Poland's PARP launches €50 million design grant for Eastern women‑led SMEs and €17.6 million startup boost abroad

Polska Agencja Rozwoju Przedsiębiorczości (PARP) opened applications for the "Wzornictwo w MŚP" programme, allocating 50 million zł to support micro, small and medium enterprises in Poland’s eastern regions where women hold key ownership or managerial roles. Eligible firms can receive up to 3 million zł, covering up to 85 % of qualifying costs for design audits, strategy development, equipment, software, patents and training. Applications are accepted until 20 May 2026.

Separately, PARP announced the results of the "Startup Booster Poland – Startups Exchange" call, directing nearly 17.6 million zł of EU funds to Polish tech startups seeking international expansion. Two operators were selected: the Foundation for Technological Entrepreneurship (StartSmart CEE) to facilitate entry into the US, Germany and Sweden, and the Adam Mickiewicz University Foundation (ScaleUp Connect) for markets in Spain and Estonia. The allocation sparked debate over the role of the Polish Investment and Trade Agency (PAIH), a public body competing with private operators for the same funding.

Both programmes aim to strengthen Polish innovation capacity, enhance competitiveness abroad and promote the strategic use of design and technology in growth-oriented firms.