From Academia to Flower Farming

Liliia Kryzhak, a participant in the Women’s Opportunity Fund of Ukraine’s FemAgro education and grant program, transformed her lifelong love of flowers into a thriving agricultural business. Her company, KVITNYKARIUM (Root & Bloom), began with chrysanthemums and has grown into a professional flower farm featuring more than 140 varieties.

Originally from central Ukraine, Liliia built a successful academic career, earning a PhD in food technology and spending over 25 years in science and teaching. Over time, her passion for flowers became her entrepreneurial path. Today, she runs a flower farm in the Vinnytsia region, cultivating chrysanthemums alongside lilies, dahlias, alstroemeria, and other decorative plants. What started as sharing flower photos online evolved into steady sales and a loyal community.

Participation in the FemAgro program marked a turning point. A $3,500 grant enabled Liliia to build a professional greenhouse, improve growing conditions, and expand production — turning a passion project into a sustainable business.

Today, KVITNYKARIUM operates as a full-scale enterprise with diversified sales channels, strong online presence, and a family-based team, demonstrating how expertise, persistence, and targeted support can help women entrepreneurs grow resilient businesses.