The role of veteran entrepreneurship in the social adaptation of veterans: an analysis of opportunities in the agricultural sector

Abstract

Problem setting. Reforms to state policy in the field of social protection for war veterans are aimed at ensuring the most effective adaptation and reintegration of veterans into civilian life, as well as providing social assistance to their family members. The purpose of this article. The aim of this article is to examine the role of veteran entrepreneurship in the adaptation and reintegration of war veterans into civilian life, using the example of starting their own businesses in the agricultural sector. Article’s main body. Upon returning from war, veterans often feel the need to reorient themselves and find what will help them in their new circumstances. The problem of military personnel’s adaptation upon return, particularly for those with disabilities, is multifaceted, as it encompasses psychological and medical support, as well as a wide range of services and benefits in the fields of education, employment, rehabilitation and business start-ups. The state recognises war veterans as a powerful and productive force for economic revival and development. The principle underpinning the state’s policy on veteran entrepreneurship can be described as veteran-centred, as it takes into account not only the interests of the state but also the needs, aspirations and skills of the veterans themselves. Their experience, discipline, ability to work under pressure and readiness to make decisions are integral to Ukraine’s economic growth. The Law of Ukraine ‘On Veteran Entrepreneurship’ establishes a number of new rules and mechanisms that were previously absent from Ukrainian legislation. It does not provide for automatic tax concessions (such as VAT reductions), but sets out a special regime of economic support for veteran entrepreneurship. The status of a veteran entrepreneur is granted for five years, and all details regarding such an entity’s receipt of a specific type of state financial support are recorded in the Unified State Register of War Veterans. A veteran entrepreneur (VE) is entitled to receive only one type of state financial support at a time. Conclusions. The state is creating incentives for veteran entrepreneurship whilst simultaneously introducing a comprehensive mechanism for their implementation: in the areas of taxation and intellectual property protection, education and professional development, employment and job placement, access to state and municipal property, and the creation of national, regional and local programmes to support veteran entrepreneurship. According to the Ukrainian Veterans Fund, in 2024 nearly 70% of war veterans wanted to start their own business specifically in the agricultural sector, and the state is directing its efforts towards helping them set up their own businesses engaged in agricultural activities, primarily the development of farming. This assistance includes financial, advisory and legal support. The Ministry of Economy, Environment and Agriculture of Ukraine has updated the ‘Own Business’ grant programme, and veterans’ entrepreneurship entities are additionally granted a 20% bonus on top of the grant amount, with a 50% bonus for those implementing projects in priority sectors of the economy, including the agricultural sector.