The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), part of the UN system, has approved its first comprehensive project in Ukraine — DOBRO (“Development of Business and Opportunities for Rural Areas”). The initiative will provide $15 million to support the development of small and medium-sized businesses in rural communities. This was announced by the Ministry of Economy, Environment and Agriculture.
The project aims to form sustainable production chains in the rural sector and expand economic opportunities for the population. Particular attention is paid to small producers from priority social groups — veterans, women and youth. The government emphasizes that these categories play a key role in local economic development today, so supporting their initiatives is an important component of post-war recovery.DOBRO provides not only financial support, but also measures aimed at increasing the resilience of the agricultural sector to climate and environmental risks. This includes combating soil degradation, water scarcity, and other problems that have worsened during the war. The project concept is consistent with the Ukrainian Agricultural Development Strategy until 2030 and is consistent with European approaches to rural development.The ministry notes that the initiative will complement existing support programs for farmers. Since 2022, the state has allocated 184 million euros to assist more than 202,000 producers. Separate mechanisms — in particular, the updated program for farmers working on reclaimed and war-affected lands — remain important tools for supporting the agricultural sector.The new IFAD project should strengthen the economic potential of Ukrainian villages, create additional business opportunities, and contribute to the long-term recovery of rural areas.
Source: https://finteco.com.ua/article/27820-proiekt-dobro-ukrainski-sela-otrymaiut-vid-oon-15-mln-na-rozvytok-biznesu/
