Veterans are the pillar of Ukraine, and banks are partners for their reintegration

Ukrgasbank (UGB) became a partner to the Veterans’ Reintegration Conference, a significant event that convened over 250 stakeholders, including government officials, business leaders, financial sector representatives, international partners, and members of the veteran community.

The primary objective of the conference was to collaboratively identify and develop effective strategies for integrating veterans back into the country's economic and social life.

Rodion Morozov, Acting Chairperson of the Management Board of Ukrgasbank, contributed to a key panel discussion "Building a Support Ecosystem – Best Practices of Financial Institutions in Serving Veterans as Clients." During the discussion, Mr. Morozov detailed Ukrgasbank's multifaceted approach to veteran support, which encompasses financial, psychological, and professional assistance.

"Every veteran brings a unique set of experiences," stated Mr. Morozov. "It is imperative that we recognize the individual behind the uniform, acknowledging their dignity, needs, and potential. At UGB, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive support that includes specialized financial products and services, fostering an inclusive environment, offering psychological assistance, and facilitating employment and charitable initiatives."

A prime example of Ukrgasbank's dedication to veteran support is its successful collaboration with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). "In April 2024, Ukrgasbank was selected as one of two pilot banks to pioneer the 'Reintegration of Veterans and War-Affected Persons' initiative in Ukraine. We are proud to announce that in August 2024, we became the first bank in Ukraine to disburse a loan under this project," Mr. Morozov elaborated.

Ukrgasbank's veteran support system is built upon several key pillars:

• The "Veteran Support" Program consolidating all of the bank's products and programs designed to assist veterans.
• Dedicated Veteran Office with both combat and managerial experience serves as a liaison, engaging with military personnel and veterans on an "equal-to-equal" basis.
• Specialized Financial Products including the implementation of the "Reintegration of Veterans and War-Affected Persons" initiative in partnership with the EBRD.
• Mental Health Support available for veterans, employees, and their families to address psychological well-being.
• Employment for veterans and support for demobilized colleagues. 

Illustrating the impact of these initiatives, VIP-TOYS, a manufacturer of children's eco-plastic toys and household goods, received funding through the EBRD collaboration. Roksolana Vakylenko, Director of VIP-TOYS, commented, "The financing program with EBRD empowered us to innovate. We invested in equipment to produce eco-plastic from wheat straw, which we now incorporate into our toy manufacturing. Subsequently, we invested in a solar power plant to achieve energy independence for our facility. Beyond the financial backing, the comprehensive consulting and unwavering support from Ukrgasbank were instrumental. We also benefited from an investment incentive of 20% of the project's cost."

Ukrgasbank firmly believes that supporting veterans is a vital investment in the future prosperity and stability of Ukraine.

07.05.2025