Ukraine’s fashion, art, and business communities aim to boost the country’s economy by using the power of consumers. Despite the ongoing conflict with Russia, creatives in Ukraine are taking action to support their industries with websites promoting Ukrainian brands. One such website is Spend With Ukraine, which offers a range of Ukrainian businesses, from digital fashion to home goods, and the Ukrainian Emergency Art Fund, which enables people to donate to artists.
The founders of Spend With Ukraine, Yaroslav Azhnyuk and Andrey Klen, believe that supporting Ukrainian-made businesses is crucial for the country’s economy. “Armies win battles, but the economy wins wars,” says Klen. “Ukraine’s product teams keep working despite being under pressure and facing displacement.”
Anna October, a fashion designer featured on Spend With Ukraine, agrees. She donates 30% of her sales to the Children’s Emergency Fund, and believes that supporting Ukrainian brands helps keep businesses afloat and contributes to a sense of normalcy in the country. Klen emphasizes the importance of sustaining interest in spending with Ukraine, saying, “We are seeing some signs of increased demand and hope it continues to grow. Getting the word out is crucial, and we welcome any help to scale this initiative.”
