Business revival: the role of the state, entrepreneurs and civil society — Ideas Day in Odesa

Ukrainian business is now experiencing times of challenges and trials. After the beginning of the full-scale invasion, the role of entrepreneurs has become especially significant in supporting the stability of the state – hundreds of thousands of hryvnias in investments, assistance to the military, and war-affected Ukrainians. Entrepreneurs have demonstrated their efficiency and effectiveness as the foundation of the state’s development. However, Ukrainian businesses must now consider interacting with other agents — the state and civil society — to achieve the maximum possible development for themselves and the country.

This and other issues speakers discussed during the Ideas Day, which the Aspen Institute Kyiv and Impact Hub Odesa, represented by its co-founder Yegor Grebennikov, organized on July 22 in Odesa as a part of the Festival of Ideas – a significant event organized since 2017.

Iryna Horova (CEO and owner of POMITNI).

The creative industries market is developing rapidly. To keep it in this state, we need a proper infrastructure. Only it will help us grow and progress further. For example, operating with special unions and associations is necessary for effective interaction between the music business and the state. After all, there is no relevant tool for discussions now. There is also no database of musicians and authors in Ukraine, which is inconvenient. 

Kyrylo Kryvolap (Director of the Center for Economic Recovery).

To revive Ukraine’s economy, we need to address three directions. The first is to create a favorable business environment. We must pursue an appropriate industrial policy and eliminate artificial barriers in this context. The second area is the development of regional capacity. Much depends on local initiatives. The third area is European integration. For this, we need competent lawyers and experienced negotiators.

Dmytro Stryzhov (founder of the security holding “SHERIFF”).

Among other things, Ukrainian businesses need an effective law enforcement system. First of all, we need to change our attitude towards business. Instead of looking for it as easy money, we need to promote the unification of entrepreneurs and the institution of lobbying. Real change will come when we break the system of old elites. Improving the law enforcement system may be difficult, but the efforts spent on reforms will eventually bring a fair, efficient, and robust society.

Oleksiy Sobolev (Deputy Minister of Economy of Ukraine).

Economic security is at the heart of our existential security. To ensure it, the return of people from abroad plays a critical role. We must build housing, provide Ukrainians with jobs, and develop social infrastructure. Another factor of economic security is investment. Private businesses will come to Ukraine if we can create a favorable environment. This means that we will have more resources for development and prosperity. Intra-sectoral cohesion is a significant factor in ensuring sustainable growth and protecting against internal and external challenges.

Denis Poltavets, Director of Program Development at the Aspen Institute Kyiv, moderated the discussion.