Export growth and jobs for Ukraine: building EU-ready companies and export sales talent

Economic Development

Ukraine

Timeframe 01.04.2026-31.03.2027 Aktiivne

Target group Ukraina väike- ja keskmise suurusega ettevõtted

Budget 123 538 EUR

Funders

ESTDEV

Partners

Visionest Institute OÜ

The resilience of the Ukrainian economy during the war and its recovery in the post-war period directly depend on export growth. The National Export Strategy of Ukraine until 2030, which is currently being approved, aims to increase exports of goods and services and change the structure of exports towards higher added value, reducing dependence on raw material-based exports. The strategy emphasizes that the current raw material-centric export model does not create enough high-quality jobs and does not support regional development.

According to a survey of companies conducted by the Ministry of Economy of Ukraine in early 2025, one of the most important obstacles to exports is the lack of qualified labor, which was noted by 49% of respondents. The shortage of competencies in international sales, export planning and working with EU markets is particularly acute. In addition, companies highlight the difficulties in gaining the trust of foreign partners and establishing long-term sales relationships in a war situation.

Project objectives

The project aims to increase the export capacity of Ukrainian companies and create qualified jobs for young people and women in the field of export sales.

Actions and results

During the project, 100 Ukrainian SMEs will undergo a multi-module Export Academy and ESG training, resulting in actionable EU export plans. In addition, at least 15 young people and women with international experience will be recruited and trained to work as export sales managers in Ukrainian companies. Activities include training, mentoring, on-the-job training and monitoring of results.

Based on previous impact analyses, participating companies will increase their export turnover by an average of up to 250,000 euros in the year after the program and create approximately 3 new jobs per company, directly contributing to the recovery and resilience of the Ukrainian economy.

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