Ukrainian Red Cross Society launches social entrepreneurship school for veterans

The Ukrainian Red Cross Society (URCS) has launched a social entrepreneurship school aimed at veterans and their families from Vinnytsia and Mykolaiv regions. This initiative is part of the Supporting the Reintegration of Veterans in Ukraine program, which seeks to help participants establish businesses that generate profit while addressing social issues and fostering community development.

URCS announced the recruitment drive on Facebook, offering grant funding of up to EUR 12,500 for those who successfully launch or develop a social business project. Eligible participants include veterans who have completed their service in Ukraine's Armed Forces, as well as family members of missing or captured service members, such as parents, spouses, and children.

The program provides training in social enterprise development and management, including financial management, communications, and customer acquisition. Practical workshops and expert meetings are also scheduled. Veterans will receive guidance in crafting business plans and financial models. After receiving a grant, support will be available for project implementation.

The training program spans two to three months, with preference given to initiatives that positively impact communities, promote social cohesion, or address pressing social challenges. Participants can enroll in either the veteran business school or the social entrepreneurship school, but not both. The Supporting the Reintegration of Veterans in Ukraine program is a joint effort between the URCS, the Danish Red Cross, and the International Institute of Management.