On 6 February 2026, the Society, War & Recovery Research Centre (SWRRC)
participated in the Ukrainian Business Community Meet-up in Manchester, an event
that brought together Ukrainian entrepreneurs, founders, and community leaders to
exchange experiences, strengthen professional networks, and support community
initiatives.
The event, held at Manchester Central Library, created an important platform for
dialogue between Ukrainian-led organisations, local businesses, and community
initiatives operating across Greater Manchester.
The Centre was represented by its CEO, Dr Halyna Hrynyshyn, who attended the
event together with Natalia Kuchmak.
Building Connections within the Ukrainian Business Community
The meet-up created an inspiring space for networking and discussion about
entrepreneurship, community development, and collaboration within the Ukrainian
diaspora in the UK.
SWRRC representatives had the opportunity to engage with several inspiring
individuals and organisations, including:
- Mariana Lukovetska, the organiser of the event, whose initiative created an
important space for connection and dialogue within the community. - Yuliia Ivanova, representing KRYLA CULTURE CIC, who shared insights
into cultural and social entrepreneurship. - Hanna Zomostna, CEO of Step to Empower C.I.C., who spoke about initiatives
focused on community empowerment. - Representatives of Florence Nightingale Suites B&B and other local
Ukrainian-led businesses.
A particularly memorable moment of the evening was meeting Vadym Granovskiy,
who shared his journey of building a coffee business in the UK. Participants also had
the opportunity to see his mobile coffee shop in operation, which served as a practical
example of entrepreneurial resilience and determination.
Key Insights and Outcomes
Participation in this event provided SWRRC with valuable insights into the evolving
Ukrainian entrepreneurial ecosystem in the United Kingdom. The discussions
highlighted several important themes:
- strengthening professional connections within the Ukrainian business
community in Greater Manchester - learning from real entrepreneurial experiences and business case studies
- identifying opportunities for collaboration and development of social initiatives
- recognising the critical role of mutual support in building resilient communities
Institutional Support
The event was organised with the support of the Build a Business in Greater
Manchester programme, a UK Government initiative supporting entrepreneurship, in
partnership with the Business & IP Centre and Generator.
Strengthening Community Engagement
For SWRRC, participation in such initiatives is an important part of strengthening
ties between research institutions, community organisations, and entrepreneurial
networks. Engagement with these ecosystems contributes to a deeper understanding
of the social and economic dynamics shaping Ukrainian communities in the UK.
The Centre values the opportunity to reconnect with partners, meet new collaborators,
and continue supporting initiatives that strengthen community resilience and
cooperation.