Minister Mary Ng’s Business Mission to Ukraine – June 26th and 27th, 2024

CUCC President Zenon Potichny Accompanies Minister Mary Ng on Business Mission to Ukraine

This week, CUCC President Zenon Potichny was honored to accompany Mary Ng, Canada’s Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade, and Economic Development, on a pivotal business mission to Ukraine. As the modernized Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement (CUFTA) prepares to take effect on July 1st, this visit lays the groundwork for mutual success and prosperity among Canadian and Ukrainian businesses, workers, and communities during Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts.

The delegation’s presence in Ukraine underscored the shared commitment to fostering trade, investment, and economic growth. The modernized CUFTA will enable businesses from both countries to capitalize on enhanced opportunities, stronger investor protections, and a more level playing field.

Minister Ng reaffirmed Canada’s economic support in countering Russia’s illegal aggression and emphasized the private sector’s pivotal role in Ukraine’s recovery efforts. Engaging with Ukrainian leaders, the delegation strengthened partnerships and reaffirmed Canada’s steadfast support—militarily, economically, and politically. 🇺🇦

Key Highlights:

1. Meeting with Yuliia Svyrydenko:
The business delegation met with Yuliia Svyrydenko, Ukraine’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy, celebrating the modernized CUFTA and exploring how Canadian firms can contribute to Ukraine’s reconstruction.

2. Business Roundtable:
They participated in a candid discussion with Ukrainian CEOs and executives, organized by CEO Club Ukraine in partnership with CUCC, addressing mutual challenges and opportunities.

3. Canada Day Celebration:
The delegation attended a special Canada Day event organized by the Embassy of Canada to Ukraine, hosted by Toronto-Kyiv in cooperation with CUCC. This event celebrated the deep cultural ties and shared values between our nations, featuring speeches and networking opportunities that strengthen our bonds of friendship and cooperation.

This mission has not only solidified existing ties but also opened new avenues for collaboration, ensuring that the relationship between Canada and Ukraine continues to thrive and support Ukraine’s journey towards recovery and growth.

 

18th Annual Golf Tournament – June 25th, 2024

What an Incredible Day at the 18th Annual CUCC Golf Tournament!

On June 25th, 2024, the 18th Annual CUCC Golf Tournament was a resounding success, thanks to the enthusiastic participation and unwavering support from everyone involved. This year’s event was filled with exceptional golf, great company, and endless fun, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

From the moment participants arrived, the excitement was palpable. The pristine fairways and perfect weather set the stage for a day of friendly competition and camaraderie. Golfers of all skill levels came together to enjoy the game, support a good cause, and foster community spirit.

We extend our deepest gratitude to all the participants who made this event truly special. Your enthusiasm and sportsmanship were the heart and soul of the tournament. Your support means the world to us and is the driving force behind the success of our event.

Our event would not have been possible without the generous contributions from our sponsors. We are incredibly grateful for their support and dedication to our cause.

Corporate Sponsors:
– Caravan Group of Companies
– Carpedia International
– Temerty Foundation
– Aecon Group Inc.
– Himelfarb Proszanski LLP

Gold Sponsors:
– AV-CANADA
– Ukrainian Credit Union Limited
– BCU Financial Group
– Consultec Ltd.
– Reps AAA Hockey Club

Silver Sponsor:
– Meest Canada

Golf Cart Sponsor:
– MNP

Hole Sponsors:
– BucketList Travelers
– CEM Insurance Brokers Ltd.
– SoftServe
– Mitchell, Bardyn & Zalucky
– Web4you Inc.
– A. Komarnycky Professional Corporation
– Pallett Valo LLP
– UNO Bistro
– Stoyanovskyy Architects Inc.
– Painting Solutions
– Slava Solutions Inc.
– Skira & Associates Ltd.
– Woodstock Hyundai
– Maleo Custom Homes

Proceeds from this event will be donated to Unite with Ukraine initiative to support the brave men and women defending their freedom and land.

Your contributions helped make this tournament a reality and ensured that everyone involved had an unforgettable experience.

As we reflect on this year’s success, we eagerly anticipate many more years of golfing fun and community spirit. We look forward to seeing all of you again next year for another fantastic tournament filled with more great moments and lasting memories.

Thank you once again to all our participants, sponsors, and supporters. Here’s to another year of golf, camaraderie, and community!

CUCC Leadership Attends Ukraine Recovery Conference 2024: Mobilizing Support for Ukraine’s Future

On June 11th and 12th, CUCC President Zenon Potichny and Vice President Mark Vytvytskyy attended the Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC2024). Held under the inspiring motto “United in defence. United in recovery. Stronger together,” the event was dedicated to discussing Ukraine’s rapid recovery and long-term reconstruction following Russia’s full-scale war of aggression.

A Historic Conference for Ukraine’s Future

As the first URC to be hosted in an EU member state, URC2024 marked a significant moment in Ukraine’s recovery journey. This conference came at a pivotal time, emphasizing the importance of unity and broad stakeholder engagement. The event upheld the Lugano principles, which are critical to Ukraine’s reform progress, economic resilience, and EU accession process. These principles outline the framework for international cooperation in Ukraine’s recovery and emphasize transparency, accountability, and inclusivity.

Key Outcomes and Objectives of URC2024

URC2024 focused on several crucial outcomes aimed at supporting Ukraine’s recovery and rebuilding efforts:

1. Mobilizing International Support: The conference brought together a diverse group of international stakeholders to rally support for Ukraine’s recovery, reconstruction, reform, and modernization. This collective effort underscores the global commitment to Ukraine’s future.

2. Providing Emergency Assistance: Immediate needs arising from the ongoing conflict were addressed through the provision of emergency assistance. This included essential humanitarian aid and support for displaced populations.

3. Implementing Rapid Recovery Projects: The conference emphasized the importance of initiating rapid recovery projects to restore critical infrastructure and services. These projects are designed to quickly stabilize affected regions and set the stage for longer-term development.

4. Creating Attractive Conditions for Business Investments: To encourage business investments in Ukraine, the conference highlighted the creation of favorable conditions for both domestic and international investors. This is crucial for stimulating economic growth and fostering innovation.

5. Engaging Civil Society: Recognizing the vital role of civil society in the reconstruction process, URC2024 promoted active engagement with local communities and organizations. This ensures that recovery efforts are inclusive and reflect the needs and aspirations of the Ukrainian people.

CUCC’s Commitment to Ukraine’s Reconstruction

The Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce (CUCC) is proud to play an active role in engaging Canadian businesses in Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts. By fostering strong bilateral relations and promoting investment opportunities, CUCC is supporting Ukraine’s journey towards a resilient and prosperous future.

President Zenon Potichny and Vice President Mark Vytvytskyy emphasized the importance of international collaboration in these challenging times. Their participation in URC2024 underscores CUCC’s dedication to contributing to Ukraine’s recovery and long-term development.

Looking Ahead…

As Ukraine continues to navigate the complexities of recovery and rebuilding, the outcomes of URC2024 provide a solid foundation for future efforts. The unity and resolve demonstrated at this conference are powerful reminders that, together, we can support Ukraine in building a brighter, more resilient future.

CUCC remains committed to its mission of enhancing economic ties between Canada and Ukraine, ensuring that both nations benefit from mutual growth and cooperation. Through continued engagement and support, CUCC aims to contribute to Ukraine’s emergence as a strong, thriving nation on the global stage.

 

 

CUCC Vice President of Innovation and Technology Mark Vytvytskyy Shares Insights at U-Nation Conference

Mark Vytvytskyy, MBA, MD, and Vice President of Innovation and Technology at the Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce (CUCC), recently had the honor of participating in the Innovation to Rebuild Ukraine Opening Panel at the U-Nation Conference. Joining a distinguished panel including Yan Shapiro, Vira Savchenko, Combiz Richard Abdolrahimi, Esq., J.D., LL.M., and Orest Tokač, Mark shared his expertise and vision on several pivotal topics essential for fostering innovation and rebuilding efforts between Canada and Ukraine.

Key Topics Discussed

1. Cross-Border Innovation Hubs

Mark emphasized the importance of creating collaborative spaces where Canadian and Ukrainian expertise can converge. These innovation hubs would serve as incubators for new ideas, technologies, and business ventures, allowing both countries to leverage their unique strengths. By fostering a collaborative environment, these hubs could accelerate technological advancements and economic growth.

2. Joint Ventures and Funding Initiatives

Exploring avenues for mutual investment, Mark highlighted the potential of joint ventures and funding initiatives. By pooling resources and sharing risks, Canadian and Ukrainian businesses can drive innovation and bring groundbreaking products and services to market more efficiently. This approach not only enhances financial stability but also encourages a more diverse and resilient economic landscape.

3. Talent Exchange Programs

One of the critical elements Mark discussed was the implementation of talent exchange programs. These programs are designed to foster cross-cultural learning experiences for professionals from both nations. By exchanging knowledge and skills, participants can gain new perspectives and develop innovative solutions to common challenges. Such programs also help build a strong network of professionals committed to ongoing collaboration.

4. Collaborative Research Projects

Mark underscored the value of collaborative research projects that leverage combined resources to address global challenges. By bringing together Canadian and Ukrainian researchers, these projects can tackle issues such as climate change, healthcare, and technology development. Collaborative research not only enhances the quality and scope of studies but also ensures that findings are applicable and beneficial to a broader audience.

5. Cultural and Educational Initiatives

Strengthening ties through educational and cultural exchange programs was another key point in Mark’s discussion. These initiatives promote mutual understanding and respect, laying the groundwork for sustained collaboration. By investing in cultural and educational exchanges, both countries can cultivate a more informed and cohesive partnership, fostering a sense of shared purpose and commitment.

Mark Vytvytskyy’s participation in the Innovation to Rebuild Ukraine Opening Panel at the U-Nation Conference underscored the critical role of cross-border collaboration in driving innovation and rebuilding efforts. His insights on creating innovation hubs, forming joint ventures, implementing talent exchange programs, conducting collaborative research, and fostering cultural and educational initiatives highlight the multifaceted approach needed to achieve these goals.

By continuing to build and strengthen these collaborative efforts, Canada and Ukraine can not only address their respective challenges but also contribute to global progress and stability. The dialogue initiated at the U-Nation Conference represents a significant step towards a more innovative and connected future.

 

CEUTIA CanCham Meeting – May 31st, 2024

On May 31st, CUCC Vice President Yuriy Kryvosheya had the honor of participating in the inaugural hybrid meeting of CanChams of Europe held in Madrid. This groundbreaking event marked a significant milestone in fostering closer business ties between Canada and Europe.

Event Overview

The hybrid meeting, expertly organized by Mark Camilleri, saw the convergence of CanChams from 15 European countries and the European Union. Representing over 500 businesses, participants attended both in person and virtually, highlighting the event’s broad reach and inclusive approach. The primary aim was to strengthen the Canada-Europe business network, share valuable insights and best practices, and foster deeper collaboration among the attendees.

Distinguished Attendees

The event was graced by several notable figures, underscoring its importance:

– Wendy Drukier, Canadian Ambassador to Spain
– Sara Wilshaw, Chief Trade Commissioner
– Dr. Ailish Campbell, Canadian Ambassador to the EU
– Karine Asselin, Canadian Ambassador to Greece

Their presence and contributions were invaluable, offering deep insights into the evolving landscape of Canada-Europe business relations.

Key Outcomes

The meeting resulted in several significant outcomes, setting the stage for future collaboration and growth:

1. Commitment to Develop the CanChams Network: There was a unanimous agreement to further develop the CanChams of Europe network, enhancing its role as a vital conduit for Canada-Europe business relations.

2. Follow-Up Meeting: Plans were laid for a follow-up meeting in six months, aimed at refining and enhancing cooperation principles established during this initial gathering.

3. Establishment of Online Resources: An online portal and dedicated webpage were proposed to support ongoing initiatives, ensuring that members have access to the latest information and resources to drive their businesses forward.

This event signifies a pivotal moment in the strengthening of business ties between Canada and Europe. With the combined efforts of the CanChams network, trade commissioners, and ambassadors, we are poised to build a more robust and interconnected business community.

Together, we are building stronger ties between Canada and Europe, paving the way for increased collaboration, innovation, and shared prosperity.

“The Role of Diaspora Institutions in Attracting Investments for the Rebuilding of Ukraine” Forum – May 29, 2024

On May 29th, 2024, Zenon Potichny, President of the Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce (CUCC), participated in the “The Role of Diaspora Institutions in Attracting Investments for the Rebuilding of Ukraine” Forum in Kyiv. This significant event brought together leaders and stakeholders from various diaspora institutions to discuss strategies for attracting investments crucial for Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts.

Mr. Potichny shared the various initiatives undertaken by the CUCC, emphasizing the Chamber’s longstanding dedication to fostering economic ties between Canada and Ukraine. He highlighted that, “For over 30 years, the Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce (CUCC) has been a prominent voice for Canadian and Ukrainian businesses in trade and investment matters. Our commitment to enhancing economic ties has been unwavering and we continue to work hard to foster prosperity, strengthen partnerships, and build a brighter future for both Ukraine and Canada.”

The forum was organized by the Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce and Industry under the international cooperation programme “EU4Business: SME Recovery, Competitiveness and Internationalisation.” This programme, co-financed by the European Union and the German Government and implemented by the German federal company “Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH,” aims to bolster Ukraine’s economic resilience, recovery, and growth. It focuses on creating better conditions for the development of Ukrainian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), supporting innovation, and boosting exports.

The CUCC’s Role and Initiatives

During his address, Mr. Potichny outlined several key initiatives of the CUCC:

  1. Rebuild Ukraine Business Conference: This annual conference serves as a platform for Canadian and Ukrainian businesses to explore investment opportunities and collaborate on projects aimed at rebuilding Ukraine. The event features expert panels, networking sessions, and discussions on the latest economic and political developments affecting bilateral trade and investment.
  2. Rebuild Ukraine Toolkit for Canadian Businesses: The CUCC has developed a comprehensive toolkit to assist Canadian businesses interested in investing in Ukraine’s rebuilding efforts. The toolkit includes market analyses, legal and regulatory guidelines, and practical advice on navigating the Ukrainian business environment.
  3. Investment Facilitation: The CUCC has been instrumental in creating a conducive environment for Canadian investors in Ukraine. By providing essential market insights and facilitating networking opportunities, the Chamber helps Canadian businesses navigate the Ukrainian market effectively.
  4. Trade Missions and Delegations: Over the years, the CUCC has organized numerous trade missions and delegations to Ukraine. These missions have been pivotal in introducing Canadian businesses to potential Ukrainian partners and investment opportunities.
  5. Advocacy and Policy Influence: The Chamber actively engages with both the Canadian and Ukrainian governments to advocate for policies that promote bilateral trade and investment. This includes efforts to reduce trade barriers and enhance economic cooperation between the two countries.
  6. Support for SMEs: Recognizing the crucial role of SMEs in economic growth, the CUCC provides tailored support to small and medium-sized enterprises in both Canada and Ukraine. This support ranges from business advisory services to facilitating access to financing and export markets.
The Importance of Diaspora Institutions

The forum underscored the vital role that diaspora institutions play in mobilizing resources and expertise for Ukraine’s rebuilding efforts. As Mr. Potichny noted, “Diaspora communities are uniquely positioned to act as bridges between their countries of origin and residence. They bring valuable perspectives, networks, and resources that can significantly contribute to economic development and investment.”

The “EU4Business: SME Recovery, Competitiveness and Internationalisation” programme exemplifies this approach by leveraging international cooperation to support Ukrainian SMEs. The programme’s focus on innovation and export promotion aligns well with the CUCC’s objectives, creating synergies that enhance the overall impact of these efforts.

Looking Ahead

The CUCC remains committed to its mission of fostering strong economic ties between Canada and Ukraine. As Ukraine embarks on its journey of rebuilding and recovery, the Chamber will continue to play a crucial role in attracting investments and supporting sustainable economic growth. Through ongoing collaboration with international partners and diaspora institutions, the CUCC aims to contribute to a prosperous future for both countries.

Yuriy Kryvosheya’s Interview with Mind on Canadian Investments in Ukraine

🇨🇦🇺🇦 According to National Bank of Ukraine, in 2023 Canada invested $61.8 million in Ukraine’s economy through direct foreign investments. This does not include over $10 billion in military, humanitarian, and other aid.

Despite the conflict, Canadian companies are actively operating, opening new factories, and exploring investment opportunities in Ukraine. Learn more from CUCC Vice President in Ukraine Yuriy Kryvosheya about these investments, what foreign businesses expect from Ukraine’s investment climate and how business conferences attract entrepreneurs.

📈 Check out Yuriy’s full interview with Mind here

 

Investigating Business Opportunities in Ukraine for Canadian Companies Webinar – May 23rd, 2024

On May 23rd, Canada Ukraine Chamber of Commerce and BDO in Ukraine hosted webinar dedicated to “Investigating Business Opportunities in Ukraine for Canadian Companies”. Key insights included:

– Resilience and Growth: Despite the war, Ukraine shows resilience with a projected GDP growth of 3.2% in 2024.

– Infrastructure and Energy: Challenges persist in the energy sector, but international support, including from Canada, is helping rebuild and innovate.

– Economic Stability: Ukraine maintains economic stability with international aid, presenting opportunities in reconstruction and modernization.

– International Collaboration: Support from global partners, especially Canada, is crucial for Ukraine’s recovery.

– Financial Tools and Investment Support: Various financial tools and support systems are available to facilitate Canadian investment in Ukraine, including resources from Export Development Canada | Exportation et développement Canada and EBRD.

– CUFTA Modernization: The updated Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement (CUFTA) further enhances these opportunities.

We would like to thank our members and partners BDO in Ukraine for co-organizing this important event and for all their hard work in Ukraine. We would also like to express our gratitude to moderator Mark Vytvytskyy, MBA, MD 🇺🇦 🇨🇦 and speakers Andrii Borenkov, CFA, Zenon Potichny, Sherif Nagi (Embassy of Canada to Ukraine | Ambassade du Canada en Ukraine), Vira Savchenko, Vitaliy Strukov, Olga Vovk, Anna Lebedynets,Victor Nevmerzhitsky and Hon. Wayne Easter for their expertise, insightful presentations and contribution to the event, as well as Olga Korniichenko and Olha Mandyuk for organization and facilitation of this webinar.

Full webinar can be watched here:
https://lnkd.in/gRR5UnN8.

Canadian companies have the expertise to contribute significantly to Ukraine’s rebuilding and recovery, particularly in areas such as construction, advanced materials, sustainable energy solutions, and cutting-edge technology. So, let’s use this expertise to support Ukraine’s economic revival and development!

New Member – IITCON

New Member Alert!

We are thrilled to welcome IITCON as the newest member of the Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce.

IITCON headquartered in Toronto with satellite offices in Calgary, Vancouver, and Montreal, stands as a distinguished subsidiary of Belintech Ukraine. IITCON is dedicated to offer unparalleled consulting and advisory services and specializes in developing tailored solutions that fortify networks, systems, and data against evolving cyber security threats.
IITCON expertise includes information security, risk management, security network architecture, vulnerability management, and privacy.

As part of the summer promotion till the end of August 31, 2024 they are offering the following services for CUCC members:
1. 20% discount for continuous penetration testing for 1 year
2. Free basic security assessment
3. Free dark web monitoring implementation

Contact them at info@iitcon.ca and mention word “CUCC – Summer2024” to claim special promotion offer till August 31, 2024.

www.iitcon.ca

New Member – Skeuotech Agency

New Member Alert!

We are thrilled to welcome Skeuotech Agency as the newest member of Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce.

Skeuotech is a professional multilingual Webflow experts agency based in the EU and working globally. The fully remote team, specializing in design and web-development, helps elevate user experiences, drive engagement, and captivate audiences worldwide with Webflow websites.

Skeuotech is dedicated to transforming visions into digital marvels, ensuring every project is a testament to their passion for creativity and cutting-edge technology. Over the last 2 years Skeuotech Agency was also our tech partner in crafting the digital platform for Rebuild Ukraine Business Conferences (both 2022 and 2023) in Canada.

The agency working actively on 6+ markets (including Canada and USA) helping companies migrate their websites, crafting digital products from scratch and providing top-notch Webflow support and aftercare services. Today the fully remote team with Ukrainian roots, continue to grow and scale to reach their aim to help companies and marketing teams stay competitive in the dynamic tech landscape.

https://www.skeuotech.com