Bake4Ukraine: Building a Bakery Training Center for Future of Ukraine

The project aims to enhance food security for urban and rural communities in Ukraine by supporting the sustainable development of the mini-bakery sector. By strengthening local food production, the initiative provides a long-term alternative to reliance on humanitarian aid, fostering economic resilience and job creation.A key component is the establishment of a Bakery Training Center, which will offer blended vocational training—both online and offline—to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). The center will train bakery staff in resource-efficient and resilient baking technologies, with a focus on modern, small-scale production methods. At least 250 participants, including a minimum of 60% from vulnerable groups, will benefit from the training in the center's first year.In addition, the project will produce a comprehensive guide for aspiring entrepreneurs on how to establish and manage a mini-bakery. To further stimulate the sector, up to 15 mini-bakeries will receive grants for establishment or upgrading, and up to 10 performance-based co-financing grants will be awarded through a competitive selection process.The main beneficiaries are existing and new mini-bakeries in Ukraine, especially those seeking to improve local food supply chains, create jobs, and process locally grown agricultural products.The initiative is a collaboration between five partners: SC Zeelandia, Perspectiva 21.3, and Bakery 21.3 (all Ukraine-based) and Kom over en help (lead applicant) and Zeelandia H.J. Doeleman b.v. (The Netherlands),