cycle: Expanded Support and Focus on New Entrepreneurs

The parties agreed to launch the second cycle of the programme in February–March 2026. This new phase significantly broadens the programme’s scope by extending support not only to existing businesses but also to individuals planning to start their own ventures.

Key features of the second cycle include:

➡️ grant support for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises;

➡️ free training for individuals with a business idea and the opportunity to apply for a start-up grant upon successful completion of the training;

➡️ a priority focus on residents of the communities within the Kryvyi Rih District — villages, towns, and cities in its administrative structure.

The BDF and LuxDev reaffirmed their joint commitment to expanding entrepreneurship support instruments, increasing programme effectiveness, and fostering the development of local economies as a foundation for Ukraine’s recovery.