Starting out in Ukraine in 2004, I saw an opportunity: smaller businesses needed a way to share their stories, yet few platforms catered to them. As a university student, I built a basic news distribution system, and over the years, that idea grew into PRNEWS.IO — a platform that today serves 30,000 clients worldwide and connects them to journalists and media outlets across 190 countries.
In 2018, thanks to Estonia’s digital identity program, e-Residency, we established the company in Estonia, expanded sales in the European market, and strengthened our reach. We operate without debt, driven by a strong, independent team of 56 people.
Entrepreneurship in Challenging Contexts
Entrepreneurship, especially when navigating unique economic and geopolitical challenges, hasn’t been without its hurdles.
Key challenges included:
- Expanding internationally.
- Rebranding and automating operations.
- Facing the impact of the Ukrainian war.
These experiences taught me that success isn’t just about adjusting to change; it’s about staying grounded in purpose. With PRNEWS.IO, we’ve made it possible for anyone — from local brands to global companies — to connect with audiences through news platforms worldwide.
Redefining Media Connections with Medialister
After years in content distribution, I noticed a shift: traditional display ads were becoming less effective as audiences tuned them out. Medialister was born to address this gap, connecting brands with media outlets for editorial ad placements.
Editorial ads provide a genuine alternative, allowing brands to:
- Be part of the story rather than interrupting it.
- Build authentic connections with audiences.
Supporting Smaller Publications
Large media houses dominate ad revenue, but smaller niche outlets with dedicated audiences often struggle to monetize. Medialister bridges this gap by:
- Helping niche outlets connect with brands that align with their readership.
- Fostering sustainable, impactful partnerships for smaller publications.
The Spirit of Innovation
For me, innovation has always been about utility — finding real, practical solutions that make a difference.
I draw inspiration from the entrepreneurial spirit around me, especially in Estonia, where creativity and community are essential. PRNEWS.IO and Medialister are platforms born out of this ethos, bridging gaps in the media landscape, one story at a time.
