The Finnish consultancy firm Sirav is actively seeking Ukrainian companies to serve as subcontractors for Finland’s metal industry. With support from Finnpartnership, Sirav has been able to build a solid partner network and develop local expertise.

Based in Laukaa, Finland, Sirav Oy provides expert services for international sourcing and supply chain development. Entrepreneur Aapo Varis had existing ties to Ukraine, which lowered the threshold for exploring the country’s business potential.

Together with a Ukrainian partner, Varis began exploring how to foster collaboration between Ukrainian and Finnish companies. The initiative was kickstarted with Finnpartnership’s Business Partnership Support.

Sirav’s goal is to identify Ukrainian subcontractors for Finnish metal industry companies. Finnpartnership’s support has covered costs related to partner identification and the establishment of a local entity.

“Without Finnpartnership’s support and expertise, a company of Sirav’s size would likely not have pursued the project on this scale,” says Varis.

Finding the right partners takes groundwork

Sirav’s project lead in Ukraine, Dmitry Paderin, has been actively engaging with potential partners through on-site visits and discussions.

“We’ve assessed the capabilities of around 10 to 15 companies. Technical skills have been solid, but documentation related to quality assurance still needs improvement.”

So far, Sirav has deepened cooperation with three Ukrainian companies. The aim is to develop their operations to meet the standards of Finland and other EU countries.

Varis notes that Ukrainian partners are capable of producing various components and assemblies for Finnish machinery and equipment manufacturers, including welded structures, castings, and machined parts. One of Ukraine’s competitive advantages is its skilled yet cost-effective workforce.

“One of Ukraine’s competitive advantages is its skilled yet cost-effective workforce.

War has had limited impact on business

Sirav has supported its partners in improving product quality and documentation. At the same time, expertise in sales, marketing, customer relations, order fulfilment, and contract management is being transferred to Ukraine.

One of Sirav’s partners, previously known to Varis, had its facility in Eastern Ukraine occupied by Russian forces. The company continued operations by establishing a new site in Western Ukraine, where Sirav’s other partners are also located.

Ukrainian subcontractors have already received orders from Finnish companies, though Varis believes the volume could be higher.

“Finnish companies are keen to support Ukraine, but understandably they are concerned about the risks of trading with a country at war.”

Varis points out that Ukraine, twice the size of Finland, is only partially affected by the ongoing conflict. Sirav’s partners operate in areas that have been spared from airstrikes.

“There were logistical challenges at the start of the war, but transport to Finland now functions quite normally.”

Sirav’s commitment to Ukraine is evident in its establishment of a subsidiary in the country. Varis encourages other companies to explore opportunities in Ukraine, contributing to the country’s reconstruction efforts, which are also supported by the Finnish government.

Visiting Ukraine in person is worthwhile

Finnpartnership’s regional coordinator Tetiana Filipovych, based in Kyiv, recommends that interested companies also visit Lviv, a key economic hub in Ukraine.

“A well-organised trip helps assess risks and the security situation for your business. It’s also important to explore logistics, supply chains, war risk insurance, and government regulations.”

Rather than setting up a company immediately, Filipovych advises starting with a reliable local partner. A local partner understands the language and often has existing relationships that help launch operations.

“Business culture in Ukraine differs from Finland. It often focuses on immediate action and quick wins.”

Finnpartnership’s matchmaking service is a good starting point

Initial contacts can be made from Finland. Finnpartnership’s Matchmaking service features around 20 Ukrainian companies from sectors such as construction, agriculture, logistics, textiles, metal, and chemicals.

“These are vetted companies seeking partnerships and trade with Finnish businesses.”

However, Filipovych emphasises that running a business in Ukraine requires a local presence.

“A strong local team of professionals is more effective in finding the right partners and customers. You don’t need high-level contacts to secure your first deals.”

Make use of Finnpartnership’s presence

“Finnpartnership can support Finnish companies planning to expand and build long-term partnerships in Ukraine. This makes the first phase of expansion less risky,” Filipovych explains.

The Business Partnership Support can cover costs related to identifying local partners, drafting business plans, assessing environmental and social impacts, piloting technological solutions, and training local staff.

Filipovych is happy to discuss business ideas and answer questions. Companies often ask about potential partners and clients, safe production locations, and sector-specific regulations. Expertise from the broader Team Finland network in Ukraine is also available.

Additional information:

Tetiana Filipovych

Regional Coordinator – Ukraine

tetiana.filipovych@finnpartnership.fi +380 (0)67 551 9265