Representing NatAlli, Irish partner Momentum was delighted to join the official launch of the Ukrainian Irish Chamber of Commerce, which took place on Tuesday, 3 March 2026, at Europe House in Dublin.
The event brought together leaders, entrepreneurs, policymakers and innovators from across Ireland and Ukraine to celebrate an important milestone in strengthening economic and social ties between the two countries. The launch created a valuable opportunity to connect with senior executives, founders, institutional representatives and members of the wider innovation and enterprise ecosystem who are actively shaping long-term Ireland–Ukraine cooperation.
Momentum has been playing an increasing role in building resilience and recovery across communities in Ukraine and beyond. This includes Paths to Peace, a tourism initiative focused on young people as peacemakers; RISE Resilient Communities, a programme focused on community rebuilding and long-term social recovery; and VINTA, which champions women’s leadership in the alcohol sector. These programmes reflect Momentum’s deep commitment to ensuring Ukraine recovers sustainably and to the people at the heart of that recovery: the women rebuilding their livelihoods, the communities finding their footing again, and the leaders emerging from the hardship of war to shape a more hopeful future.
Attended by Momentum’s Samanta Carty, the launch opened with welcoming remarks from Head of Office, European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland, who set the stage for an engaging and forward-looking discussion. Speakers included: H.E. Larysa Gerasko, Ambassador of Ukraine to Ireland, Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Senator Aubrey McCarthy, Anna Krys, Chair of the Ukrainian Irish Chamber of Commerce and Professor Edgar Morgenroth, Dublin City University Business School.
Together, they outlined a shared vision for strengthening trade, investment and collaboration between Ireland and Ukraine. One of the highlights of the event was learning more about the evolving trade relationship between the two countries. The exchange of goods reflects the complementary strengths of both economies. Maize is one of the main imports to Ireland from Ukraine, supporting Ireland’s agri-food sector, while Irish mackerel is among the key exports from Ireland to Ukraine, reflecting the strength of Ireland’s seafood industry.
This highlights the practical and mutually beneficial links already in place and points to further opportunities for collaboration in areas such as agriculture, innovation, energy and entrepreneurship. Alongside economic cooperation, discussions also emphasised the importance of supporting Ukraine’s resilience and long-term recovery.
During the networking session, Momentum’s EU Project Specialist Samantha Carty shared insights into the NatAlli programme with attendees. Its mission is to empower Ukrainian women to become entrepreneurs and community leaders. Through a structured mentoring programme and an expanding community platform, NatAlli is helping to build a supportive ecosystem for women contributing to both economic regeneration and social recovery. Today, the programme’s growing community includes more than 140 members, creating opportunities for mentorship and skills development, cross-border collaboration, entrepreneurial growth and community-led regeneration initiatives across Europe. By supporting women to develop businesses and networks, NatAlli is helping strengthen both local economies and social resilience.
The launch of the Ukrainian Irish Chamber of Commerce signals a shared commitment to long-term partnership, economic cooperation and solidarity between Ireland and Ukraine. We look forward to seeing how these connections continue to grow, supporting innovation, entrepreneurship and recovery while strengthening ties between Ireland and Ukraine.
Momentum would like to sincerely thank the hosts and organisers, particularly Anna Krys, Chair of the Board, and Pavlo Bogachenko, Secretary of the Chamber, for bringing together such an inspiring community to celebrate this important moment.
To join the free NatAlli community as a mentor or mentee, please visit: Platform – Natalli Project