Rebuild Ukraine Forum 2026 / Panel VIIb / 22 October 2026

The panel explored investment opportunities in Ukraine’s Vinnytsia region, focusing on agricultural innovation, renewable energy, industrial development, export growth and cooperation with European partners. Elyzaveta Savchuk highlighted the region’s expanding export potential, with local products reaching 144 countries, and explained how the Regional Development Agency supports businesses in accessing international markets and obtaining the necessary certifications. She also presented Vinnytsia’s strengths in renewable energy, including solar power and biogas, as well as its potential for wind energy, mineral extraction and machinery manufacturing. Emerging technologies in agriculture, including cell cloning and in-vitro livestock production, were identified as areas of interest for further research and potential investment. Savchuk also emphasised the importance of industrial parks, workforce availability, vocational education and partnerships between businesses, universities and local authorities to encourage innovation and retain young talent.

Vladyslav Skalskyy underlined Vinnytsia’s strategic position at the centre of Ukrainian-controlled territory, highlighting its transport and food-logistics connections, railway hubs and relative proximity to the Romanian border. He stressed that municipalities must provide clear, accessible and investor-friendly services, while preparing for post-war challenges such as construction-material shortages and logistical constraints. Skalskyy also discussed the East Gate initiative, which aims to strengthen cooperation between regions and municipalities in Ukraine, Romania, Moldova and Bulgaria, creating opportunities for joint projects, investment and the coordination of essential services. He clarified that the initiative is a platform for cooperation, separate from any funding commitment.

Overall, the discussion presented Vinnytsia as a region with significant potential for reconstruction, industrial expansion and cross-border partnerships, and underlined the importance of practical infrastructure, skilled labour and effective local governance in turning investment opportunities into sustainable economic growth.