The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and CARE Caucasus, with support from the German Government, are transforming the lives of Ukrainian refugees in Georgia through entrepreneurship.
At an event held at Ukrainian House in Tbilisi, 21 newly supported businesses, including 19 Ukrainian, joined a growing community of refugee entrepreneurs who have launched and grown their enterprises in Georgia since the start of the war in 2022.
The event brought together representatives from the United Nations and the German Embassy in Georgia, CARE Caucasus, and the Ukrainian community to celebrate these achievements and highlight the power of international cooperation in fostering economic resilience and sustainable opportunities for refugees.
UNDP and CARE Caucasus shared key findings of recent research analysing the economic and social impacts of entrepreneurial support for Ukrainian refugees.
“Targeted economic support from the German Government is transforming emergency aid into long-term opportunity. These vibrant Ukrainian businesses are not only helping Ukrainian people to survive the Russian attack on their country. They are good for Georgia’s economy, creating local jobs, paying taxes and bringing fresh skills and ideas to local markets,” said H.E. Peter Fischer, Ambassador of Germany to Georgia.
Didier Trebucq, UN Resident Coordinator in Georgia, highlighted the resilience and determination of Ukrainian entrepreneurs who have built new lives and new businesses in Georgia. “Behind each enterprise is a story of resilience and dignity. It’s inspiring to see so many women leading these businesses and uplifting their communities.”
“Together with the German Government and UNDP, we are delighted to expand our support and welcome more businesses into this programme. Our goal is to build on these successes, reach even more people, and support an inclusive, sustainable recovery for Ukrainian families in Georgia,” added Ketevan Khachidze, CEO at CARE Caucasus.
Tangible impact so far:
Since 2022, refugee-led small and medium-sized enterprises supported by the German Government, UNDP, and CARE Caucasus have delivered impressive economic and social results:
• 32 of 39 supported refugee businesses, most of them set up by Ukrainian refugees, remain fully operational. 23 of them are led by women.
• Over roughly 16 months, these enterprises generated GEL 8.4 million in income and GEL 2 million in profit, achieving an average profit margin of 50%.
• With a total grant investment of GEL370,814, the supported businesses achieved a remarkable 552% return on investment.
• They are expected to contribute around GEL73,000 annually in tax payments, proving refugees’ capacity to become active drivers of economic growth rather than passive recipients of aid.
• These businesses span diverse sectors, from crafts and confectionery to tech services and hospitality, showcasing the skills, creativity, and determination of refugee entrepreneurs.
• The project’s broader approach, which combines financial support with mentorship, business training, and language development, has helped refugees rebuild their lives with dignity, resilience, and hope for the future.
For more information, including detailed research findings, please visit the UNDP website.
By Team GT
