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Manufacturing in Poland: Why Innovation and ESG Are Key to Competing in Nordic Market

Fredrik Udd

Managing Partner, International Growth Expert

Published: 28 Feb 2025
Blog Header: Manufacturing in Poland Why Innovation and ESG Matter

Manufacturing companies in Poland, especially in the metal and electronics industries, are increasingly looking to expand into international markets. However, success in Nordic markets requires meeting high standards—not only in terms of quality but also in innovation and sustainability.

Why should manufacturing companies in Poland invest in innovation and sustainability?

Countries like Sweden, Denmark, Norway, and Finland place great emphasis on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and eco-friendly business practices. Investing in modern technologies and sustainable solutions is not just a response to global trends but a key factor in building a competitive advantage in these markets.

The Current State of Sustainability Adoption in Polish Companies

According to research conducted by the Polish Economic Institute (PIE):

  • 78% of large companies and 64% of medium-sized enterprises are aware of the SDGs,
  • However, only 64% of large and 7% of medium-sized companies take concrete actions to implement them.

The most frequently pursued goal is improving employee health and well-being (a priority for 65% of surveyed companies). In contrast, innovation and economic growth (SDG 9) are perceived as the least important, suggesting that Polish businesses do not yet recognize innovation as a crucial part of business strategy.

Funding Programs for Manufacturing Companies – What’s Available?

To enhance innovation and sustainability, companies can take advantage of various funding programs that provide:

Grants for research and development of new technologies,
Support for building manufacturing facilities,
Financing for energy-efficient investments,
Non-repayable grants for hiring specialists.

1. SMART Program – Innovation and R&D Funding

The SMART program is Poland’s largest national fund supporting technology development and research. More than 1,000 projects are submitted in each edition.

💰 Total budget for 2025: 3 billion PLN
📌 Maximum funding per project: 50 million PLN
📌 Minimum project value: 3 million PLN
📌 Funding levels:

  • Research and development projects: up to 80% of eligible costs
  • Innovation implementation: from 0% to 70%, depending on the region in Poland
    📅 Application deadline: May–June 2025

Examples of eligible investments:
✔️ Development of new products and technologies
✔️ Expansion of R&D laboratories
✔️ Purchase of advanced machinery for innovation implementation

2. Green Credit – Funding for Energy Efficiency

This is a support program provided by the Polish National Development Bank (BGK) for companies aiming to reduce energy consumption and implement eco-friendly solutions.

💰 Maximum funding: 50 million EUR
📌 Minimum project value: 2 million PLN
📌 Maximum funding level: up to 80%
📌 Eligibility requirement: at least a 30% reduction in energy consumption
📅 Application deadline: June–July 2025

Examples of eligible investments:
✔️ Replacing machinery with energy-efficient alternatives
✔️ Thermal modernization of manufacturing facilities
✔️ Upgrading heating systems for better efficiency

3. Regional Support Programs for SMEs

Several regional funding programs provide support for modernization and business growth, such as the Mezoinvestment SME program in the Silesian region.

💰 Maximum funding: 5 million PLN
📌 Minimum project value: 2 million PLN
📌 Maximum funding level: up to 60%
📅 Application deadline: March–June 2025

Examples of eligible investments:
✔️ Purchase of modern machinery and equipment
✔️ Expansion and modernization of production facilities
✔️ Process optimization for increased efficiency

Why manufacturing companies in Poland should invest in Innovation and ESG?

Sustainability is a key factor for success in international markets, especially in the Nordics.
Companies investing in innovation have a greater chance of securing new contracts and improving competitiveness.
Available funding programs allow businesses to implement new technologies without large upfront investments.

Don’t wait—explore the best funding opportunities for your company today!

Interested in obtaining a grant?

Together with our partner specializing in funding for growth, investments, and R&D projects, we can help companies secure and manage public grants effectively.

✅ Non-repayable grants for specialist salaries
✅ Support for investment and facility expansion
✅ Funding for the implementation of innovative technologies

Contact us and find out what funding opportunities are available for your business!

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