Ukrainian Coworking Operator Platforma Eyes Expansion as Founder Focuses On Rebuilding Kyiv’s Business Ecosystem
Refael Yucha, co-founder of one of Ukraine’s largest coworking networks Coworking Platforma, has outlined a growth strategy centered on rebuilding Kyiv’s professional and entrepreneurial networks.
Since its founding in 2014, Platforma has expanded to three locations in the Ukrainian capital, now totaling 15,000 m2 with over 90% occupancy, says this Village.com article.
Refael Yucha, an Israeli entrepreneur, remained in Ukraine after the 2022 full-scale invasion and emphasizes the importance of physical presence for business continuity. Alongside Platforma, he also runs Techstate, a company offering outsourcing, outstaffing, and R&D center services for both local and international clients.
Refael Yucha notes that the war has fractured Ukraine’s professional networks, as many business contacts have left the country and communication has declined. In response, he says, Platforma has focused on reconnecting and expanding the local ecosystem, including bringing in international companies from sectors like crypto, gaming, and insurtech.
“Most of our coworking residents are startups or product companies. For example, we currently have 120 NVIDIA developers working with us. They chose Platforma because they understood that its atmosphere matches the values of an innovative company that strives to support the spirit of creativity and development among its employees”, explains the founder, who also wants to attract global firms such as Apple or Netflix to Kyiv.
Since 2022, Platforma has launched side initiatives, such as Platforma Office Club, offering custom-built managed office floors tailored to business needs. A recent 1,800 m² space in “Platforma’s Korolenkivska building” was fully booked prior to opening, they state. Platforma also supports community-building through initiatives such as Platforma Camp, Platforma Charity, and Platforma Wellness, mentions Village.com’s article.
Looking ahead, the group’s priority remains strengthening Ukraine’s internal ecosystem before any international expansion.
Platforma sees the reconstruction of community ties, peer-to-peer learning, and business partnerships as key to long-term resilience. While expansion abroad remains a future possibility, current efforts are directed toward maintaining momentum, supporting creative professionals, and anchoring Kyiv as a center of business and innovation.
Pic source: Platforma website
