Category: News

The 3rd Annual Rebuild Ukraine Business Conference, hosted by the Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce on December 3, 2024, at Toronto’s Omni King Edward Hotel, was an impactful gathering that united global leaders, industry experts, and innovators to discuss and strategize Ukraine’s reconstruction and modernization. This year’s conference carried forward its mission of fostering international collaboration with a focus on building a resilient and prosperous Ukraine.

Distinguished Keynote Speakers

The event featured an exceptional lineup of keynote speakers:

• Ambassador Yulia Kovaliv emphasized the importance of international alliances in Ukraine’s recovery.
• David L. Cohen, the U.S. Ambassador to Canada, highlighted the role of cross-border cooperation.
• Lenna Koszarny, CEO of Horizon Capital, shared insights on investment opportunities and economic resilience.
• Richard Verma, Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources, discussed the global perspective on rebuilding efforts.
• General Roméo Dallaire, renowned for his humanitarian work, provided a moving address on leadership in crisis.

Panels That Shaped the Narrative

The conference hosted pivotal panel discussions, including:

• “Strength in Unity: Resilient Ukrainian Enterprises Driving Economic Stability”, which showcased the resilience of Ukrainian businesses.
• “Bridging Borders: U.S. and Canadian Businesses Shaping Ukraine’s Future”, which explored opportunities for North American enterprises in Ukraine.
• “Shared Visions: Charting Ukraine’s Recovery Path Together”, moderated by Natalie Jaresko, brought together government and corporate leaders to envision collaborative strategies.

Beyond Discussions

The event was a hub for networking, with opportunities designed to connect stakeholders from diverse sectors. Attendees engaged in dynamic exchanges during coffee breaks, a networking luncheon, and a closing reception. The conference also spotlighted sponsors such as Fairfax, Meest, and Horizon Capital, whose commitment underscores the potential for public-private collaboration.

A Vision for the Future

This year’s theme of resilience and innovation resonated throughout the event, reflecting the collective determination to rebuild Ukraine as a beacon of progress and stability. From technological advancements to sustainable development, the discussions offered a roadmap for addressing challenges and seizing opportunities in Ukraine’s reconstruction.

We would like to thank our incredible partners Business Council of Canada, Export Development Canada | Exportation et développement Canada, Embassy of Ukraine in Canada, Embassy of Canada to Ukraine | Ambassade du Canada en Ukraine, American Chamber of Commerce in Canada (AmCham Canada), Ministry of Economy of Ukraine and CEO Club Ukraine for their collaboration and leadership. Your partnership has been instrumental in creating a platform for impactful discussions and actionable outcomes.

We would also like to express our gratitute to our general sponsors Export Development Canada | Exportation et développement Canada, Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited, Horizon Capital, CIBC, BlackBerry, AV-CANADA, Meest Canada, General Dynamics Land Systems, Miratech, American Chamber of Commerce in Canada (AmCham Canada), Ukrainian World Congress – Свiтовий Конґрес Українців, Canada-Ukraine Foundation, ELEKS, BCU Financial Group, TIU Canada, TriggerTech, Ukrainian Credit Union Limited, EBS Global, Aecon Group Inc., Van Horne Construction Limited_CA
Without their support this event would not be possible.

For more information about the event and future initiatives, visit Rebuild Ukraine Business Conference Platform. 

   

Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce (CUCC), in collaboration with Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), Global Affairs Canada and Export Development Canada organized the highly successful Canada Pavilion at the 4th international Rebuild Ukraine Exhibition and Conference, held in Warsaw, Poland on November 13th and 14th, 2024. This major global event took place over two days and brought together leading stakeholders from across Ukraine, Europe, North America, and beyond to discuss, strategize, and forge partnerships to support Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction.

With leadership from President Zenon Potichny, Vice President Yuriy Kryvosheya, Vice President Markiyan Markevych, and Executive Director Olha Mandyuk, CUCC once again demonstrated its pivotal role in connecting Canadian businesses with the global community in Ukraine’s ongoing recovery efforts.

A Global Event of Significant Impact

The Rebuild Ukraine Conference hosted over 5,000 participants, representing governments, international organizations, financial institutions, non-profits, and private-sector companies. Delegates attended from countries across Europe, North America, and Asia, underscoring the international commitment to Ukraine’s reconstruction.

The conference featured 20 thematic panels and workshops that addressed critical areas such as:

• Infrastructure rebuilding
• Energy resilience and sustainability
• Digital transformation and innovation
• Education and workforce development
• Financing and investments in Ukraine

Speakers included global thought leaders, government officials, industry experts, and investors, who provided insight into the challenges and opportunities in rebuilding Ukraine.

The Canada Pavilion: A Hub of Collaboration

CUCC, in partnership with NRCan, Global Affairs Canada and Export Development Canada curated Canada Pavilion, a central feature of the conference. This vibrant space showcased the breadth of Canadian expertise and innovation in critical sectors such as infrastructure, clean energy, technology, education, and insurance. The Pavilion served as a hub for engagement, fostering direct connections between Canadian companies and potential partners from Ukraine, Europe, and the United States.

Over 60 B2B meetings were facilitated at the Pavilion, creating tangible opportunities for collaboration and paving the way for impactful partnerships.

Canadian Leadership and Expertise

The presence of Canadian leadership at the conference underscored the country’s commitment to Ukraine’s recovery. Ontario’s Minister of Energy, Stephen Lecce, participated as a distinguished speaker on the Energy Panel, where he discussed Canada’s advanced energy solutions, including innovations in renewable energy, grid modernization, and sustainable practices. His participation highlighted Canada’s leadership in driving energy resilience and security, a critical priority for Ukraine’s rebuilding efforts.

Showcasing Canadian Companies

The Canada Pavilion brought together a dynamic group of Candian organizations offering cutting-edge solutions tailored to the challenges of Ukraine’s recovery an

d reconstruction. Participating companies included:

• TIU Canada
• Consultec Ltd.
• Total Containment Inc.
• GeoMate
• Systèmes Polycrete
• Teknobuilt
• UNIVERSALNA Insurance Company
• TISEC Inc.
• FuelPositive
• Saskatchewan Polytechnic
• Victor Energy 
• Duraflex
• Varcon Inc.
• Northern Towers Industries Inc.
• CMSI
• Nucleom

These organizations represented the diversity and strength of Canadian expertise, demonstrating the country’s ability to contribute meaningfully to Ukraine’s recovery.

Building a Shared Future

The Rebuild Ukraine Conference and the Canada Pavilion highlighted the power of international cooperation in addressing global challenges. With CUCC’s leadership, Canadian businesses are not only contributing to Ukraine’s recovery but are also building enduring partnerships that benefit both nations. CUCC remains committed to fostering collaboration, innovation, and investment to ensure a resilient and prosperous future for Ukraine and Canada.

Together, we are building a stronger future for Ukraine and Canada.

On October 7, 2024, Kyiv hosted the International Hospitality Conference by Hoteliero, an event that brought together hotel owners, executives, and industry leaders to discuss emerging trends in the hospitality sector. This year’s conference placed a significant emphasis on inclusivity and innovation, exploring how the industry can evolve to meet the needs of a diverse clientele.

One of the key moments of the conference was a panel discussion on “Barrier-Free Hospitality,” featuring Yuriy Kryvosheya, Vice President of the Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce in Ukraine. In his remarks, Yuriy highlighted the importance of inclusivity, noting that it extends beyond just the development of accessible physical spaces. He urged attendees to adopt a broader understanding of inclusivity, one that embraces the social and economic reintegration of Ukraine’s military veterans and defenders.

“The matter & notion of inclusivity is extremely important,”Yuriy stated. “It continues to transform and evolve, covering much more than just suitable physical infrastructure, which, of course, should be developed according to the latest standards. Among the crucial aspects, we must consider the reintegration of veterans and defenders back into business activities, especially given the significant number of entrepreneurs currently on the front lines.”

Yuriy also emphasized the importance of starting this process now, without waiting for the end of the war. “We can and should be creative in finding ways to enhance synergies with our military and help our defenders. From our side, we have the honor of already being engaged with Soborna Ukraine and DoLadu Mental Health Lab, and we will continue to do more.”

The Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce remains committed to fostering connections between Ukraine and Canada, with a focus on building a more inclusive and supportive business environment. Yuriy’s participation in the panel underscored the Chamber’s dedication to promoting inclusivity in the hospitality sector and beyond.

The Chamber encourages all stakeholders to actively participate in initiatives that promote inclusivity and support Ukraine’s veterans, defenders, and broader community. Together, these efforts can make a significant difference in shaping a more equitable and resilient future for Ukraine.

Asters in partnership with the Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce (CUCC) and supported by N-iX, held an unforgettable evening celebrating the opening of the exhibition
“A SCREAM OF SILENCE” by renowned Ukrainian artist Vira Barynova-Kuleba. The event took place on September 25, 2024 in Kyiv, with the participation of the Artist, representatives
from the Embassy of Canada to Ukraine, CUCC members and friends.

Vira Barynova-Kuleba is one of the most expressive Ukrainian artists. She holds the titles of People’s Artist of Ukraine, Honoured Art Worker of Ukraine and an
acting Member of the National Academy of Arts of Ukraine. She is a Member of the National Union of Artists of Ukraine and a Professor at the National Academy of Fine Arts and Architecture. Vira is a Cavalier of the Order of Princess Olha, 3rd Degree. Her works have been exhibited in Ukraine, Switzerland, China, the United States, Hungary, Germany, Great Britain, and France. Many of her paintings are held in collections of Ukrainian and foreign museums, as well as by private collectors worldwide, and have been auctioned at Sotheby’s and Christie’s.

ArtAsters is Asters’ non-profit project aimed at the popularization of Ukrainian art. Launched in 2009, the project is designed to benefit Ukrainian artists and create additional opportunities to display their works in a gallery-like office space for Asters’ lawyers, clients, and guests to view.

We sincerely thank everyone who participated in this event and look forward to future
gatherings.

 

 

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.

 

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.

 

 

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.

 

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.