On February 17, the Latvian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LTRK) and the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA) organized a webinar entitled "Gateway to Ukraine", which brought together Latvian and Ukrainian entrepreneurs, representatives of institutions and industry experts with the aim of strengthening bilateral cooperation and identifying new business opportunities in the Ukrainian market.
The event was opened by the Latvian Ambassador to Ukraine, H.E. Andrejs Pildegovičs, and the Ukrainian Embassy's authorized representative, Yuriy Zaharchuk, who emphasized the close partnership between the two countries, mutual trust, and the importance of economic stability in the current geopolitical situation. The role of Latvian entrepreneurs in Ukraine's reconstruction and the development of long-term economic cooperation was highlighted.
LIAA support for entrepreneurs in Ukraine
Galina Bukovska, head of the LIAA representative office in Ukraine, presented the current business support opportunities, including Latvian state support instruments, as well as international funds and financial mechanisms available to companies operating in Ukraine.
Special attention was paid to the work of the LIAA representative office in Kyiv, practical support in market development and export promotion opportunities, including the tools offered by the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) for finding cooperation partners and developing innovation.
Entrepreneurs' experience stories: challenges and opportunities
During the webinar, Latvian and Ukrainian entrepreneurs shared their practical experience of operating in the Ukrainian market – from legal and logistical aspects to partner selection and risk management. It was emphasized that, despite the challenges, the Ukrainian market offers significant development opportunities, especially in the areas of infrastructure, technology, energy, and security.
Dual-use and security innovations – new dimensions of cooperation
Special attention was paid to dual-use and security innovations, which are currently becoming one of the most important areas of cooperation. Participants were introduced to Ukraine's BRAVE1 support initiative, as well as NATO's UNITE BRAVE program and Horizon Europe dual-use project opportunities.
These instruments provide new funding and development opportunities for technology and security companies in both Latvia and Ukraine, promoting innovation transfer, international partnership building, and joint project implementation.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
