From Las Vegas to the front line: Andrii Matiukha transforms casinos into a fund for national revival

When most entrepreneurs fled Ukraine, Andrii Matiukha did the opposite—he invested in the country’s future through the most unexpected channel. The founder of Favbet proves that even the most controversial industries can become a driving force for national revival, writes EUToday Correspondents.

Over two and a half decades, Andrii Matiukha has built a true business dynasty: more than 20 companies across five countries, billions of hryvnias to the state budget, and thousands of jobs. But the real sensation began with the onset of war.

The scandalous math of patriotism
600+ million hryvnias for the armed forces of Ukraine. A number that silences even the fiercest critics of the gambling industry. Andrii Matiukha has proven: when a nation's survival is at stake, the source of funding becomes secondary.

The Billionaire Casino in the heart of Kyiv isn’t just a luxurious venue with 100 million hryvnias in investment. It’s a symbolic gesture: Ukraine will not surrender, even as rockets explode nearby. 60% of foreign guests aren’t just tourists—they’re a testament to trust in Ukraine’s economy.

Inheritance of the 'forbidden fruit'
In 2025, the management of the business empire passed to Andrii’s son, Dmytro Matiukha. A decision that speaks louder than a thousand speeches about belief in Ukraine’s future. Even in the midst of war, the Matiukha family plans to stay and grow their business on home soil.

The paradox of a responsible 'sin'
The loudest controversy around Andrii Matiukha is his fight against gambling addiction. While earning from gambling, he opens the “Prostir Zhyttia. Life Space”, the first national study on gambling addiction under the patronage of the Ministry of Health- these are the initiatives that shatter stereotypes about “irresponsible” casino owners.

Sport as an Investment in Victory
The “Sylnishi Razom” programme from the Favbet Foundation is not a PR stunt—it’s a strategic investment in the nation’s psychological health. Free access to sports classes for children of military personnel and displaced families, funding of international competitions, and 5,500 sets of sports equipment—numbers that speak for themselves.

The “Superheroes Club” helps war-affected children stabilize their emotional state through sports. Over 350 teenagers have completed free IT courses. A judo championship and the “Olympic Nadiyi” boxing festival with 200+ young athletes are acts of resistance—proof that Ukraine is not just surviving, but winning.

Matiukha’s formula for success

Legality + Transparency + Responsibility = National Interest

Andrii Valeriyovych Matiukha is demonstrating a new standard for Ukrainian business: when personal ambition aligns with the state’s needs. In times when every hryvnia can mean the difference between defeat and victory, his model shows how even a “dubious” business can become a pillar of the nation.

Critics may debate the ethics of using casino money for patriotic causes. But the facts are undeniable:

• Favbet holds an official license,
• conducts transparent charitable work,
• creates jobs,
• and supports gambling addiction treatment programs.

Matiukha’s conclusion is simple: “A strong country is not just about the army and economy. It's about a generation that grows up confident, educated, and responsible. If we want to see Ukraine victorious tomorrow—we must invest in its children today.”

In a world where gambling industry entrepreneurs are often demonized, Andrii Matiukha offers an alternative narrative: big business as a catalyst for great deeds.

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