IDPs and vulnerable local residents Kharkiv region have the opportunity to receive financial assistance to restore microbusinesses lost due to the war, or to start their own business to expand their earning opportunities within the framework of the BLOOM Program: "Creating Livelihoods and Opportunities for Optimized Markets", which is implemented by the NGO «"Free People Employment Center.".
The amount of financial assistance can range from 1000 to 5000$ in hryvnia equivalent at the current NBU exchange rate. The final amount will depend on the type of business, financial needs and capabilities of a particular project participant. The funds can be used to cover the costs of purchasing equipment or other materials, goods necessary for running your own business.
Only members can participate in this project and receive appropriate direct financial assistance. non-farm households, who live in the Kharkiv region and plan to increase their income through their own business or microbusiness.
To participate in the project, you need to register and fill out an application: questionnaire.
Applications for financial assistance will be accepted in two waves, with the deadline for the first wave of submissions being November 30, 2025.
One of the key selection criteria is belonging to one of the communities that may face social and/or economic barriers. The project aims to support war-affected households, people with disabilities, ethnic communities (including Roma), LGBTIQ+, low-income people, veterans, women headed households, large families and single-earner households.
Other selection criteria include: a clear argumentation of the need for financial assistance; compliance of the business idea with the terms and objectives of the program; viability and realism of the business idea; the participant's ability to implement the proposed business idea; understanding of their sales market and customer flow.
Stages of participation in the project:
- filling out an online questionnaire,
- passing an online interview,
- online or offline visit to the participant's place of business activity,
- participation in the selection committee,
- receiving help,
- undergoing monitoring,
- post-participant support.
Post-support for participants will take place in the format of group consultations, during which they will be able to exchange experiences, receive advice and support on their path to self-employment. Participants will have the opportunity to discuss business ideas, share practical cases, receive feedback, and also get acquainted with opportunities for developing their own business. Such consultations will contribute to increasing motivation, mutual assistance, and the formation of a community of like-minded people.
This project is implemented by the NGO "Free People's Employment Center" with financial support from the UK government through UK aid within the framework of the BLOOM Program. The program is implemented by the BLOOM consortium, which includes Mercy Corps, the International Rescue Committee (IRC), Swisscontact and the Right to Protection (R2P).