International Exchange of Experience in Poland

The Kyiv Regional Development Agency continues to acquire new tools and mechanisms to support the development of Ukrainian business and communities. Thus, as part of the project “Support for the Development of Entrepreneurship and Competitiveness of Ukrainian Regions”, the Agency’s Deputy Director Olena Stadniichuk joined a trip to Poland to get acquainted with and study the working principles of similar Polish institutions, as well as the experience of foreign colleagues in the fields of economic development and interaction with local authorities.

In Krakow, participants had the opportunity to learn from representatives of the Lesser Poland Regional Development Agency, who not only shared their case studies and key working principles, but also spoke more about the activities of the Agency and local self-government bodies aimed at supporting Ukraine. In addition, they stressed the need to create a favourable business environment, as well as to develop and support young entrepreneurs and provide the necessary resources for start-ups and small businesses.

In Warsaw, the Ukrainian delegation took part in a workshop run by the Ministry of Funds and Regional Policy, where they discussed change management and methods of working in crisis situations. During the workshop, trainer Svitlana Lystopadska and the participants discussed what a leader should be like today, how to help a team close the loop of stress response, and how to create a systematic approach to change.

The Project Steering Group also exchanged results of project activities and presented preliminary plans for the coming year, including benefits for Ukrainian start-ups. Ukrainian regional development agencies, including the Kyiv one, added their proposals for consideration. The project has been extended for 3 years!

It is worth noting that such visits are not only a good opportunity to exchange experience and gain new knowledge, but also an important step in building communication and partnerships with international colleagues, who are not only ready to actively help Ukraine, but are also committed to fruitful cooperation and strengthening the project capacity of the regions. It is encouraging to know that we can rely on support in the European integration processes as well.

This project is implemented in Ukraine by the Ministry of Funds and Regional Policy of Poland and co-financed by the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs under the Polish Aid for Development programme.