Supporting Ukrainian Refugee Entrepreneurs: Lessons from the Opportunity Project

How can support for Ukrainian refugee entrepreneurs be made more effective in the long term?

These questions were at the heart of the closing conference of the Opportunity Project, held last week at the European Parliament Liaison Office in Warsaw. The event brought together project partners, practitioners, and stakeholders to reflect on 18 months of collaboration supporting Ukrainian entrepreneurs in Poland and Germany.

Discussions highlighted how the needs of refugee entrepreneurs have evolved since 2022 and why support programmes must adapt accordingly. Participants emphasised that entrepreneurs in Poland and Germany face different challenges, requiring localised approaches rather than one-size-fits-all solutions.

The conference also underscored the importance of going beyond business registration. Entrepreneurs often need continued guidance as they grow their businesses, including tailored legal and tax advice, access to customers, and opportunities to connect with local business networks. Another key takeaway was the need for longer-term support and stronger cooperation between public institutions, civil society organisations, and private-sector actors.

While the conference marked the formal conclusion of the project, the work continues. In the coming weeks, the Opportunity Project will publish two practical resources: a comprehensive manual for business development consultants working with refugee entrepreneurs and a guide for Ukrainian entrepreneurs navigating the business environment in Poland and Germany.