A few years ago, a woman in a managerial position in Ukrainian business could seem more the exception than the rule. However, the war changed everything – the economy, society, and the role of women in it. They not only took on traditional family responsibilities, but also became drivers of change, running companies, starting their own businesses, and making strategic decisions in the most challenging environments.
Often these women were forced to act not according to the call of the heart, but out of necessity to survive – for themselves, for their children, for their country. Many took responsibility for the family business after the mobilization of men, others started from scratch, daring to take bold steps. From sewing workshops that began to manufacture tactical equipment, to technological startups that found new niches in the conditions of war, women are increasingly becoming the face of Ukrainian entrepreneurship.
Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, the share of women in leadership positions has steadily increased. Every third business in Ukraine is headed by women, and this trend deserves special attention. After all, it is not only about numbers – it is a story about strength, adaptability and willingness to take responsibility at the most critical moments.
As they testify data According to the Ministry of Economy of Ukraine, women are increasingly opening their own businesses. If in 2023, 56% of new enterprises were founded by women, then already in 2024 this indicator increased to 59%. This shows that Ukrainian women are not only looking for new opportunities for self-realization, but are also becoming the economic locomotive of the country in wartime conditions.
The spheres in which women most often open businesses are quite diverse. Some continue to work in traditional directions – in the field of services, education, medicine, restaurant business. But at the same time, the number of women launching sophisticated technology startups, engaged in manufacturing, or participating in export development is growing.
Obtaining grants for business development
Women are also active participants in state and international business support grant programs. For example, the share of women among the winners in 2023 within the framework of the “Own Business” program constituted 57%, and in 2024 it increased to 61%. This means that the majority of grant funds are directed specifically to support women’s entrepreneurial initiatives.
Among the projects that received funding, you can find a wide variety of ideas: from the opening of small factories and craft workshops to innovative technological developments. For many women, the grant became not only an opportunity to start their own business, but also a tool for preserving the economic stability of their family in wartime conditions.
Involvement of women in traditionally male spheres
One of the most noticeable trends in recent years is the active entry of women into the industry, which was previously dominated by men. As reported Reuters, due to the mobilization of men, women began to work in such sectors as construction, transport, and metallurgy.
A few years ago, it was rare to see a woman behind the wheel of a truck or on a construction site. Instead, today they work as crane operators, engineers, operators of logistics systems. Some of them come to these positions under duress – due to the loss of a breadwinner or the need for a stable income. However, many women purposefully choose these professions, seeking to change the idea of ”male” and “female” work.
Ukrainian women are also becoming more visible in the military-industrial complex – working in the production of drones, technical equipment for the army, developing engineering solutions for the defense sector.
Such changes indicate an important transformation not only of the business environment, but also of the public perception of women’s role in the economy. Women in Ukraine are no longer limited by traditional professional frameworks – they confidently master new areas, proving that they can be successful in any field.
Every third Ukrainian business is headed by women
It is about 449 thousand companies, which indicates a steady trend towards the growth of female entrepreneurship. Despite the challenges of the war, women not only maintain their presence in business, but also actively develop it.
Infographic: IA “FACT”
According to the data Ukrinform 12,283 new companies led by women appeared in Ukraine in 2024. This is 23.9% more than in 2022, and it indicates the increased role of women in the economy during the war.
The largest companies run by women
The rating included enterprises from the fuel, metallurgical, trade and agro-industrial industries.
“Okko-Express” (74.8 billion UAH), “Okko-Business” (27.3 billion UAH) – fuel trade remains one of the most profitable areas for female managers.
“AV Metal Group” (UAH 21.9 billion) – women also enter heavy industry, which until recently was considered a “male” sphere.
“Chips Club” (3 billion hryvnias) is evidence of success in the food industry and agro-processing.
Such a presence of women in strategic industries speaks of their ability to manage complex businesses even in times of economic crises.
Infographic: IA “FACT”
Businesses and regions where the number of female directors has significantly increased
In the field of IT, a growth of 69% is observed – this is an especially important trend, since the IT industry is the driver of the Ukrainian economy. Female top managers in agriculture increased by 25% – the war contributed to a shift in business focus, and women are actively engaged in the agricultural sector. The number of female directors in construction increased by 17% – a somewhat unusual but very important indicator. Infrastructure recovery needs effective management, and women are beginning to play a role in this.
Such statistics demonstrate the expansion of horizons for women who master fields that are not typical for them.
The highest level of representation of women in management positions is observed in the frontline regions:
37% of female directors are in Donetsk region
35% – in the Kherson region
34% – in Luhansk region.
This is an important indicator, because women not only support the economy, but also do it in the most difficult conditions of war. Many men are mobilized, and therefore women actively take on management functions. There is also a significant increase in the number of women in management positions in other regions:
+24% – in Poltava Oblast
+18% – in Khmelnytskyi region
+11% – in Kyiv region
As we can see, such changes indicate how women are increasingly influencing decision-making and conducting business in various regions.
Is there currently a glass ceiling for women in Ukrainian business?
In Ukraine, as in many other countries, there has always been a so-called “glass ceiling”, which limited the opportunities for women to advance to high management positions. This was usually reflected in a lower chance of promotion than men, even with equal qualifications and achievements. However, during the war, businesses became more flexible in the search for leaders and focused on the actual result, neglecting issues of gender. During the war, women often take an active part in volunteer movements, organizations involved in humanitarian aid. This creates an opportunity for women to demonstrate their leadership qualities in new areas and gain recognition. Women who have experience in crisis management or social initiatives are becoming important figures for adapting companies to new conditions. All this contributes to reducing the influence of the “glass ceiling”, although it does not completely remove the issue of gender inequality in the labor market.
