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After five years of war, how do Ukrainian small businesses survive?

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Based on a feed excerpt; full article content has not been acquired. Source evidence retrieved 29/09/2026, 11:15:24 UTC.

Briefings

During the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, 83% of small businesses were negatively affected, with women-led enterprises increasing in prevalence. Women accounted for nearly 60% of newly registered sole proprietors in Q1 2026, up from 49% at conflict onset, and led 32% of registered companies in March 2026. Victoria Belim-Frolova, a journalist based in eastern Ukraine since 2024, reports that businesses adapt by relocating, downsizing, or shifting products, while online commerce allows some producers to reach international markets despite logistical disruptions.

Key points

• Women-led small businesses increased in prevalence during the full-scale invasion, with 83% of all small businesses negatively affected by the war.
• In Q1 2026, women accounted for nearly 60% of newly registered sole proprietors, representing 34% of all newly formed enterprises in 2025.

Context and limitations

Data sources include UNDP studies, The New Voice of Ukraine, and Victoria Belim-Frolova's personal archive; some statistics are from March 2026, and qualitative observations are limited to interviews and specific case studies.

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