Czechia Launches Mentoring Program for Ukrainians Wishing to Start a Business

The Czech Republic has launched the DoToho project for the UA community in a bid to demonstrate its commitment to supporting individuals affected by the war in Ukraine.

By providing mentoring support from top Czech business mentors to Ukrainian managers of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), this initiative aims to empower and uplift those who have been impacted by the conflict.

In a recent statement, the European Commission has noted that mentoring programs can be incredibly valuable, as they allow experienced professionals to share their knowledge, insights, and guidance with others who can benefit from their expertise.

According to the EU, through the DoToho for UA project, Ukrainian managers in SMEs will have the opportunity to receive support from mentors who can help them navigate challenges, improve their business strategies, and enhance their leadership skills.

“The project is open to Ukrainian citizens interested in starting a business in the Czech Republic. Participants are assigned a “buddy” and a customised training programme is set up. They will gain know-how about Czech business, have the opportunity to participate in educational events, and be connected with Ukrainian entrepreneurs in the Czech Republic,” the Commission says in its statement.

The inclusion of a buddy system is a valuable aspect of the project. Having a dedicated mentor or buddy can offer personalized guidance and support to participants, helping them navigate the challenges of starting a business in a new country. This one-on-one interaction allows for a more tailored approach to mentorship, where participants can receive advice specific to their individual circumstances.

By offering a comprehensive training program, the project ensures that participants gain the necessary know-how about Czech business practices, regulations, and market dynamics.

Furthermore, Czechia has demonstrated its support for Ukraine not only through business mentoring programs but also through various initiatives aimed at assisting Ukrainian refugees. The announcement of new rules regarding housing and free health insurance for Ukrainian refugees is an example of such support.

The implementation of these changes, which came into effect on April 1 of this year, reflect the commitment of Czechia to provide assistance and support to those who have been forced to flee their homes due to the conflict in Ukraine. By offering housing options and free health insurance, the Czech government aims to alleviate the challenges faced by Ukrainian refugees and help them rebuild their lives in a safe and stable environment.

The specific provision stating that the maximum duration for free accommodation for Ukrainians is 150 days from the date of receiving temporary protection indicates the timeframe within which individuals can avail themselves of this support.