On December 2nd, the Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce (CUCC) proudly hosted the 4th Annual Rebuild Ukraine Business Conference at Toronto’s Omni King Edward Hotel. The event brought together an exceptional community of leaders, policymakers, investors, and international partners united in their commitment to supporting Ukraine’s long-term recovery, reconstruction, and modernization. With more than 300 participants from Canada, Ukraine, Europe, and beyond, this year’s gathering stood as a powerful demonstration of global solidarity and determination.
The conference featured a series of impactful keynote addresses. Chrystia Freeland, Canada’s Special Representative for Recovery and Reconstruction of Ukraine, underscored Canada’s unwavering commitment and emphasized the importance of sustained international cooperation. Yuliya Svyrydenko, Prime Minister of Ukraine, delivered a compelling address outlining Ukraine’s reform agenda, economic priorities, and the national vision for reconstruction rooted in resilience, innovation, and partnership. Kyrylo Budanov, Chief of the Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine, provided essential insight into Ukraine’s security landscape and the critical relationship between stability and reconstruction.
This year’s program also featured significant presentations from Ukrainian institutions leading the country’s economic transformation. Maryna Khlystun, CEO of UkraineInvest, offered a detailed overview of investment opportunities and the supportive mechanisms available to businesses seeking to engage in Ukraine’s renewal. Oleksandr Tsyvinskyi, Director of the Economic Security Bureau of Ukraine, spoke to the strengthening of economic security frameworks designed to protect investors and ensure transparent, accountable reconstruction.
Throughout the day, attendees heard from distinguished leaders whose perspectives enriched each discussion. Goldy Hyder, President and CEO of the Business Council of Canada, reflected on the expanding role of Canadian business in Ukraine’s future. Ambassador Natalka Cmoc, Canada’s Ambassador to Ukraine, and Ambassador Andrii Plakhotniuk, Ukraine’s Ambassador to Canada, highlighted the strength of bilateral cooperation and the shared vision guiding both nations. Yasir Naqvi, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of International Trade and to the Secretary of State, emphasized Canada’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s economic integration and market access. EU Ambassador to Canada Geneviève Tuts offered an essential European perspective, reinforcing the EU and UK commitment to Ukraine’s reconstruction and long-term development.
The impact of this conference was made possible through the leadership and support of Ministry of Environment and Agriculture of Ukraine, the Embassy of Ukraine in Canada,the Embassy of Canada to Ukraine, Business Council of Canada, Export Development Canada, CEUTIA, EUCCAN and CEO Club Ukraine. Their collaboration ensured a dynamic, far-reaching dialogue grounded in shared responsibility and international partnership.
CUCC extends deep gratitude to the sponsors whose continued support enables this flagship conference to thrive. Their commitment allows CUCC to convene leaders, foster meaningful exchanges, and advance the work essential to Ukraine’s economic recovery.
Guiding the day’s discussions was Steve Paikin, whose trademark clarity, warmth, and insight helped transform a complex and fast-paced program into an engaging and thoughtful experience. His presence brought cohesion and accessibility to the conversations unfolding throughout the event.
As Ukraine continues on its path toward reconstruction and renewal, the Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce remains dedicated to creating platforms that bring together global partners, strengthen networks, and advance the strategic work required for sustainable recovery.
All conference panels, keynote speeches, and presentations are available for viewing on the CUCC YouTube Channel, and the full program can be accessed through the conference platform here: Rebuild Ukraine Business Conference 2025
