On 4 June representatives of the U.S.-Ukraine Business Council (USUBC) and its member companies took part in a panel discussion organized by American Councils for International Education as part of the fifth round of the Ukrainian Business Leaders: Promoting Innovation and Entrepreneurship (UBL PIE) program. The session connected a dynamic cohort of 15 Ukrainian entrepreneurs and U.S. business leaders for a candid exchange on advancing U.S.-Ukraine economic cooperation.
The discussion featured Nadiia Khomaziuk, Executive Director of USUBC, as moderator, alongside panelists Sam Lerman, Spyrt Worldwide; Irina Mitchell, Private Capital Development LLC, and Davis Richardson, Paradox Public Relations. Panelists shared practical guidance on business development, building long-term partnerships, investment readiness, and navigating the U.S. market. Sam Lerman spoke about his experience introducing Ukrainian wines and spirits to the U.S., emphasizing branding, storytelling, and regulatory pathways. Irina Mitchell offered insights on investor expectations, relationship-building, and access to capital. Davis Richardson addressed the importance of strategic communications, brand positioning, and understanding market perception in the U.S. business environment.
Participants represented a wide range of sectors, including energy, manufacturing, fintech, education, logistics, health tech, IT, and creative industries, underscoring the diversity and dynamism of Ukraine’s business ecosystem.
The Q&A session was especially engaging. In a vivid and forward-looking discussion, Ukrainian fellows raised thoughtful questions on topics ranging from the international expansion of Ukrainian wines and sunflower oil industries to critical minerals and AI innovation. They explored partnership strategies, export potential, marketing approaches, regulatory environments, and pathways for bringing Ukrainian innovation to global markets. Speakers emphasized the importance of building credibility, understanding the U.S. landscape, and developing long-term international strategies.
As Nadiia Khomaziuk noted in her closing remarks: “You are the ambassadors — carriers of Ukraine’s ingenuity and resilience. Your success is Ukraine’s success.”
USUBC is proud to support Ukraine’s dynamic community of established and emerging entrepreneurs and looks forward to continued collaboration with American Councils and the UBL PIE program.
