“Future in your hands”: 118 business ideas on the way to grant support

The “Future in Your Hands” program, implemented by the charitable foundation “Smile UA” together with the International Rescue Committee (IRC), helps entrepreneurs and households in the communities of the Dnipropetrovsk region find support for developing their own businesses.

🔹 What is this program?
This is a comprehensive initiative that not only provides grants but also teaches entrepreneurs effective business management, helps them structure ideas, and create sustainable business models.

🔹 Why is this important?
Small businesses are the heart of the community, and in times of war, they become an essential tool for economic resilience. The program helps people not only preserve their businesses but also adapt them to new conditions.

The program is on the final stretch: the grant committee has started voting

After two days of intensive training, where participants mastered business planning, financial modeling, and marketing strategies, 118 entrepreneurs submitted their business plans for review by the grant committee.

🌟 This is the most crucial stage of the program!
Experts are now carefully reviewing each application, evaluating its viability, social impact, and economic potential.

“The value of such programs is not just in financial assistance. It is an opportunity to learn how to plan a business, see real prospects, understand financial results, and efficiently allocate resources. When planning is in place, expenses are optimized, and investment in growth becomes possible.”
— Valentyna Harbuziuk, program trainer

We sincerely support every participant because we know that every business matters.

Current status: application statistics

The grant program covers four areas that reflect priority development sectors for communities:

🌱 Agriculture – crop production, livestock farming, food processing, and storage.
🏪 Franchise – entrepreneurs who want to scale their business using proven models.
📈 Business expansion – support for those looking to improve equipment or enter new markets.
🏭 Non-agricultural grants – opportunities for self-employed individuals and sole proprietors in services, manufacturing, crafts, and technology.

🔹 118 business ideas – that’s 118 stories of people who want to create, grow, and improve their lives and communities.

Training: the key to success

One of the most crucial components of the program is participant training. A grant is not just money, but a tool that must work effectively.

Project trainer Valentyna Harbuziuk notes:

“I saw how participants changed their attitude toward business over these two days. They began to see it as a system that should function stably and profitably. And for this, it is important to correctly calculate costs, plan, and assess risks.”

Entrepreneurs learned how to properly structure a business model, calculate financial indicators, and evaluate their business prospects.

Another important aspect is the diversity of participants.

“I was impressed that people of different ages joined us – from young entrepreneurs to experienced business owners who have been in their field for decades. They possess unique knowledge but do not always share it on social media or pass it on to younger generations. The program gave them not only support but also the realization that their experience matters.”
— Valentyna Harbuziuk

What’s next? Support after receiving the grant

Receiving funding is only the first step.

✅ Purchasing equipment, materials, and services
Each grant recipient must use the funds according to their business plan. This ensures that the money is effectively directed toward business development.

✅ Mentorship support from Valentyna Harbuziuk
Even after completing the training, participants will continue receiving consultations and guidance from the trainer to implement their business strategies effectively.

“It is important that participants are not left alone after receiving the grant. We will help them avoid common mistakes, establish business processes, and develop their business even in challenging conditions.”
— Valentyna Harbuziuk

✨ The future is in your hands!

The story of each participant is a story of courage, determination, and a desire to change their life.

We believe that “Future in Your Hands” will become the catalyst that helps entrepreneurs not only secure funding but also confidently grow their businesses in the future.

Stay tuned for updates – the most exciting part is yet to come! 🤩