Mr. Panchenko, you have over 15 years of business experience. How does the American market differ from the Ukrainian one?
— In the US, business works on clear rules and transparent competition. Everything depends on service quality and reputation. If you are a professional, the market accepts you. When I launched Valera Logistics from scratch, I saw how essential consistency is here: documentation, safety, and responsibility toward clients are non-negotiable standards.
You developed a Ukrainian visual-control technology for transport. How did you manage to introduce it to the US market?
— Technology sells when it delivers real results. My front-view mirror system reduces blind spots and significantly lowers accident risks. When American partners saw that the solution improves safety in practice, integration moved quickly. In the US, innovation is valued when it works today — not just as a concept.
You are also an associate member of the Ukrainian Association of Scientists. What does this community give you?
— It’s a circle of researchers, engineers, and innovators that shapes your professional worldview. Being admitted by the Presidium under the leadership of Academician Onypko is an honor. Every idea goes through a deep expert discussion, and that strengthens you as an inventor.
You have official recognitions from professional organizations. Which ones matter most to you?
— I especially value the Appreciation Award from the Association of International Road Carriers of Ukraine. They recognized my contribution to transport safety — particularly the mirror system that improves visibility and protects drivers. I also received an acknowledgment from the Ukrainian Association of Scientists for active innovation and practical implementation of new technologies. Recognition from industry professionals is the most meaningful.
You served as a jury member of the City Corporate Innovation Accelerator. What did this role mean to you?
— It was a big responsibility. City Accelerator gathered 32 teams developing solutions for Kyiv — from municipal services to digital infrastructure. My task was to evaluate practicality, innovation, and scalability. Being a jury member is not about status; it is a chance to support Ukrainian innovation and witness the enormous potential of our tech community. Ukrainians create solutions on par with Silicon Valley.
You also received the “Golden Cross of Honor and Valor — Knight of the Homeland” Order. What was it awarded for?
— For developing and implementing my visual-control technology and for contributing to the modernization of international logistics. This award symbolizes that consistent work and discipline eventually bring real achievements.
Mr. Ihor, what advice would you give to young Ukrainian entrepreneurs who want to enter the U.S. market?
— First of all, do not idealize America. It is a huge market, but also an extremely competitive one. Here, every step must be well-reasoned. There are three key pieces of advice I always give to young entrepreneurs.
First — speak the language of value.
In America, no one is interested in vague statements or “future potential” presentations. People want to see a functional product that solves a concrete problem today. If your technology delivers measurable results, you will be heard.
Second — be disciplined in your processes.
The American market operates on rules: safety, accountability, legal transparency, quality of service. Success comes to those who are systematic. In my experience with Valera Logistics, it was precisely well-defined processes that allowed us to grow quickly.
Third — do not be afraid to start small.
Many Ukrainian entrepreneurs believe they must scale immediately. In the U.S., those who succeed are the ones who start with one product or one service and execute it flawlessly. Americans highly value stability and predictability.
And most importantly — the Ukrainian technological school is competitive on a global level. My visual-control solution proved that an innovation built in Ukraine can work successfully in the United States. So do not underestimate yourselves.
I always tell young entrepreneurs: “America does not forgive the weak, and it does not stand in the way of the strong. If you can create real value, you will find your place here”.
Olena Yaremchuk
Photo from the archive of Ihor Panchenko
