Government introduces additional support for entrepreneurs in the context of the energy crisis, says Yulia Svyrydenko

The Government introduces additional support for entrepreneurs amidst the energy emergency, as announced by Yulia Svyrydenko.

According to the Prime Minister, small and medium-sized businesses continue to operate despite emergency power cuts caused by russian shelling, which results in additional costs. To help them get through this difficult period, the Cabinet of Ministers approved a support package at its meeting. It includes:

1. One-time financial assistance for small and medium-sized businesses for energy independence measures.

Individual entrepreneurs in groups 2–3 who work in socially important areas — catering establishments, pharmacies, coffee shops, grocery stores, bakeries and other essential establishments and services — will be eligible to receive a one-time payment of between UAH 7,500 and UAH 15,000.

The amount of the payment depends on the number of employees, provided that there is at least one employee.

Applications must be submitted via the Diia portal. The application will then be verified by partner banks, and the State Employment Service will transfer the funds.

The funding can be used to purchase and repair energy equipment, fuel for generators and pay for electricity services.

2. 0% loan for energy equipment for businesses.

Companies that meet the criteria of the 5-7-9% programme will have a chance to obtain a zero-interest loan for the purchase of generators and batteries.

The difference will be compensated by the state through the Business Development Fund.

Loans are provided by nearly 50 partner banks participating in the 5-7-9 programme for a term of up to 3 years. The maximum loan amount is up to UAH 10 million.

"We thank businesses for their resilience and responsibility. These decisions should help them continue to operate, perform their functions as points of resilience, and preserve jobs during the most challenging times for the energy sector," emphasised Yulia Svyrydenko.

Details and the start date of the programmes will be announced by the Ministry of Economy, Environment and Agriculture.