Belgian and EU Support for Ukraine's Reconstruction: Opportunities for Businesses

Belgium and the EU are actively contributing to Ukraine’s reconstruction, presenting numerous opportunities for businesses to get involved. Below is an overview of key programs, resources, and initiatives to help businesses navigate this landscape:

Regional Support for Businesses

Belgian regional trade agencies provide essential guidance and resources for companies interested in developing activities in Ukraine:

• Flanders Investment & Trade (FIT): Offers detailed information, including a dedicated "Rebuild Ukraine" dossier, and assistance in identifying partners or tenders. Contact: kris.put@fitagency.com.
• Wallonia Export & Investment Agency (AWEX): Provides market insights and export support for Walloon businesses. Contact: kyiv@awex-wallonia.com.
• hub.brussels: Supports businesses in the Brussels region exploring opportunities in Ukraine. Contact: nneve@hub.brussels.

Financial Tools and Insurance for Exporters

• Credendo: Belgium's export credit agency provides insurance for transactions with Ukrainian entities, ensuring coverage for up to €15 million per transaction. They also support short-, medium-, and long-term trade finance. Contact: eca@credendo.com.
• Finexpo: Offers concessional financing tied to the export of equipment and services, with favorable loan conditions aligned with Belgium’s diplomatic values. Contact: Finexpo@diplobel.fed.be.

European Union Support Initiatives

The EU’s €50 billion Ukraine Facility includes:

• Ukraine Investment Framework: A €9.3 billion fund dedicated to private and public investments in reconstruction, with resources allocated through international institutions like the EIB and EBRD. Contact: NEAR-EU-UKRAINE-INVESTMENT-FRAMEWORK@ec.europa.eu.

Belgian Development and Investment Efforts

• Enabel (Belgian Development Agency): Managing a €150 million program focused on rebuilding education, health, energy, and infrastructure in Kyiv and Chernihiv. Enabel tenders are accessible through public platforms. Contact: representation.ukraine@enabel.be.
• Belgian Investment Company for Developing Countries (BIO): Allocating €18 million to support small- and medium-sized businesses in Ukraine, fostering resilience in the local economy. Contact: jonathan.walton@bio-invest.be or francois.maudet@bio-invest.be.

Ukrainian Government Platforms for Investors

The Ukrainian government is proactively inviting foreign investment through the following platforms:

• Ukraine Invest: Guides on investment opportunities and strategies (Ukraine Invest).
• DREAM Platform: Showcases specific reconstruction projects (DREAM).
• Advantage Ukraine: Highlights investment opportunities (Advantage Ukraine).
• Prozorro: Centralized platform for public procurement tenders (Prozorro).

No Direct Grants for Activities

At present, there are no direct grants available for business activities in Ukraine. However, businesses can leverage the above resources and financing mechanisms to participate in reconstruction projects.

For comprehensive details, visit the Ministry’s dedicated page:
Doing Business in and with Ukraine.

This summary outlines the wealth of opportunities and support available for companies eager to contribute to rebuilding Ukraine’s future. Reach out to the listed contacts or explore the Ministry's resources for further assistance.