Ukrainian businesses reach new markets by building on Estonia's experience

The year-long programme, called Unite for Trade, began in September 2025 and brought together local entrepreneurs with Estonian and Ukrainian experts and international mentors. The programme's main goal was to strengthen local supply chains and business partnerships by connecting experienced exporters with smaller companies and service providers. 

"The war has made the operating environment for Ukrainian businesses exceptionally challenging, while access to international markets remains critically important for Ukraine's economy. Our goal is to help businesses strengthen their export capacity, develop international contacts and meet the expectations of the European market. In doing so, we are strengthening not only individual businesses but also Ukraine's broader economic resilience and future prospects," said Reesi Lepa, ESTDEV’s head of Economic Development and Innovation. 

The programme involved 150 participants from five key sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture, electronics, renewable energy, and the creative industries. In each sector, larger companies were paired with start-ups and smaller businesses. The programme supported established companies in their internationalisation efforts and value-chain development, enabling smaller businesses to grow and integrate into these chains alongside larger enterprises. 

"Unite for Trade is about building reliable supply chains in Zhytomyr, establishing new partnerships and leveraging this strength to conquer global markets," said Anu-Mall Naarits, CEO of Visionest Institute. 

Activities included an export academy, business model development and ESG (environmental, social, and governance) training. These were complemented by regional business clubs, company visits and Estonian-Ukrainian business forums. 

Putting what was learned into practice 

In her feedback, participant Yuliia Khudiakova explained that applying the knowledge to everyday work was easier because participants used their own companies as examples for their assignments. Participants discussed challenges together and looked for solutions. Business clubs and company visits also allowed them to see how work and processes are organised in other organisations. 

A representative from Zernovita, a company specialising in grain and pasta products, summed up the programme's key lesson: "Exporting is a marathon, not a sprint." 

Programme ends, but cooperation continues 

The results of Unite for Trade will live on through the solutions participants implemented for their businesses and the network they created. The relationships built during the programme provide a foundation for future joint initiatives, including business clubs. 

Before the programme concluded, participants launched regular business clubs in Zhytomyr, Berdychiv and Korosten. Discussions focused on the importance of regular communication and opportunities for cooperation among entrepreneurs themselves, as well as with local governments, educational institutions and other organisations. In each city, the conversations reflected local circumstances and challenges. 

Feedback highlighted the need for ongoing meetings where participants can exchange experiences and seek solutions to challenges that are difficult to tackle alone. A strong business community develops over time through regular meetings, trust and collaboration.