From humble beginnings as a donation centre, DON’YA Ukraine’s Kitchen has grown into two thriving restaurant locations in Edmonton. Now, they’re setting their sights on Dragons’ Den — and on franchising across North America.
DON’YA Ukraine’s Kitchen, founded by Janice Krissa and her daughter Jorgia Moore, is preparing to pitch their growing Ukrainian food business on CBC’s Dragons’ Den. Their goal? To secure investment to help fund their ambitious plan to open 300 franchises across Canada and beyond in the next 10 years.
The business began as a volunteer-led donation centre supporting Ukrainian newcomers. But with time, talent, and tenacity, it transformed into a full-service kitchen — and now, a recognized community staple with two locations in Edmonton.
Speaking to the Edmonton Journal, Janice Krissa shared her excitement:
“We’re dreaming really big… We have the perfect recipe because I’m 50, my daughter is 26 — so she brings the youth perspective, I bring the experience.”
The DON’YA team will pitch to a panel of renowned investors including Michele Romanow, Arlene Dickinson, and Simu Liu. They hope the Dragons will help bring authentic Ukrainian meals — and meaningful newcomer employment — to communities across Canada.
For the full story: https://edmontonjournal.com/news/edmonton-restaurant-dragons-den-donya-ukraines-kitchen
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