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PARP: up to PLN 3 million for SMEs for competitive product design
Innovations in the east of the country
Eastern Poland is a region full of opportunities, which, thanks to EU support, has a chance to become one of the driving forces of the domestic economy. The European Funds for Eastern Poland 2021-2027 (FEPW) program aims to support innovation and entrepreneurship in the following voivodeships: Lublin, Podlaskie, Podkarpackie, Świętokrzyskie and Warmińsko-Mazurskie and part of the Masovian voivodeship (excluding the Warsaw capital region). This is an ideal opportunity for local companies to develop and modernize their businesses.
· The “Automation and robotization in SMEs” action supports companies in the automation and robotization process, which aims to increase production efficiency and market competitiveness. The project result is to include the implementation of innovation in the business process (process innovation) in the enterprise. Funding can be used for a technology audit, purchase and implementation of new technologies, as well as training and consulting. Companies can count on up to PLN 3 million in funding. Applications are accepted until September 26, 2024.
· "Circular Economy in SMEs – Stage I" is an initiative that offers support for companies in developing a business model consistent with the idea of circular economy, focusing on long-term ecological and economic benefits. The elements of model development will include in particular: company audit and implementation consulting, aimed at determining possible directions of transformation of the company in the direction of circular economy and determining potential opportunities for cooperation with other companies in the above-mentioned direction. Funding of up to PLN 92,000 can be applied for until April 3, 2025.
" Circular Economy in SMEs – Stage II" is a recruitment intended for companies that have developed a circular economy business model project in Stage I, and this has been approved by PARP. Companies can obtain support for implementing a business model that minimizes waste and increases resource efficiency. Funding at this stage can amount to up to PLN 3.5 million. Applications should be submitted by December 19, 2024.
· "Sustainable urban mobility – non-competitive recruitment" is aimed at local government units aiming to develop sustainable urban transport. This is an ideal opportunity to implement projects that will improve the quality of life of residents and transform urban mobility towards a zero-emission economy. Funding can be used to purchase zero-emission vehicles, build and modernize transport infrastructure and digitize the mobility system in cities and their functional areas. Recruitment will last until December 18, 2025.
· The “Startup Platforms for New Ideas” recruitment supports young companies in incubating innovative ideas. Expert support and business experience of Startup Platforms will equip startups with profitable business models and MVP products. Each startup qualified for the program will participate in an individual incubation program tailored to its needs, and the best projects will be able to apply for PLN 600,000. Applications should be submitted to individual Platforms by June 16, 2027.
Investment in human resources
European Funds for Social Development (FERS) actively support corporate social responsibility. The program aims to stimulate the development of competences, improve the situation of people on the labor market, and increase accessibility for people with special needs.
· "Raising the competences of BUR Entities' staff" is an excellent opportunity for companies providing development services to improve the qualifications of their staff. The program focuses on the development of managerial and professional skills, which is key to future success. Recruitment for operators who will provide support to training companies is ongoing until August 9, 2024.
" Development Services 4.0 – an offer for BUR service providers" is aimed at development service providers who want to introduce modern technologies and innovations. The program supports digitalization and development of competences, which is crucial in a dynamically changing world. The program is aimed at entities with an entry in BUR. Applications can be submitted until the end of August 2026.
" HR Academy – an offer for entrepreneurs" is an action thanks to which companies can obtain funding for training and consulting to better cope with changing demographic and market conditions. It is an opportunity for SMEs to build a strong team ready for future challenges. The application process will last until the end of November 2026.
· "GOZ – it pays off – an offer for entrepreneurs" is a program promoting the ideas of the circular economy (GOZ). This is a great opportunity for companies to implement sustainable solutions that are not only beneficial to the environment, but can also bring measurable financial benefits. Recruitment for the competition will last until the end of January 2027.
The “Support for companies in temporary difficulties – an offer for entrepreneurs” program offers financial resources for companies struggling with problems, helping them maintain employment and improve their competitiveness on the market. Support is intended for entrepreneurs who have been actively running a business for at least 12 months. Even owners of sole proprietorships can apply for funding. Applications can be submitted until April 30, 2027.
The path to success
European Funds for Modern Economy (FENG) are intended for companies that want to implement innovative solutions and technologies. The program supports investments in research and development, as well as the adaptation of new technologies that can bring significant benefits to companies, increasing their competitiveness on the domestic and international market.
· "SMART Path" is an initiative supporting research, development and implementation projects that contribute to increasing the innovation and competitiveness of enterprises. Funding will only be provided to projects involving the development or implementation of an innovative solution at least on a national scale. The call for applications will last until October 24, 2024.
· "SMART Path – thematic recruitment Accessibility" focuses on innovative projects that improve the accessibility of products and services for people with special needs. This is an important initiative supporting inclusiveness in the modern economy. Applications should be submitted by 24 October 2024.
· "Brand Promotion of Innovative SMEs – EXPO 2025 Japan" is a recruitment aimed at micro, small and medium-sized enterprises that aspire to enter global markets with their product by participating in the most prestigious promotional events in Asian markets, including events accompanying the World Exhibition Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai in Japan. Applications are accepted until September 26, 2024.
· As part of "Grants for Eurogrants – an offer for entrepreneurs", entrepreneurs can obtain funding to prepare applications for funds under EU programs managed centrally by the European Commission. This is an opportunity to implement ambitious research and development projects and gain international partners. Applicants can apply for PLN 107,000. Applications are accepted until April 17, 2025.
· The “Grants for Eurogrants – an offer for research organizations” program is aimed at scientific and research institutions that will apply for Eurogrant funding under one of the EU Programs. Applications are accepted until April 24, 2025.
· "Startup Booster Poland" is a program dedicated to startups, offering support in the form of financing, mentoring and access to a network of contacts. This is a good opportunity for young companies to quickly develop and conquer the international market. As part of the initiative, you can receive up to PLN 400,000. The application must be submitted by October 31, 2026.
Economic recovery after the crisis
The National Reconstruction Plan (KPO) is a comprehensive program aimed at supporting the Polish economy in the post-pandemic period. The program includes various initiatives, from support for the health sector, through infrastructure modernization, to assistance to sectors that suffered the most during the pandemic. KPO is a chance to rebuild and strengthen the Polish economy, increasing its resilience to future challenges.
The “Investments in the implementation of environmental technologies and innovations, including those related to circular economy” program supports companies in implementing technologies and innovations related to environmental protection. Particular emphasis is placed on the circular economy, which allows companies not only to reduce costs, but also to increase sustainable development. Applicants can apply for funding of up to PLN 3.5 million until August 20, 2024.
The aim of the program "Investments in the diversification of the HoReCa sector" is to support companies from the HoReCa, tourism, and culture sectors in diversifying their activities to better adapt to changing market conditions. The program offers financial support for investments in the design and production of their goods and services, improving employee qualifications, and development services. Recruitment lasts until August 20, 2024.
All current recruitments are available on the PARP website and are constantly updated.
