Corporate Philanthropy Turned into Humanitarian Action
When Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Favbet Foundation, founded in 2020 by entrepreneur Andrii Matiukha, swiftly adapted to the new reality. Initially focused on youth education and sports, the foundation redirected most resources towards supporting Ukraine’s defense forces and war victims.
“Our work has gained new significance. If we can change something, we do it. We have the resources, team, and partnerships. That’s why Favbet Foundation exists,” explains Andrii Matiukha. Under his guidance, this corporate social responsibility initiative has transformed into a critical humanitarian operation, mobilizing relief domestically and internationally.
Foundation president Andrii Matiukha has a track record of ambitious projects. A successful entrepreneur in tech and gambling industries, he established Favbet Foundation to build an "ecosystem of social impact" covering sports, health, education, and science. Once war broke out, Matiukha leveraged business resources and global connections to aid Ukraine’s resilience.
“When the country is at war, business must actively contribute. Supporting the military and helping displaced families isn’t just charity; it’s our duty to our country,” Matiukha stresses. Over two years, Favbet Foundation has provided drones, vehicles for Ukraine’s armed forces, and medical equipment for hospitals. Yet, its standout achievement is mobilizing international partnerships.
Andrii Matiukha: “Ukrainians should feel supported both at home and abroad.”
Source - Shutterstock
One of the foundation's notable collaborations emerged in Croatia, leveraging Favbet’s presence there. Matiukha joined forces with Croatian NGO Dobro Dobrim, establishing a humanitarian supply route from Zagreb to Ukraine. In late 2023, their joint effort delivered a 150-ton convoy of essentials such as food, clothing, hygiene supplies, and 13,000 kg of disinfectants crucial for hospitals, helping thousands affected by war.
These shipments were part of sustained support. Following the Kakhovka Dam disaster in June 2023, Favbet Foundation and Croatian groups Crvena Kalyna and Dobro Dobrim rapidly dispatched over 11 tons of aid to Kherson refugees. Matiukha emphasizes the crucial role of these international partners: “Ukrainians deeply appreciate unity and support. Dobro Dobrim continues tirelessly helping our people.”
The international aid significantly targeted frontline regions like Kharkiv. Favbet Foundation intends to maintain these efforts through 2025. “We never stop,” says Matiukha. “Every day is a chance to help, and we never miss these opportunities.”
Supporting Ukrainian Refugees in Croatia
Source - archives of the Favbet Foundation
Beyond aid shipments, Favbet Foundation actively assists Ukrainian refugees in Croatia. Shortly after the invasion began, the foundation helped launch an Adaptation Center in Zagreb offering language courses, legal aid, psychological support, and practical assistance to displaced Ukrainians. In 2023, the initiative earned the “Responsible Country” award by MMR and delo.ua.
Matiukha also actively promotes community-building for refugees. In June 2023, he personally supported a sports festival organized by Zagreb-based Crvena Kalyna, attended by over 450 Ukrainian refugees. These events help restore a sense of normalcy for displaced families, reminding them they remain connected to their homeland.
Matiukha’s involvement continues through celebrating Ukrainian traditions abroad. Around St. Nicholas Day, he personally organized festivities for Ukrainian children in Zagreb, providing over 100 educational kits and hosting festive activities to bring joy during difficult times.
Uniting Through Sports
From London to Invictus Favbet Foundation recognizes sports as a powerful unifier and healer. In May 2023, Matiukha supported Ukrainian war veterans’ participation in the RideLondon cycling challenge, highlighting their resilience internationally. His commitment to veteran rehabilitation dates back to sponsoring Ukraine’s Invictus Games athletes in 2021, later inspiring the foundation’s wartime humanitarian approach.
Andrii Matiukha’s Favbet Foundation: A Lesson in International Cooperation
Favbet Foundation exemplifies how private philanthropy can effectively support international humanitarian aid. By leveraging business networks and infrastructure, the foundation rapidly delivered impactful results — support centers, significant humanitarian convoys, and cultural events fostering community resilience.
These initially urgent responses have evolved into structured long-term strategies. By 2025, Favbet Foundation plans further expansions, including new rehabilitation centers (“Re:start” program), sports activities for youth, educational initiatives, and sustained humanitarian support from European allies.
Such grassroots partnerships highlight how private organizations like Favbet Foundation, working alongside global volunteers, significantly enhance relief efforts. Encouraging these collaborations could be strategic for governments and donors seeking effective pathways to support Ukraine’s recovery.
