Longer description of your proposed project

I am the founder of The Second Derivative (TSD), an endeavor that unites philanthropists and impact investors to boost the growth of businesses positively impacting Ukraine. Before the Big War in Ukraine, I had a successful publishing career, navigating the challenging business environment that persisted since the country gained its independence. However, my accomplishments were often overshadowed by frustrations and a sense of despair, with immigration discussions being a recurring theme. The war transformed me into a refugee and simultaneously provided a chance to initiate change, aiming to equalize the entrepreneurial landscape for Ukraine's present and future generations. My objective is to foster a comprehensive transition to a market economy, thereby making immigration to Ukraine a new consideration.

This lofty goal is my moonshot. It intends to unleash Ukraine's entrepreneurial capacity and improve the well-being of its citizens and the wider region. TSD helps overhaul Ukraine's long-term economic structure by connecting philanthropists and impact investors with Ukrainian social entrepreneurs running profitable and scalable businesses. We recently received a $50,000 grant from Tyler Cowen and Emergent Ventures to trial two exceptional companies. The funds from ACX will be used to enhance our program and business pipeline by granting four loans repayable with impact to Ukrainian social enterprises. This grant will also enable us to expand our educational and community-building efforts for our investees.

Describe why you think you're qualified to work on this

I ran my own social business for 14 years, a well-known specialized book publisher called Osnovy Publishing in Kyiv. Now, I'm studying for an EMBA at Said Business School, Oxford, concentrating on impact investing. I also guide and mentor companies and non-profits to increase their social impact. Having a wide network in Ukraine and globally, I have a special insight into businesses often missed by investors in Ukraine.

Other ways I can learn about you

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-pavlychko-b44a0673/

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dana-pavlychko-on-ukraines-economic-recovery-and/id1333090403?i=1000597772322

https://www.imd.org/news/strategy/updates-running-a-business-like-a-war-time-general/

https://www.aspeninstitutece.org/people-profile/dana-pavlychko/

How much money do you need?

50K

Links to any supporting documents or information

No response.

Estimate your probability of succeeding if you get the amount of money you asked for

I am completely confident in the success of this venture. The project has received a great deal of positive feedback, and its uniqueness in Ukraine has attracted interest from family offices, philanthropic organizations, and private individuals.