Mechanisms of Entrepreneurial Activity Support During Wartime: National Context and International Approaches

The article explores the urgent issues of designing and implementing mechanisms to support entrepreneurial activity during wartime as a key factor in ensuring economic resilience, preserving employment, and preparing for post-war recovery. In the context of full-scale military invasion, structural imbalances, declining export potential, and the destruction of critical infrastructure, Ukraine’s entrepreneurial sector has faced significant challenges requiring prompt governmental response. The aim of the study is to provide a theoretical and methodological justification and a practical analysis of national mechanisms for supporting entrepreneurship during wartime, as well as to examine international experience with the goal of developing an effective state policy framework for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). The research systematizes fiscal, financial-credit, regulatory, and institutional support tools, including tax benefits, the “Affordable Loans 5–7–9%” program, business relocation initiatives, “eRobota” grant projects, and the activities of international donors (USAID, EU, GIZ, UNDP). A comparative analysis of support practices in countries with experience of armed conflict (Croatia, Israel, Georgia) is conducted, highlighting effective approaches such as deregulation, promotion of veteran entrepreneurship, innovation development, and the integration of internally displaced people through self-employment. The study substantiates that a sustainable support strategy should combine flexible national instruments with international technical assistance, taking into account sectoral, regional, and social dimensions. Practical directions for improving business support policy are proposed, including the development of digital interaction platforms, expansion of adaptation programs for affected enterprises, support for innovative entrepreneurship, and the formation of a systemic model for post-war economic recovery. It is emphasized that the systemic integration of national and international efforts in supporting MSMEs lays the foundation for economic resilience, regional development, and inclusive growth in wartime conditions. Future research prospects include evaluating the effectiveness of implemented mechanisms, modeling long-term recovery scenarios, and examining the role of entrepreneurship in Ukraine’s post-conflict economic transformation.