Grant for generators and charging stations for sole proprietors

The current situation for Ukrainian retail is defined by a critical combination of factors: massive attacks on energy infrastructure, systematic power outages, and abnormal cold (below -10°C). In such conditions, business continuity becomes a major challenge even for market leaders.

As of mid-January 2026, large chains such as ATB, "Silpo", and Novus officially announced the need to temporarily suspend operations at some locations. This is due to the technical regulations for servicing energy equipment that operates at the limit of its capabilities. For small businesses, having their own autonomous power supply is the only way to preserve inventory and prevent the complete shutdown of operations.

Even giants take a break — why this matters for small businesses

The experience of large supermarkets in January 2026 shows that generator equipment requires regular servicing, especially under peak loads and low temperatures. Companies are forced to make technological breaks to prevent equipment breakdowns.

"Under high load, generators require maintenance, so some locations may temporarily be out of service."

For Sole Proprietorships (Sole Proprietorship), which lack the technical and financial base of large networks, state support becomes a critical factor for survival. If market giants need to stop for service, for a small business, the absence of energy equipment means complete uncompetitiveness during blackouts.

Who is eligible for the generator grant

On January 23, 2026, First Deputy Prime Minister — Minister of Economy, Yuliya Svyrydenko, announced the launch of a package of additional support for small businesses. According to the Ministry of Digital Transformation, this assistance is targeted and aimed at ensuring autonomous power supply for points that provide essential services to the population.

The grant is available to entrepreneurs who meet the following criteria:

• Organizational form: Sole Proprietorship 2nd and 3rd groups of single tax.

• Fields of activity: retail trade in food and essential goods, pharmacies, service centers, workshops, and other service establishments.

• Purpose: exclusively the purchase of generators and charging stations.

Grant math — how much money the state gives

The amount of non-refundable assistance is fixed depending on the number of employees. The government's priority is to support entrepreneurs who provide more jobs.

Alternative to the grant — targeted loans at 0%

For businesses whose energy independence needs exceed the grant limits, the government introduced a mechanism for repayable funds through preferential lending. This decision was also approved by the Cabinet of Ministers on January 23, 2026.

Key parameters of the program:

• Base program: "Available loans 5–7–9%".

• Interest rate: 0% per annum (the difference between the market rate and zero is compensated by the Entrepreneurship Development Fund).

• Maximum amount: up to 10 million UAH.

• Term: up to 3 years.

• Conditions: available to businesses that meet the standard criteria of the "5-7-9%" program.

• Bank network: nearly 50 partner banks are involved.

How to apply and where to find help

The program is implemented under the initiative "Own Business". The application submission process is maximally simplified:

1. Document submission is done through the "Diia" portal.

2. The application undergoes verification for compliance with the business code and tax group.

3. Funds are directed for the purchase of specified equipment (generators, batteries, charging stations).

The government offers two clear tools for entrepreneurs: direct non-refundable assistance for small retail points and zero-interest loans for larger needs. This allows choosing the optimal financial safeguard depending on the volume of operational activity.