Italy has joined the SME Resilience Alliance.

Italy has officially become a member of the SME Resilience Alliance, which will assist Ukrainian entrepreneurs.

At the event 'On the Path to URC 2025' in Milan, Italy joined the Alliance, which already supports 36 countries. Italy's participation will promote the development of Ukrainian business and open new opportunities for both countries.

'Small and medium-sized enterprises contribute significantly to the stability of the Ukrainian economy. I thank Italy for its decision to join the SME Resilience Alliance. Our goal is to work with Alliance partners to provide businesses with more opportunities for training, consulting, grants, and access to new markets. We are already working with partners on the mechanics of how businesses can benefit from the initiative. I am confident that this cooperation will open new opportunities for our countries,' said Yulia Svyrydenko, First Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine, Minister of Economy.

The role of small and medium-sized enterprises in economic recovery was discussed during the working session 'The Potential Role of SMEs in the Recovery Process.'

'Small and medium-sized businesses are the main employers in Ukraine, creating over 80% of jobs. It is important to support their efforts by providing financial and technical assistance and expanding export opportunities. The Alliance participants are implementing many programs and projects to support entrepreneurship and develop human capital. Thank you to each of our partners for their contribution to Ukraine's resilience and recovery,' said Tetyana Berezhna, Deputy Minister of Economy.

The SME Resilience Alliance was established at URC 2024 in Berlin to support the development of small and medium-sized businesses. It is already supported by 36 countries that provide investments, consultations, and development programs.

More than 550 companies from Italy, Ukraine, and other countries are participating in the event 'On the Way to URC2025.' This event is an important preparation for the fourth International Conference on Ukraine's Recovery URC-2025 in Rome.