Following the success of our first entrepreneurship programme for displaced young Ukrainians, Youth Business International (YBI) and our member Youth Business Poland (YBP), with support from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), launched Business Bridge — a new Bootcamp initiative designed to help Ukrainian entrepreneurs thrive in Poland.
About the Initiative
The war in Ukraine has forced millions to leave their homes and livelihoods. Poland hosts more than 900,000 refugees, many of whom are highly skilled and eager to rebuild their businesses. This Bootcamp provided a platform for young Ukrainian entrepreneurs to restart, connect, and grow — contributing to both their host communities and Ukraine’s long-term economic recovery.
Over a three-week sprint, participants joined intensive business Bootcamps in Warsaw and Gdańsk, gaining practical tools and mentorship to develop and scale their ventures. The programme connected them with Polish entrepreneurs, innovators, and mentors, fostering collaboration, resilience, and innovation. Most participants were women entrepreneurs determined to restart their ventures and contribute to their host communities.
What We Delivered
- Training and mentoring on business modelling, marketing, and resilience
- Bootcamps in Warsaw and Gdańsk engaging over 50 participants (45 women, 4 men)
- 10 finalists were selected for business pitching and continued support
- 100% of participants reported increased business confidence and skills
- 83% plan to create new jobs within the next two years
Innovative and Impactful Ventures
Finalists developed diverse and high-potential businesses across sectors such as AI, wellness, fashion, gastronomy, and healthcare — from an AI-powered job platform to a multilingual dental clinic and holistic wellness studios.
Their solutions demonstrate creativity, adaptability, and social impact, providing employment and supporting community integration in Poland.
This initiative is part of YBI’s global commitment to fostering economic empowerment and resilience among refugees and displaced entrepreneurs, through localised, high-impact programmes.