Author: Daria Danova
Photos provided by the interview participants
Tetiana Bulyhina, Head of Credit and Transaction Management, and Nadiia Kysliuk, Senior Manager of the International Clients Department, are not just partners of the project. They personally take part in selection committees, review business plans, and meet women who are starting over from scratch. We spoke with them about why this work matters — both for the project and for the country.
The project reflects values that are very close to ING — social sustainability, financial independence, and equal opportunities. All of this contributes to a long-term vision of strengthening the economic independence of families and communities, with a focus on supporting women.
Achieving financial independence is a powerful instrument for social change. It is not just a nice idea — it creates real long-term resilience.
Women in small communities across Ukraine often face limited infrastructure, low awareness of available support programs, and a lack of career guidance. Historically, these factors have contributed to women’s financial dependence.
But economic independence is not only about money. It is about choice, opportunities, personal growth, and responsibility for one’s own life. It is the ability to choose yourself, to feel safe and in control. Ultimately, it becomes a powerful driver of transformation within families and communities.
For us, it is important not just to provide funding, but to ensure that the program truly creates opportunities for meaningful change.
We look at several key factors. The first is the viability of the idea — whether there is a clear business model, target audience, demand, and a realistic structure of costs and revenues. The second is motivation and experience. The third is sustainability and social impact — whether the project can influence the community, create jobs, or scale over time. The fourth is the appropriate use of funding — the request should correspond to real needs for launching or developing the business.
And, of course, alignment with ING’s global values also matters.
Almost every project is unique in its own way, but several types stand out.
First are projects that grow out of personal experience. Women who were forced to relocate often start small businesses such as sewing, baking, handmade cosmetics, or workshops. When you hear the story of a woman whose husband is currently defending Ukraine, who has children to care for and had never worked before — and now she is starting from zero and building a profession — it is deeply inspiring.
We also remember projects focused on expanding existing businesses with clear expertise and a vision for scaling. Creative initiatives are especially memorable as well — when talent becomes a sustainable source of income.
Women in rural areas have far less access to education, employment opportunities, financing, and infrastructure. Their economic vulnerability is not due to a lack of ability, but rather a lack of opportunity.
One of our goals is to create equal starting conditions. Because such support changes not only a woman’s life, but also the future of her family and children.
It works like a ripple effect. When a woman starts a small business, she becomes an example for others.
People in the community begin to feel that if she managed to do it, they can do it too. The project helps create networks and communities where people support one another, share experiences, and grow together.
An economically active woman gains confidence in decision-making and a stronger voice in her community. Gradually, she challenges stereotypes about “traditional roles” and builds a financially stable foundation for her family.
Effective partnership is always about results and impact. It is also about setting an example for other potential sponsors and scaling positive change.
For us, it is critically important to work with a reliable partner that operates transparently and professionally, with clear processes and reporting. Another key element is flexibility. We live in a time of war, when needs change every day and require quick responses. Convictus is exactly that kind of partner.
Resilience and strength are the first things that stand out.
These are women who have experienced the loss of their homes, displacement, changes in profession, and separation from loved ones — yet they still find the strength to start over. What inspires us is their courage — even at the age of 60, some women decide to take control of their lives.
They demonstrate a strong desire to learn, adapt, and take responsibility for their future. Another remarkable quality is solidarity — instead of competing, they support one another.
Starting from scratch is always difficult. But it is through perseverance and self-belief that new opportunities appear.
We wish them faith in themselves, perseverance, and determination.
Allow yourself to make mistakes — small setbacks help build experience. Use every opportunity the project offers, and do not be afraid to ask questions. There are no wrong questions.
Be proud of your achievements — small successes lead to big changes. And most importantly, keep moving forward. It is impossible not to succeed if you take a step toward your goal every single day.
It means creating a space where women can share experiences, learn, grow, and build their future.
It is about believing in one’s own strength and receiving support during the most difficult times. Over five years, the project has helped build a powerful community of women who support one another, and today it continues to expand into new communities.
This is exactly the kind of transformation the project was created to achieve.
The Dream. Implement. Achieve. project is implemented by Convictus Ukraine with the support of ING Bank Ukraine.