GRANT OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED BUSINESSES IN THE CONDITIONS OF WAR IN UKRAINE: ADVANTAGES AND DIFFICULTIES

Abstract

The main grant possibilities for the development of small and medium-sized businesses in the conditions of war in Ukraine are considered. The main advantages received by business representatives in wartime, using grant tools and directions of their application for their development are outlined: this is an opportunity to introduce innovative solutions into business processes, expand the range of manufactured products or services provided, start own business from scratch or develop already existing business, development of the export potential of business, implementation of measures for products promotion. It was emphasized that, despite the numerous advantages of using grant, non-refundable resources and the presence of such experience in a large number of Ukrainian small and medium-sized enterprises, the vast majority of business representatives do not use these alternative resources. It was determined that the use of grant resources by representatives of small and medium-sized businesses does not occur both because of the latter's lack of understanding of what grants are and what they can be used for, as well as due to caution and difficulties associated with the process of attracting grant tools, which were considered from the point of view of entrepreneurs. It was concluded that the involvement and use of grant tools of international and national donors by representatives of small and medium-sized businesses in war conditions is one of the most important prerequisites for business development and strengthening the economy of Ukraine, and overcoming difficulties is possible under the condition of high-quality informational, explanatory and educational activities of the executive authorities, local self-government, funds, grant organizations and programs. The importance of combining promotional activities with educational activities of a practical direction to increase the competences of entrepreneurs in monitoring the information field for current grant resources, adapting business needs/problems to the priorities of a specific donor and developing high-quality applications and business plans was emphasized.