Polish Programs Offer Grants and Tax‑Advantaged Savings for Self‑Employed and Start‑Ups

The Łódź regional development agency launched a grant scheme for people who have lost or risk losing employment in the Łódź Voivodeship transformation area. Applicants can receive up to 77,000 zł, including a non‑refundable contribution of more than 53,000 zł, training, and a monthly bridge payment of 2,000 zł for up to 12 months. The call for proposals runs from 27 July to 10 August 2026 and covers 35 municipalities across the region.

Separately, the Individual Retirement Security Account (IKZE) offers self‑employed Poles a higher annual contribution limit of 16,956 zł for 2026. Contributions are tax‑deductible, and withdrawals after age 65 are taxed at a flat 10 % rate, while early withdrawals are subject to regular PIT taxation. Unused contribution limits do not carry over to the next year.