Opportunity

Fostering Economic and Social Wellbeing of Ukrainian Refugees in Poland and Germany through Opportunity Self-Employment Social Innovation Model

Project OPPORTUNITY is here to turn challenges into chances – helping Ukrainian refugees in Poland and Germany build thriving businesses and brighter futures.

Project Summary

Self-employed Ukrainian refugees in Poland and Germany encounter various challenges, from limited business experience, management skills to lack of supportive ecosystem and psychosocial distress. Business Development Service Providers (BDS), as one of the key supporters, often lack understanding of their needs and expertise to tailor their services.

Project OPPORTUNITY aims to develop sustainable solutions by adapting and applying the SIM – Opportunity Self-Employment model to Poland and Germany. This will enhance support for Ukrainian refugees and improve connections with BDS stakeholders, thus fostering social change where institutional frameworks are lacking.

By bridging the gap between refugees and BDS providers, the project focuses on enhancing the support system and fostering social cohesion.

Through research, curriculum development, and capacity-building, the consortium will adapt the Opportunity Self-Employment model to the needs of Ukrainian refugees. Through stakeholder involvement and targeted communication and advocacy, the project aims to create sensitive and contextually relevant solutions for all refugees.

Duration Period: 18 months / April 2025 – October 2026

Specific objectives & actions

  1. Adaptation of Social Innovation Model (SIM)

ACTION: Conduct comprehensive research in Poland and Germany to evaluate existing support services for self-employed Ukrainian refugees, identify gaps, and adapt the Opportunity Self-
Employment model. Use findings to develop a clear guidance report with practical, evidence-based recommendations.

2. Development of Capacity  Building Methodology for BDS Providers

ACTION: Use research insights to develop a complete training methodology and curriculum for self-employed Ukrainian refugees and BDS providers, including a Training of Trainers manual, to enable effective support for refugee entrepreneurs.

3. Capacity Building for BDS Providers and Refugees

ACTION: Deliver training for BDS staff and implement practical roll-out activities. Equip trained providers to offer Ukrainian refugees sessions that strengthen business skills, build confidence,
and expand self-employment opportunities.

4. Stakeholder Engagement and Awareness Raising

ACTION: Engage key stakeholders in Poland and Germany through events, media outreach, and a closing conference to raise awareness of refugees’ needs, promote the adapted SIM model,
and strengthen collaboration within the socio-economic ecosystem.

OPPORTUNITY project is co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are, however, those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Social Fund Agency. Neither the European Union nor the Granting Authority can be held responsible for them.