Ministry of Economy, Environment and Agriculture presents business opportunities within Ukraine Facility to EBA and ACC

On 9 September, a meeting took place between representatives of the Ministry of Economy, Environment and Agriculture of Ukraine and the American Chamber of Commerce in Ukraine (ACC). A similar event had previously been held with the European Business Association (EBA). During these meetings, the Ministry’s team presented key opportunities within the investment component of the Ukraine Investment Framework (UIF), aimed at stimulating investment and economic growth.

Participants were introduced to business opportunities and priority sectors of the UIF, including access to financing for SMEs, human capital development and social infrastructure, energy, transport, the agri-food sector, critical minerals, digital transformation, green transition, and strategic investments.

The EU allocates UIF funds through intermediaries such as International Financial Institutions (IFIs) and Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) via indirect management, providing credit guarantees to partner banks to reduce risks and stimulate investment in Ukraine. Funds are allocated for specific investment projects or project portfolios. By the end of 2025, 18 projects are planned to be implemented by partner banks.

The meeting also showcased the new European Flagship Fund, which will focus on investments in renewable energy, infrastructure, digital transformation, industrial modernisation, and critical materials, with operations set to begin by the end of 2026.

According to preliminary estimates by the European Commission, the UIF programme will attract up to EUR 40 billion in investments between 2024 and 2028. The programme includes guarantees to reduce risks for international financial organisations, bilateral development agencies, and Ukrainian banks financing public and private sector projects in Ukraine. It also incorporates grants for “blended financing” to reduce loan costs and provide technical support. At least 15% of UIF funds are directed towards financing public projects at the local level. The maximum implementation period for investment projects by the European Commission’s partner banks is three years.

EU funds are channelled through partner IFIs (such as the EBRD, IFC, and EIB) and European development banks (such as BGK, NRB, and KfW), which initiate projects in Ukraine.

Ukraine Investment Framework tools

The allocation of UIF funds is implemented through three streams: OPEN call (support for public and private sectors), Banking call (financing through Ukrainian banks with European Commission guarantees), and the European Investment Bank’s “Pocket”. The advantages of UIF programmes providing SME financing through banks include reduced own-contribution and collateral requirements, increased loan amounts, and lower borrowing costs. Currently, 12 international financial institutions are involved in implementing the UIF.

Among the current financing programmes for the private sector already in preparation:

• EBRD RES-DE-RISKING – supporting the development of green energy generation;
• EDFI Ukraine – direct investments in private companies;
• IFC HI Impact Equity – direct investments in private companies;
• NRB and BGK Programmes – focused on supporting mid-sized business projects.

Following the presentation, participants had the opportunity to ask questions about the possibilities offered by the Ukraine Investment Framework.