SEED Program for Agribusiness Entrepreneurs
The fifth wave of the SEED educational and grant program has now launched in Ukraine. This initiative, which provides both funding and business development training, is specifically designed to support entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector who have been impacted by the war. The program is run by the UN Global Compact in Ukraine, in partnership with the Ministry of Economy, with implementation support from PepsiCo and the PepsiCo Foundation.
Agribusiness entrepreneurs can apply for financial support of 100,000 hryvnias. According to the program's terms, more than ten of the best projects will each receive this 100,000-hryvnia grant. The application window is open until March 3, 2026. Previous rounds of the program have already proven successful, with dozens of Ukrainians using the support to rebuild destroyed businesses or launch new production lines. The Ministry of Economy has noted that
"the program has demonstrated its effectiveness even under difficult conditions."
Program Participation Requirements
Applications are open to existing businesses in farming, agricultural technology, and processing. Funding is also available for related fields such as agritourism, gastronomy projects, and organic production. Organizers are placing special emphasis on environmental initiatives, like water purification or sustainable land management. Within the program, particular attention will be given to entrepreneurs who have suffered from Russian aggression or were forced to relocate their businesses.
The SEED program also includes online courses on marketing, investment, and strategic planning. To apply, candidates must complete a questionnaire and submit a presentation of their business idea. The presentation format is flexible and can be one of the following:
- A PowerPoint file of up to 5 slides
- A video of up to 2 minutes
- A text document of up to 2 pages
The launch of this fifth wave is a significant step in supporting Ukrainian entrepreneurs, especially given the substantial losses the agricultural sector has endured due to the war. This type of business support, combining grants with training, can contribute to the country's economic recovery, particularly in the vital agricultural sector. The program underscores the growing importance of sustainability and environmental initiatives in the modern business landscape, which is crucial for long-term resilience.