Public funding for Polish industry targets clean technology, digital solutions and advanced manufacturing
Financing the European Industrial Renaissance: Poland's industrial strength reignites
Poland is at a pivotal moment in its industrial and economic transformation. With a dual focus on modernising traditional industries and attracting foreign investment, the government is taking bold steps to position Poland as a leader in Europe's green and digital transition. By fostering innovation in clean technology, digital solutions, and advanced manufacturing, Poland offers unparalleled opportunities for businesses ready to adapt and thrive.
While the national strategy for digital transformation continues to evolve, sectoral strategies provide a roadmap for aligning with EU climate goals. This positions Poland as a dynamic and competitive hub for industries shaping the future of Europe's economy.
Supporting existing businesses: accelerating decarbonisation
1. Manufacturing of strategic clean tech for decarbonisation, focusing on investments in cleantech as a strategic sector.
Poland has launched a €1.2 billion programme, partly financed by the Modernisation Fund and the Recovery and Resilience Facility, to support investments in clean technology manufacturing. These programmes also include subsidies for installing heat pumps, grants for solar and wind energy projects, and investments in electrification technologies such as hydrogen.
2. Targeting energy-intensive industries via NFOŚiGW, focusing on decarbonising energy-intensive industries and combating carbon leakage risks.
The National Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management (NFOŚiGW) has outlined and approved its strategic plans for 2025–2028, focusing heavily on driving energy transformation. Approximately 80% of its annual budget—€3 billion (13 billion PLN)—is allocated to the heating sector.
The fund plans to simplify application processes and shift its focus from grants to loans to stimulate private investment and ensure sustainable funding. Key priorities include reducing emissions in energy-intensive industries such as steel, transport, and cement, while advancing hydrogen and battery technologies. Investments in renewable energy sources and modernising electricity grids are also critical steps towards achieving climate neutrality.
These initiatives underscore Poland's commitment to reducing carbon emissions, supporting businesses in transitioning to a low-carbon economy, and promoting sustainable industrial growth in line with EU climate goals.
Attracting new businesses: a hub for investment
Poland has allocated approximately €96 million through the Important Projects of Common European Interest Fund to strengthen digital transformation and innovation ecosystems. The country has already participated in several IPCEIs, including batteries, microelectronics, hydrogen, and cloud technologies. Future projects will target artificial intelligence, advanced packaging for semiconductors, edge cloud continuum, and circular materials.
2. Using public funding strategically
Poland uses EU-approved instruments such as grants and loans through more than 22 Operational Programmes to support decarbonisation and digital technology investments. These programmes are managed at both national and regional levels.
Additionally, the Programme for Supporting Investments of Significant Importance to the Polish Economy (2011–2030) has dedicated over €500 million (2.6 billion PLN) to subsidising significant investments.
3. Tax and investment incentives
Income tax exemptions are available through Poland's Investment Zone and Special Economic Zones. The Katowice Special Economic Zone (KSSE) is one of the largest and most dynamic zones, spanning multiple voivodeships, and provides benefits such as tax relief, access to skilled workforces, and developed infrastructure. Companies such as Stellantis, Nexteer, and Guardian Glass have invested here, reinforcing its reputation as an industrial hub.
Industrial and technology parks, such as the Krakow Technology Park (KPT), foster collaboration between businesses and research institutions, supporting innovation and entrepreneurship. KPT is a prime example of a business hub driving economic and technological advancements in the Małopolska region.
Property tax exemptions are also available in municipalities, providing additional incentives to entrepreneurs.
Poland: a high-profile opportunity
Poland's ambition to become a global tech hub was highlighted by its efforts to attract Intel, supported by €1.9 billion in EU-approved state aid. While the project was ultimately withdrawn due to Intel's financial challenges, the government's robust incentive programme remains in place, offering significant opportunities for other businesses to make Poland a cornerstone of their growth strategies.
The industrial renaissance underway in Poland represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity for businesses to innovate, scale, and contribute to Europe's broader industrial revival. By aligning with Poland's strategic goals, companies can access funding, strengthen their market position, and drive sustainable growth.
Get in touch to explore how we can help you access funding, navigate regulatory challenges, and build a future-ready strategy for success.
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