The much-anticipated lecture series, "Exploring the Impact of EU Policies on Small and Medium Enterprises," within the Jean Monnet Module, has kicked off in April 2022. This series features speakers Tetyana Pimonenko and Oleksii Lyulyov. This course is a crucial component of the Jean Monnet Module, "EU Policies for SMEs: Perspectives and Challenges for Ukraine" (Project ID: 619999-EPP-1-2020-1-UA-EPPJMO-MODULE), designed specifically to provide valuable insights to 35 students from various specialities, as well as Ukrainian 20 professionals and entrepreneurs.

This comprehensive course aims to provide a profound understanding of EU policies, strategies, and opportunities that directly impact small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The course begins by focusing on EU policies that offer opportunities for SMEs. Participants will gain knowledge about the key aspects of EU policy, understand the structure of the EU, explore internal and external strategies for SME support, and examine EU regulations relevant to SMEs. Moving forward, the course delves into the EU's business-friendly environment. Shifting the focus to Ukrainian SMEs, the course draws from the EU's experience in supporting SME development. Participants will analyze Ukraine's global business rating, gain insights into the role of businesses in the Ukrainian economy, and assess their competitiveness. The course also explores the fundamentals of green entrepreneurship, leveraging insights from the EU. Participants, including students specializing in economics, will learn about the core aspects of green business, strategies for fostering a green entrepreneurial mindset, and the EU's support mechanisms for green businesses. Finally, the course explores social entrepreneurship, drawing insights from the EU's experience. Participants will delve into the key characteristics of social business, identify opportunities for Ukrainian enterprises in this field, and examine the EU's supportive mechanisms for social entrepreneurship.

 The Jean Monnet Module, "EU Policies Affecting SMEs: Perspectives and Challenges for Ukraine," is not only a transformative learning experience for students but also a valuable resource for professionals and entrepreneurs. It equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complex landscape of EU policies and their implications for SMEs in Ukraine. As the course progresses, it is expected to provide students and professionals with the tools to achieve success in the field of small and medium-sized enterprises in Ukraine. Stay tuned for further updates during this enlightening journey.

20.04.2022 Professors Oleksii Lyulyov and Tetiana Pimonenko, within the framework of the Jean Monnet Module "EU Policy for SMEs: Perspectives and Challenges for Ukraine" (Project ID: 619999-EPP-1-2020-1-UA-EPPJMO-MODULE), presented a lecture entitled "Green and Social Entrepreneurship: Discovering the EU Perspective for Ukraine." What made this lecture distinctive was its diverse audience, which encompassed journalists, engineers, and computer science students, all driven by their keen interest in exploring the transformative possibilities of sustainability-focused entrepreneurship.

Hosted at Sumy State University, the lecture took attendees on a captivating journey through real-life case studies and success stories taken from the dynamic world of green and social entrepreneurship in the European Union. Professors Oleksii Lyulyov and Tetyana Pimonenko guided the audience through pioneering ventures that have not only revolutionized industries but have also ignited positive change in communities, offering valuable insights into sustainable practices.

This lecture catered to the diverse interests and ambitions of an intellectually curious audience:

1. Journalists: Journalists were immersed in narratives that covered both headline-worthy endeavors and impactful social and environmental stories. They gained new perspectives that promised to enhance their reporting with stories of real significance.
2. Engineers: Engineers found inspiration in the innovative technologies that underlie green entrepreneurship. From groundbreaking renewable energy solutions to eco-friendly manufacturing processes, they saw how engineering can be a driving force behind sustainability, reducing environmental impacts and shaping a more resilient future.
3. Computer Science Students: Computer science students embarked on an exploratory journey into the potential of technology to advance social and environmental causes. They delved into digital solutions, smart city initiatives, and data-driven approaches that harness innovation for the betterment of society and the planet.

30 attendees left with a profound understanding that green and social entrepreneurship is not just an abstract concept but a tangible and transformative force that is reshaping both industries and communities. 

Twenty students from the Educational and Scientific Institute of Economics, Business, and Management participated in an educational event on May 19, 2022, as part of the Jean Monnet initiative titled "EU Policy for SMEs: Perspectives and Challenges for Ukraine" (Project ID: 619999-EPP-1-2020-1-UA-EPPJMO-MODULE). The event's primary objective was to facilitate EU SME Policy Simulation Exercises. Students assumed the roles of European Union policymakers and delved into the intricacies of policy development and implementation. Throughout these immersive sessions, guided by Professors Oleksii Lyulyov and Tetyana Pimonenko from the Department of Marketing, students actively engaged in spirited debates, conducted critical analyses, and formulated proposals for policy decisions that directly affect Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). The EU SME Policy Simulation Exercise not only offered students a distinctive and captivating learning journey but also nurtured several indispensable skills:

1. Critical Thinking: Students honed their ability to dissect intricate policy issues, identify challenges, and propose innovative solutions, fostering their critical thinking capabilities.
2. Collaboration: The exercises fostered a sense of teamwork as students collaborated to create and refine policy proposals, mirroring the collaborative nature of real-world policy development.
3. Public Speaking and Debate Skills: Through lively debates, students refined their public speaking abilities, gained confidence in articulating their viewpoints, and mastered the art of persuasive communication.
4. Policy Advocacy: By advocating for their proposed policies, students developed advocacy skills vital for future careers in economics and management.

This innovative educational approach underscores Sumy State University's unwavering commitment to equipping students with not just theoretical knowledge but also practical skills. Graduates now possess a profound understanding of EU SME policy and invaluable skills that will enable them to excel in a globalized business landscape, champion policy reforms, and contribute significantly to the growth of SMEs in Ukraine.

On June 20, 2022, Sumy State University hosted an engaging workshop titled "Supporting SMEs: EU Experience for Ukraine." The event attracted a diverse audience of over 50 participants, including university students, researchers, postgraduate students, and professionals. The workshop aimed to delve into various aspects of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) and how Ukraine can benefit from the European Union's vast experience in this field.

Throughout the day, participants had the opportunity to explore multiple critical themes, gaining valuable insights into SME development and collaboration between Ukraine and the EU. The workshop's agenda covered a wide range of topics, providing attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

Sumy State University was proud to host esteemed speakers, including Tetyana Pimonenko and Oleksii Lyulyov, who shared their expertise with enthusiasm and passion. Additionally, the event featured guest speakers from Latvia, Ukraine, Poland, and other countries, adding an international perspective to the discussions. The workshop fostered lively conversations and knowledge exchange, emphasizing the importance of cooperation between the EU and Ukraine for SME growth. It also highlighted the role of women in business, explored green business practices and sustainability, discussed youth values in modern society, and addressed challenges related to youth unemployment and self-employment opportunities. By the end of the workshop, participants left with fresh perspectives and a deeper understanding of how to navigate the complex landscape of SMEs in Ukraine. The event marked a significant step forward in promoting collaboration and knowledge sharing in the dynamic world of small and medium-sized enterprises.

Stay tuned for updates on future educational initiatives and opportunities aimed at enhancing SME development and economic growth in Ukraine.

The Summer School "How to Start a New Business: EU and Ukrainian Experience" (which started on July 4, 2022, till July 8) offered an in-depth exploration of critical aspects related to launching and managing businesses, drawing from experiences in the European Union (EU) and Ukraine.

The Summer School focused on equipping participants with the knowledge and skills required to embark on entrepreneurial journeys. The program comprised lectures and interactive seminars, fostering a deep understanding of business intricacies. The module consisted of the following topics:

1. Starting a Business in the EU: Methods for generating business ideas; Real opportunities for youth to start businesses in the EU and Ukraine; Evaluating and validating business ideas; Modern methods for presenting business concepts; Insights into bootstrapping, both successes and failures; Effective techniques for pitching business ideas.
2. Entrepreneurship in the EU and Ukraine: New Perspectives and Challenges: The main types and forms of businesses; Legislation, rules, norms, and regulations governing entrepreneurship; Social entrepreneurship opportunities for youth; The essential steps in launching a business; Business registration processes in the EU and Ukraine; Considerations for business licenses, permits, and tax compliance.
3. Family Businesses and Micro Enterprises: Insights from the EU: Understanding family businesses and their significance; Success stories of family businesses in the EU; Key features of family businesses and micro-entrepreneurs; How to initiate and operate a family business; Essential documentation for managing family businesses.
4. EU Support Mechanisms for Business Operations: Key instruments for supporting businesses based on EU experiences; Types of partnerships, along with their advantages and disadvantages; EU government policies for financing businesses; Exploring funding options, including venture capital investments, asset-based finance, crowdfunding, business angel networks, syndicates, and co-investment strategies.
5. Developing and Promoting Businesses: EU Insights: Understanding the Startup life cycle; Identifying key indicators of business success; Evaluating partnership types and their pros and cons; Crafting strategic plans for future business growth; Building strong branding and effective advertising strategies.

Students had the unique opportunity to engage with seasoned experts in their field, gaining invaluable practical insights into both the European Union (EU) and Ukrainian business landscapes. The curriculum was primarily designed to cater to Master's and Ph.D. students, fostering advanced discussions and robust interactions between students and their esteemed instructors. In exceptional cases, exceptionally high-achieving Bachelor-level students were also warmly welcomed into the program (total number of participants - 182).

The roster of lecturers featured renowned authorities from prestigious enterprises in the EU and Ukraine, ensuring a well-rounded and comprehensive learning experience. Particularly noteworthy among these experts were Vladimir Nesterenko, who serves as the Head of Marketing at Lombard Treasury; Dmytro Proshkin, the Head of eComm at Procter & Gamble; Olefirenko Oleg, Director of Technochim LLC; Kobushko Ihor, Head of NGO «Institute of Business Education»; Roman Chupandin, Private entrepreneur; Sergey Pimonenko, Familly business; and Henryk Dźwigoł, who holds advisory roles at EKSPLO-TECH sp. z o.o. and AGAN (the training was conducted online). These accomplished professionals shared their wealth of knowledge to enrich the program.

Moreover, the program featured an engaging business simulation game, adding a dynamic element to the educational experience. It culminated in an enlightening excursion to explore successful business cases in Sumy. The program's distinguished lecturers, including Oleksii Lyulyov (Professor at Sumy State University), Tetyana Pimoneko (Professor at Sumy State University), Tatjana Tambovceva (businesswoman, Professor at Riga Technical University, Latvia); and Yurii Bilan (Professor at Rzeszów University of Technology, Poland), played a pivotal role in shaping this immersive and enriching educational journey.

Sumy State University's Department of Marketing orchestrated a captivating lecture series that spanned from September to November 2022, drawing 40 students from Ukraine Western Ukrainian National University, National TU "Dniprov Polytechnic", Odessa II Mechnikov National University, National University of Water and Environmental, Kharkiv National University of Economics, Simon Kuznets Kharkiv National University of Economics, Kharkiv. These lectures revolved around the theme of the European Union's support for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and were conducted within the framework of the Jean Monnet Module titled "EU Policy for SMEs: Perspectives and Challenges for Ukraine" (Project ID: 619999-EPP-1-2020-1-UA-EPPJMO-MODULE).

Throughout this illuminating lecture series, students were granted a distinctive opportunity to delve deep into the intricacies of EU policy concerning SMEs. Under the guidance of Professor Oleksii Lyulyov and Professor Tetyana Pimonenko, the module featured captivating lectures, each dedicated to a specific facet of EU policy:

1. "Basics of EU Policy: Opportunities for SMEs" - The inaugural lectures laid a robust foundation by introducing students to fundamental aspects of EU policy. Topics explored included the EU's organizational structure, both internal and external strategies for SME support, and crucial EU legislations pertaining to SMEs.
2. "EU Business-Friendly Environment" - In the second series of lectures, participants delved into the intricacies of the Small and Business Act, regional SME policies, and initiatives designed to foster entrepreneurship within the EU.
3. "Ukrainian SMEs as Catalysts for Economic Growth" - The third cycle of lectures delved deeper into the role of SMEs in driving Ukrainian economic development, drawing valuable insights from the EU's experiences. This session examined global business rankings, the significance of businesses in the Ukrainian economy, and the pivotal role of local businesses as pillars of economic growth.
4. "Green and Social Entrepreneurship: EU Perspectives for Ukraine" - The final sessions ventured into the fascinating domains of green and social entrepreneurship. Attendees acquired priceless understanding of the distinctive traits and facets of such enterprises and uncovered the effective strategies employed by the EU to foster and support green and social entrepreneurship.

Throughout the lecture series, students actively engaged with the professors, posing thought-provoking questions and participating in stimulating discussions. This dynamic exchange of ideas underscored the significance of such modules in nurturing a deeper appreciation for international business dynamics and enriching EU-Ukraine relations.

In October 2022, the course "EU Business Values and Ethics" will begin as part of the Jean Monnet Module "EU Policy for SMEs: Perspectives and Challenges for Ukraine" (Project ID: 619999-EPP-1-2020-1-UA-EPPJMO-MODULE). This course caters to students from diverse fields, including Economics and Management, Journalism, Engineering, and Computer Science. 

The course aims to explore EU values and ethics in the context of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). It covers various themes to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the values and ethics that drive successful businesses in the European Union and Ukraine. The themes covered in the course include EU values and ethics of SMEs, successful EU entrepreneurs, leadership and teamwork, women in business in the EU and Ukraine, and a comparative analysis of the business sectors for women in the EU and Ukraine.

This course promises to provide valuable insights into the values and ethics that underpin successful businesses in the EU and Ukraine. It equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complex landscape of business ethics and values in the contemporary world. Stay tuned for updates as the course progresses on this enlightening journey.

If you are interested to join the course, please send the email to Tetyana_pimonenko@econ.sumdu.edu.ua

10 October 2022, the course "European Business Values and Ethics" was launched as part of the Jean Monnet Module "EU Policy for SMEs: Perspectives and Challenges for Ukraine" (Project ID: 619999-EPP-1-2020-1-UA-EPPJMO-MODULE). This course is actively developing and attracting students from various fields, including economics and management, journalism, engineering, and computer science.

The course is dedicated to studying European values and ethics in the context of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). It covers various topics to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the values and ethics that support successful businesses in the European Union and Ukraine. The course thoroughly examines the fundamentals of business values, the importance of solidarity in business, and the differences in business values between Ukraine and the EU. In particular, the course focuses on successful European entrepreneurs, revealing the most and least important personal qualities and methods for assessing entrepreneurial skills. The topics of leadership and teamwork are another important focus of the course. Participants learn about the essence of leadership, strategies for developing leadership skills, the art of team organization, and the development of creative thinking within a team.

Significant attention is given to the role of women in business in both the EU and Ukraine. The course explores gender parity in these regions, identifies the most suitable business sectors for women, and examines the lifestyle of women in business. Additionally, the course provides a deep analysis of business sectors for women in the EU and Ukraine, with a primary focus on differences and opportunities. It takes into account the main opportunities and challenges for women in business, current trends in women's self-employment, provides a national and regional overview, and outlines barriers to the development of women's leadership.
The "EU Business Values and Ethics" course is a dynamic platform for students from various specialties to gain valuable insights into the core principles that support successful businesses in the EU and Ukraine.

Stay tuned for further updates on this enriching educational journey.

In November 2022, a workshop on "Green Business Among Youth" took place. The event attracted over 40 participants, including students, postgraduates, researchers, and teachers from different countries, namely Ukraine, Poland, and Latvia.
The workshop served as an enriching platform for participants to delve into the intricacies of green business practices and their vital role in addressing contemporary environmental challenges. The gathering was a diverse mix of young minds, each bringing their unique perspective and passion for sustainability. During the workshop, participants worked collaboratively in groups, fostering the development of essential soft skills such as leadership, teamwork, and effective communication. These skills are crucial not only in green entrepreneurship but also in various aspects of personal and professional development. Throughout the event, attendees were treated to an array of engaging activities and informative sessions. Expert speakers and facilitators, renowned in the field of green entrepreneurship, provided valuable insights into the principles of eco-friendly business models, sustainable resource management, and the importance of social responsibility.

One of the workshop's highlights was the lively discussions and brainstorming sessions that encouraged creative thinking and problem-solving. Participants had the opportunity to collaborate, share their innovative ideas, and explore avenues for launching environmentally conscious ventures. Moreover, the workshop featured case studies and success stories of young entrepreneurs who have made a significant impact in the realm of green business. Their experiences provided invaluable inspiration and practical guidance to the budding eco-entrepreneurs in attendance. As a testament to their active participation and commitment to sustainable business practices, all workshop attendees received certificates of achievement. These certificates symbolize not only the knowledge gained but also the shared vision of a greener, more sustainable world.

The "Green Business Among Youth" workshop stands as a pivotal milestone in empowering the younger generation with the tools and insights needed to drive positive change in the business world. It is a testament to the potential of youth-driven environmental entrepreneurship and the collective effort to build a more sustainable future.

Stay tuned for updates on future workshops and initiatives aimed at fostering eco-conscious leadership and innovation among our youth.

In the pursuit of strengthening business ties and promoting a friendly entrepreneurial atmosphere, a captivating webinar "EU and Ukrainian Friendly-Business Environment" unfolded in 10 December, 2022. This enlightening event was conducted as part of the Jean Monnet Module "EU Policy for SMEs: Perspectives and Challenges for Ukraine", Project ID: 619999-EPP-1-2020-1-UA-EPPJMO-MODULE.

Esteemed guest speakers, Tatjana Tambovceva, a successful businesswoman and a Professor at Riga Technical University in Latvia, and Yurii Bilan, a Professor at Rzeszów University of Technology in Poland, graced the virtual stage. Their insights shed light on various aspects of business within the European Union and Ukraine, offering valuable perspectives to 35 attendees. The webinar covered an array of compelling themes, each bearing significance in the context of fostering a friendly business environment. Delving into the promising opportunities available for young entrepreneurs in both the European Union and Ukraine, this session inspired the next generation of business leaders. It also explored the essential criteria and requirements set by the European Union for businesses, ensuring alignment with international standards. Additionally, the session shined a spotlight on the role of women in business, examining gender diversity and empowerment within the entrepreneurial landscape. Showcasing successful eco-friendly business practices from the European Union, the discussion highlighted sustainable approaches to business development. Drawing from EU experiences, another session uncovered the dynamics of family-owned businesses and micro-enterprises, offering insights into their growth and sustainability. One of the remarkable outcomes of the "EU and Ukrainian Friendly-Business Environment" webinar is the establishment of an online network. This network will serve as a bridge connecting EU and Ukrainian entrepreneurs and educators, fostering ongoing collaboration and knowledge sharing. It is poised to play a pivotal role in disseminating the key findings and results of the EU4SMEs project in the future.

This webinar not only enriched participants with valuable insights but also laid the foundation for stronger connections and collaborations between the EU and Ukraine in the realm of entrepreneurship.

We are pleased to announce the successful conclusion of the "European Business Values and Ethics" course within the Jean Monnet Module "EU Policy for SMEs: Perspectives and Challenges for Ukraine" (Project ID: 619999-EPP-1-2020-1-UA-EPPJMO-MODULE). The course was provided from October to December 2022. The course, featuring speakers Tetyna Pimonenko and Oleksii Lyulyov, witnessed active participation from a diverse group of 70 students representing various specialties, including Economics and Management, Journalism, Engineering, and Computer Science.

Throughout the course, students delved into the intricate realm of European business values and ethics, gaining a profound understanding of their significance in the context of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Speakers Tetyana Pimonenko and Oleksii Lyulyov conducted both traditional lectures and interactive sessions, unveiling the essence of European business values and ethics. Participants engaged in seminars and group discussions, actively sharing their perspectives and ideas. Practical sessions proved to be particularly beneficial for fostering critical thinking among students, equipping them with the necessary skills for ethical decision-making in business. As a testament to their dedication and hard work, all participants have been awarded certificates recognizing their successful completion of the course. These certificates not only symbolize their commitment to learning but also serve as a testament to their newly acquired knowledge in the field of European business values and ethics.

The "European Business Values and Ethics" course has enriched the academic journey of these 70 students, providing them with insights that extend beyond the classroom. These young minds are now better equipped to navigate the complex landscape of business ethics, contributing to ethical business practices in Ukraine and beyond.

We extend our congratulations to all the students on their achievements and look forward to witnessing the positive impact of their enhanced ethical thinking in their future endeavors. Stay tuned for more updates on our educational initiatives and opportunities.

The highly anticipated Lecture Series on "EU policy for small and medium enterprises" has successfully concluded in December 2022. This series, a vital component of the Jean Monnet Module «EU policy for SMEs: perspectives and challenges for Ukraine» (619999-EPP-1-2020-1-UA-EPPJMO-MODULE), attracted more than 30 students from various disciplines, including Economics and Management, Journalism, Engineering, and Computer Science.

Throughout the course, participants delved into the complexities of EU policies and their impact on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The students displayed commendable dedication and enthusiasm, which translated into valuable insights and knowledge acquisition. One of the highlights of this series was the participation of prominent experts from the business world. Distinguished guests such as Volodymyr Nesterenko, Oleksii Dubina, Volodmyr Rudyka, Serhii Pimonenko, and many others shared their extensive expertise and experiences with the eager learners. These interactions enriched the course, providing practical perspectives on the challenges and opportunities faced by SMEs in the context of EU policies. Furthermore, the course benefited from the invaluable contributions of EU experts who joined to share their insights. Experts like Tatjana Tambovceva from Latvia, Aleksy Kwilinski from Poland, Yurii Bilan, also from Poland, and many more, provided a comprehensive understanding of EU features in boosting SMEs' development. Their expertise shed light on the intricacies of EU policies and their practical application in supporting the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises. As a testament to their hard work and dedication, all participants have been awarded certificates recognizing their achievements. These certificates serve as a testament to their commitment to gaining a deeper understanding of EU policies affecting SMEs.

The successful completion of the Lecture Series marks a significant milestone in the educational journey of these students. Armed with newfound knowledge and insights, they are better equipped to navigate the intricate landscape of EU policies and contribute to the growth and success of small and medium-sized enterprises in Ukraine.

We look forward to witnessing the positive impact of this course on the careers and endeavors of the participants, as they continue to apply their learning and expertise in the real world. Stay tuned for future updates on our educational initiatives and opportunities.