The war in Ukraine has reshaped the investment landscape but has not brought it to a halt. On the contrary, the crisis has become a catalyst for the transformation of entire sectors. Some industries have received a powerful boost, while both foreign and local investors are discovering new opportunities in these niches.
Below are 10 sectors that continue to attract investment even during the war.
1. Agribusiness and Food Security
Ukraine remains an agricultural superpower despite logistics challenges and land contamination.
-
Investors are entering niche crop production: berries, nuts, organic products.
-
The grain sector retains strategic importance, especially thanks to the EU “Solidarity Lanes.”
-
Local processing is stimulating demand: flour, oil, semi-finished products.
-
M&A trend: consolidation of mid-sized agribusinesses into large holdings.
-
Synergy: access to global markets and partnerships with international traders.
Trend: food security is a global driver — and Ukraine is at the center of attention.
2. Logistics and Warehousing
Destroyed ports and the blockade of the Black Sea redirected cargo flows to western regions.
-
Construction of new terminals and warehouses near borders with Poland, Slovakia, and Romania (Lviv, Zakarpattia, Volyn regions), as well as near Kyiv.
-
Demand for cold storage for agricultural products and pharmaceuticals exceeds supply.
-
Private investments in rail and river terminals.
-
Logistics startups (freight marketplaces, digital freight) are receiving early funding.
Trend: warehouses are “gold” — stable rental income with relatively low risk.
3. Food Processing Industry
-
Domestic consumption continues, while export-oriented producers seek new sales channels.
-
Snack production, dairy, and meat processing are growing due to stable demand.
-
Local brands offer fast payback and strong consumer trust.
-
Export focus on niche organic products and baby food.
-
Even small companies are becoming M&A targets.
-
Partnerships with retail chains in Ukraine and the EU.
Trend: “from farm to shelf” — vertically integrated models.
4. IT and Startups
Ukrainian developers continue to attract international funds.
-
Military tech: drones, demining systems, reconnaissance, cybersecurity.
-
AI and SaaS with global markets.
-
FinTech: digital payment and lending platforms.
Trend: even in 2024–2025, Ukrainian startups are raising rounds of $1–5 million.
5. Renewable Energy
Infrastructure destruction has increased demand for autonomous solutions.
-
Solar power plants for businesses with payback of 3–5 years.
-
Bioenergy from agricultural waste.
-
Wind projects in western Ukraine gaining traction.
-
Rooftop solar solutions for businesses.
-
Small modular CHP plants in regions.
Trend: energy independence as a survival factor.
6. Residential and Commercial Real Estate
Despite the war, the market continues to function.
-
Western cities see demand exceeding supply due to relocated families and businesses.
-
Offices are transforming: demand for coworking and flexible spaces.
-
Investments in renovation of buildings into apartment hotels.
Trend: real estate as a “safe haven,” especially in Lviv and Kyiv.
7. Retail and E-commerce
-
Demand for basic goods remains stable.
-
Food and FMCG retailers continue to scale.
-
Online commerce is growing — from marketplaces to niche online stores.
-
Last-mile logistics is becoming an investment focus.
Trend: a digital retail revolution.
8. Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals
-
Demand is growing due to war injuries, displaced populations, and demographic pressure.
-
Investments in private clinics, dentistry, and rehabilitation centers.
-
Localization of drug and medical equipment production.
-
Telemedicine attracts grants and venture funding.
Trend: “healthcare as a business” with long-term demand.
9. Daily-Need Services
Even in crisis, people seek comfort.
-
Self-service car washes
-
Coffee shops and fast-food restaurants
-
Beauty salons, cosmetology, fitness centers
Trend: fast payback and stable cash flow.
10. Education and EdTech
Millions of Ukrainians need new skills — from schoolchildren to adults changing careers.
-
Online platforms for IT and digital skills
-
English courses, business education, soft skills
-
Investments in schools, kindergartens, and education hubs for displaced people in safe regions
-
Partnerships with EU EdTech platforms
Trend: investing in human capital — Ukraine’s most valuable resource.
11. Military Tech and Defense Industry
One of the most dynamic niches.
-
Drones, sensors, robotics
-
Joint ventures with international defense companies
-
Partnerships with government programs (BRAVE1, USAID)
Trend: high-risk but extremely high-return investments.
Conclusion
Investors have already proven it: even during the war, Ukraine remains a country of opportunities. Sectors linked to basic needs (food, energy, healthcare, housing) and future-oriented industries (IT, startups, EdTech) continue to attract capital.
Post-war reconstruction will become Europe’s largest investment project.
The only question is: at what entry point are you ready to become part of this story?
