Ukraine’s Agribusiness Sector on the Path to the EU: Financial Instruments That Deliver Results

Valeriy Maiboroda, First Deputy Chairman of the Management Board of the Business Development Fund, took part in a regional dialogue with the business community entitled “The Agricultural Sector on Ukraine’s Path to the EU: Where We Stand and What Lies Ahead.”

During the panel discussion “Investments and Support Instruments for Businesses on the Path to the EU,” he emphasized that the Affordable Loans 5–7–9% Program, which is an example of an effective and transparent partnership between the state and the business community, will continue to support entrepreneurs in their transition to EU standards.

In addition to the 5–7–9% Program, the speaker announced the launch in 2026 of three new programs involving international partners, including:

➡️ EUR 40.5 million in grant funding from the German Development Bank (KfW);
➡️ EUR 140 million in programs with the European Union;
➡️ a EUR 20 million project with the Council of Europe Development Bank, targeting microenterprises and agricultural producers.

The programs will provide guarantees and long-term liquidity, with the option to be combined with the state 5–7–9% Program, as well as investment compensation of up to 20%.

It was also emphasized that, as of 1 January 2026, the Business Development Fund has been renamed the National Development Institution—an entity that will operate in line with European practices and offer an expanded range of financial support instruments.

The event brought together representatives of public authorities, regional administrations, businesses, and international partners for an open dialogue on the European integration of the agricultural sector and Ukraine’s preparation for EU membership.