The Ukrainian Business Meetup – Toronto Branch is designed as a high-impact, practical experience for anyone interested in starting, building, or growing a business in Canada.

This is not a theoretical discussion — the event brings together experts and real business leaders to provide clear guidance, honest insights, and actionable steps.

“Build Your Business in Canada: Set Up and Financing”

🕕 6:45 PM – 7:30 PM

The panel brings together leading professionals across legal, financial, banking, and business sectors, offering a complete view of how business works in Canada — from structure to growth.

🔹 Panel Experts:

⚖️ Anna Kuprieieva
Principal Lawyer, Solvis Law
Expert in business and corporate law, supporting entrepreneurs with structuring, compliance, and legal strategy.

📊 Lidiya Tvorysh
Corporate Accountant
Specialist in financial management and business operations, helping businesses build strong financial foundations and sustainable growth.

💼 Smita Chakrabarti
VP Commercial Credit, BCU Financial
Senior leader in commercial lending, providing insight into how financing decisions are made and what makes businesses “bankable.”

🚀 Katherine Vellinga
Co-founder & CEO, Zirkova Vodka
International entrepreneur and business leader with experience building and scaling ventures across markets, bringing real-world perspective on growth and execution.

The discussion is structured to provide a complete understanding of the business journey in Canada, including:

• How to properly start and structure a business

• Financial foundations and common mistakes

• Access to financing and how decisions are made

• Real-world challenges and growth strategies

• Practical steps to move forward

Mark Vytvytskyy, MD, MBA
Vice President, Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce (CUCC)
Founder, MIB Health

An experienced business and technology leader, Mark will guide the discussion to ensure a focused, dynamic, and practical conversation, bringing together diverse expert perspectives into a clear and valuable experience.

🕢 7:30 PM – 7:45 PM

Following the panel, attendees will hear two real business journeys from entrepreneurs operating in Canada:

• HOYRA Restaurant – a modern Ukrainian gastrobar in Toronto, showcasing how culture, concept, and customer experience can be transformed into a strong and recognizable brand.

• Symphony Kitchens – a business built on craftsmanship and quality, demonstrating how expertise, consistency, and client trust can drive sustainable growth in a competitive market.

Each story will highlight:
✔ real challenges faced in Canada
✔ key decisions and turning points
✔ lessons learned through experience
✔ practical advice for others

Mykhaylo Pavlov
Ukrainian Associate Producer, CHIN Radio Ottawa 97.9 FM

Bringing energy and professionalism, Mykhaylo will ensure a smooth, engaging, and well-paced experience throughout the evening.

🕢 From 7:55 PM

The event concludes with a curated networking session, providing an opportunity to:

• Connect with entrepreneurs and professionals

• Build meaningful relationships

• Explore collaboration opportunities

• Engage directly with speakers and partners

This event is valuable for:

✔ Entrepreneurs and business owners
✔ Professionals looking to grow or transition
✔ Individuals exploring business opportunities
✔ Anyone interested in building success in Canada

By the end of the evening, attendees will have:

✔ Clear understanding of how business works in Canada
✔ Insight into real challenges and opportunities
✔ Practical steps to take next
✔ New connections within the community