Export Academy Ukraine

The 'Export Academy Ukraine' project aimed to create a robust training program for graduates of the earlier Train the Trainers Pilot 2019 and Train the Trainers 2020/2021 initiatives. During these preparatory programs, participants, identified as Regional Export Consultants (RECs), collaborated with international experts.

Their training focused on developing comprehensive training courses, selecting appropriate tools, conducting workshops effectively, and providing constructive feedback on assignments. A primary outcome was the development of the structure and content for a new training program specifically designed to foster the export development and enhancement of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Ukraine.

Local export consultants successfully launched the developed training methodology in a pilot program during a six-month period from August to December 2022. This pilot directly aimed at improving the export skills of representatives from Ukrainian SMEs, adhering to the project's new action plan.

As part of this initiative, six online workshops were conducted for Ukrainian SMEs. These were complemented by feedback sessions on homework assignments, delivered in a trainer-led format under the guidance of international mentors. Additionally, 20 companies received written feedback on their submitted homework through a self-paced learning model.

The preparation and execution of these training activities by the RECs were closely supervised by international experts, ensuring quality and adherence to best practices. This layered approach combined both direct training and ongoing mentorship.

The initial stage of the Export Academy included online Master Training for RECs, fostering their independent work and facilitating a collaborative learning methodology. This was crucial for them to develop the structure and content of the export training program under expert guidance. A significant number of participants, 144 in total, successfully met the program requirements.

Among them, 118 SMEs completed beginner-level training through self-directed learning, showcasing the program's accessibility, while 26 SME representatives completed advanced-level training, indicating its depth. Nineteen enthusiastic export consultants then piloted their newly acquired knowledge and skills, with the explicit goal of boosting the export capabilities of local companies in the ensuing years. Discussions were also held with these consultants and representatives from the Ukrainian Enterprise Export Agency (EEPO) to plan future activities, ensuring the continued utilization of training materials and the expertise of local consultants independently.

Through a process of co-creation, several key tasks were accomplished: Videos and materials for six distinct training modules were produced in Ukrainian, making the content accessible to local participants. Six virtual workshops were conducted entirely in Ukrainian, facilitating direct engagement. Advanced homework assignments received feedback in both Ukrainian and English, accommodating a broader range of participants. Finally, online meetings with international mentors provided crucial support and guidance throughout the process.

Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive. 74% reported a significant improvement in their knowledge, demonstrating the program's effectiveness. A remarkable 8% experienced 'life-changing improvements,' highlighting the profound impact for some. Another 11% reported average changes, indicating a positive shift for the vast majority.