SWEF - Robert's story

Robert started making chocolate in Ukraine in 2014, running a small factory until the war forced him to leave. Determined to rebuild, he slowly began working towards relaunching his business. A SWEF grant gave him the equipment, and the confidence, to begin again.

“I came to the UK with nothing and had to start over — new country, new language, new business.

“At first, I was working jobs with long hours to earn and save money. My goal was to buy equipment and start making chocolate again, but it was difficult. I first heard about the SWEF Grant on a business course in Swindon, in 2022 or 2023. I had no English, and I didn’t really know how to speak to people — that’s probably what stopped me from applying for support.

“By 2024, I had saved enough to begin setting up my business here, but I still needed more equipment to get going properly. That’s when I applied for the grant. I needed a set of machinery to keep my milk and dark chocolate separate. Thanks to the SWEF Grant, I could buy it. It made a huge difference. For the first time, I could produce both types at the same time — just in time for the Christmas market in Swindon. I could offer more choice, and people loved the products.

“Running a business in a new country hasn’t been easy. In Ukraine, I knew how to reach customers — I knew the words that worked. Here, it’s taken nearly three years to learn the language and culture. It’s been hard, especially when it came to getting finance. Because I’m here under a Ukrainian visa, it’s difficult to meet the criteria for business loans, even though I’m allowed to work and run a company.

“That’s why the grant from the Foundation was so important. They didn’t judge me on my visa status. They looked at my plan and what I was trying to build. The application process was friendly and supportive — not like a cold financial institution. 

“I’m glad I stopped being afraid and asked for support. The grant gave me the help I needed to relaunch my chocolate business. Now, I’m exploring new ranges and new opportunities. Slowly, things are growing — and I’m proud of how far I’ve come.”

Read Robert's story in full in our 50th Anniversary Publication, by clicking here.