The Ukrainian government has launched a new state energy support program for entrepreneurs, as announced by Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko.
This is reported by Finway
Starting from February 2, individual entrepreneurs of the second and third groups who employ hired workers can apply for a one-time financial assistance. The amount of aid ranges from 7,500 to 15,000 hryvnias, depending on the number of officially registered employees. This initiative aims to support small businesses amid the unstable operation of the energy system.
How to Apply for Financial Assistance
Applications can be submitted entirely online through the “Diia” portal in the “Entrepreneurship” section by selecting the service “Assistance for Individual Entrepreneurs for Energy Resilience.” The automatic data verification significantly speeds up the processing of applications. Funds are credited to the Diia Card at one of five banks: PrivatBank, Sense Bank, Bank Credit Dnipro, A-bank, or monobank.
Preferential Loans for Energy Modernization of Businesses
In addition to one-time payments, there is a preferential lending program “Affordable Loans 5-7-9” for micro, small, and medium-sized businesses. Under this program, entrepreneurs can obtain loans at 0% annual interest for the purchase of energy equipment. The maximum financing amount is 10 million hryvnias, and the loan term is up to three years. The state compensates banks for the interest rate through the Entrepreneurship Development Fund. Currently, 17 partner banks are accepting applications for such loans, and a total of 43 financial institutions are involved in the program. Applications for energy loans are prioritized.
“Energy support is designed to help businesses continue operating amid power outages, preserve jobs, and provide goods and services to the population.”
On February 2, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced the complete restoration of stable energy system operations following an accident that occurred at the end of January. Simultaneously, from January 30, the acceptance of applications for the “LightHome” program for apartment buildings began, indicating the government’s comprehensive approach to enhancing energy independence.
Targeted Use of State Assistance
Funds received under state support can be directed towards:
- the purchase or repair of generators and other energy equipment;
- batteries and inverters;
- charging stations;
- solar panels and components;
- fuel for generators;
- payment for electricity for autonomous operation during outages.
The introduction of the energy support program is seen as an important step towards stabilizing the economic situation during energy crises. Authorities believe that these tools will significantly contribute to the preservation of businesses, jobs, and the resilience of communities across Ukraine.