Summary of the Veterans and IDPs Reintegration Project

One of the priority areas of activity for the NGO "Time of Action" in 2024 was the reintegration of veterans and internally displaced persons (IDPs) into the life of local communities. The issue of their integration after the war remains highly relevant, as the successful adaptation of these categories of people directly affects social cohesion, economic stability, and security in the country.

The project, implemented with the support of international donors, involved a comprehensive approach: from informational campaigns and advocacy to conducting educational events aimed at supporting veterans and IDPs, as well as fostering sustainable connections between them, local communities, and authorities.

This became the first project in Ukraine in 11 years that was able to unite veterans and displaced persons into a single initiative. Therefore, the main focus was on creating effective mechanisms for social adaptation, psychological support, and providing economic opportunities for those returning from war or forced to leave their homes.

We paid particular attention to the development of veteran-owned businesses as a key tool for the socio-economic adaptation of military personnel returning to civilian life. Considering the numerous challenges faced by veterans during reintegration, we developed a comprehensive training and financial support program that significantly contributed to the creation of sustainable business models and the expansion of economic opportunities for participants.

The program included a series of training sessions, hackathons, workshops, and mentoring sessions, in which veterans from all regions of Ukraine participated. In just the first month of registration, over 600 veterans and IDPs joined the project. The focus was on entrepreneurial skills, business planning, marketing strategies, financial literacy, and effective use of grant opportunities. Experts in business, investment, and advocacy helped participants develop realistic business strategies adapted to current economic conditions.

One of the significant outcomes of this initiative was the awarding of 10 grants to support veteran businesses, which allowed their founders to start or scale up their projects. Financial support was provided on a competitive basis, taking into account the innovation of ideas, their potential to create jobs, and contribute to the development of local communities. Additionally, in collaboration with our partners, we focused on promoting veteran entrepreneurship through a media campaign that highlighted success stories and helped challenge stereotypes about veterans' opportunities in the business world. This not only increased public awareness but also contributed to attracting new partners and investors to support veteran initiatives.

This work has been an important step toward creating a favorable environment for veterans in business and ensuring their long-term economic stability. In 2025, the NGO "CHAS DIJI" plans to expand its reintegration and adaptation programs for veterans and IDPs, strengthen mentoring support, and assist in the realization of business ideas from our Defenders.