ARRKO and Byshiv Community: Strategic Partnership for the Future

The Kyiv Regional Development Agency continues to deeply study the needs of territorial communities, so that together with local authorities, business and the public it can find solutions based not only on resources, but also on human potential.

Byshiv community today is an example of how local initiatives can respond to complex challenges. Despite significant infrastructure losses, the community shows a determination to move forward and create new points of growth: from quality conditions for education to opportunities for investors and tourism initiatives.

Main areas discussed during the focus group:

• Education and child safety
  At present, the local kindergarten cannot operate due to the lack of a shelter. Creating a safe space for children is among the key tasks that require the attention of partners and investors.

• Local business as the foundation of the community’s economy
  Byshiv has a stable economic base, formed, for example, by:
  – agricultural farms
  – mushroom-growing enterprises
  – juice production

• Natural resources and tourism development
  The community is actively working to turn its natural advantages into tourist appeal:
  – an ostrich farm — already a well-known tourist location
  – pine forests and clean air — a base for developing recreation
  – a clay quarry and historical heritage — the foundation for excursion routes
  – the “Kupalske Kolo” festival — a multi-day cultural event with excursions that brings together the community and guests

• Infrastructure and investment
  Among the initiatives already being implemented or in development:
  – an industrial park — a space for business
  – the process of registering an eco-park in Yablunivka

Byshiv community is shaping its future on the basis of clear goals and a determination to change. Its strength lies in the interaction between local authorities, business and active residents. It is precisely this cohesion and strategic vision that allow the community not just to talk about recovery, but to take it to a new level of development.

We sincerely thank the community’s leadership, representatives of business, the civil society sector and all meeting participants for a constructive dialogue, openness and real ideas that are already becoming plans.

The focus groups are being carried out with the grant support of the International Renaissance Foundation.