On Tuesday, May 20, the grand finale of a business idea competition for Ukrainian women living in Estonia took place at the Jaan Poska House. Now in its third year, the initiative aims to support Ukrainian women’s entrepreneurship and increase their visibility and economic activity in Estonia.

According to Margot Roose, Deputy Mayor of Tallinn for Entrepreneurship, Ukrainian women entrepreneurs are a powerful example of how determination and creativity can thrive even when adapting to a new environment and culture. “Every company and every idea enriches not only our economy but also the cultural diversity of Tallinn. Together, we are creating a stronger and more inclusive city, where all residents have the opportunity to pursue entrepreneurship,” Roose said.

This year’s competition attracted 13 inspiring business ideas, ranging from social enterprises to the creative and service sectors. Five finalists presented their business plans to an international jury.

The winner of the competition was Olha Lavrenko, who offers high-level 3D modeling and printing services in Estonia, focusing on precision engineering and advanced composite materials. Her goal is to capture 10% of the local market by offering top-quality design and printing solutions for individuals and businesses.
Second place went to Dariia Osiik, who is developing a bilingual digital media platform to connect and empower the Ukrainian women's diaspora.
Third place was awarded to Alina Kyselova, who is launching an innovative weekend childcare center in Tallinn for children aged 2–7. Her service provides flexible, short-term care in a safe and creative multilingual environment, particularly supporting Ukrainian mothers and families who lack a local support network.

Opening remarks at the event were delivered by Tallinn Deputy Mayor Margot Roose, Chair of the Estonian Parliament’s Social Affairs Committee Signe Riisalo, French Ambassador to Estonia H.E. Emmanuel Mignot, and Ukrainian Ambassador Maksym Kononenko.

The jury was chaired by Max Krupyshev, CEO of CoinsPaid, and also included Evely Helenius (Silverspoon), Lavly Perling, Merle Laidro (Edelstein), Katrin Šenkevitš (Tehnopol), and Violaine Champetier de Ribes, President of the French-Estonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Supported by the City of Tallinn’s Ukraine Programme, the competition final serves as an inspiring gathering for the community, business partners, and visionary Ukrainian women who wish to contribute to Estonia’s economy and society. In addition to developing business skills, the competition also aims to boost participants’ confidence, sense of belonging, and integration.

The competition is organized by the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Estonia (CCIFE) in cooperation with the City of Tallinn, the Red Cross, Mövenpick, and CoinsPaid.

More information about the event is available here.

Photo credit: Liis Ambos.