Submit a complete grant application for businesses and receive PARP funding

Key information:

• The business financing ecosystem in 2026 will focus on precise instruments supporting innovation, digitalization, and green transformation.
• The SMART 2026 path is PARP's flagship program with a budget of PLN 350 million for R&D and implementation projects.
• The new SMART Pathway rules introduce separate calls for R&D and implementation projects and eliminate the modularity requirement.
• Design for SMEs from Eastern Poland offers up to PLN 3 million for audits and implementation of innovative products.
• The FENG program allows you to obtain preferential loans for production automation up to PLN 15 million.
• Investments in digitalization under the Dig.IT program are supported by grants of up to PLN 850,000.
• The „Promotion of Innovative SMEs” program has a budget of PLN 100 million to support the international expansion of companies.
• Business transformation loans allow financing digital and green development with amounts up to PLN 15 million.
• The Development Services Database (BUR) enables co-financing of employee training through voucher or reimbursement systems.
• Grants from the KPO for the HoReCa sector provide up to PLN 540,000 in support with a 10% own contribution.
• Success in the application process depends on the quality of the business plan and the precision in preparing the technical documentation.

Details below!

Types of subsidies and grants

The modern business financing ecosystem in 2026 has evolved towards precise instrumentssupporting specific strategic objectives, moving away from general grants towards targeted development investments. The main axis of support remains grants for innovation and research and development (R&D) activities, which allow companies to safely finance the entire creative process, from the conceptual phase and prototype testing to the commercial implementation of innovative products on the market.

In parallel, the EU funds market offers broad support in the area of digital and green transformation, where funds are directed towards implementing advanced IT solutions, process automation, and energy optimization in line with ESG requirements. The offer is complemented by grants for internationalization, facilitating foreign expansion, and competency subsidies for employee training, which combined with preferential return instruments creates a complete toolkit for building a sustainable competitive advantage. The choice of the appropriate type of financing today depends not on the size of the company, but on the dynamics of its vision and its readiness for deep structural modernization.

What PARP funding will be available for companies in 2026

The Polish Agency for Enterprise Development (PARP) will remain the main operator of aid funds in 2026, offering entrepreneurs a range of precisely targeted financial tools.

The flagship instrument, synonymous with a modern approach to financing innovation, consistently remains the SMART Path.. In the current edition, this program places even greater emphasis on rigorous planning of research and implementation modules, being dedicated to entities with a high degree of business maturity, ready to undertake projects with significant market impact.

The year 2026 is also a key moment for the HoReCa sector, for which KPO subsidies represent a real opportunity to build operational resilience and long-term development. Simultaneously, the agency is intensively promoting dedicated programs, such as DigIT, aimed at purchasing and implementing ready-made IT technologies, or funds supporting the automation and robotization of industrial processes. Entrepreneurs operating in the eastern regions of Poland can also apply for specialized design grants, which combine a comprehensive design audit with specific investments in machinery.

SMART Pathway 2026 – new rules for research and development projects

The SMART 2026 pathway brings some of the biggest changes to how funding is applied for innovations. The new rules aim to simplify the process and shift the burden of evaluation from formalities to the actual value of the project. The most important changes include:

• Giving up modularity The project must include R&D work, while additional elements (internationalization, competence development) are optional; cost categories are used instead of modules.
• Separation of recruitments – research and development projects and implementation projects are assessed separately; both stages cannot be combined in a single application.
• Simplified evaluation system – Some binary criteria have been replaced with scores, the expert panel's time has been extended, and the possibility of improving the application three times has been introduced.
• Dual-use projects - Projects with civil and military applications were allowed (IT, autonomous systems, energy, advanced materials).

Financing conditions and deadlines

Large enterprises can participate in the competition, both independently and in mandatory cooperation with SMEs. The project must fit into the National Smart Specializations and demonstrate a real implementation potential. Key financial parameters:

• Contest budget: 350 million PLN
• Maximum funding: 70 million PLN for the project
• Support Level: do 65% qualified costs
• Eligible costs: R&D team salaries, materials and services, equipment depreciation, and in implementation projects, also machinery, production lines, construction works, and real estate

Recruitment is open from March 23 to May 22, 2026 (until 4:00 PM). Exceeding the deadline will result in the automatic rejection of the application, so preparations should begin as early as possible.

Would you like to know more?

Check the full article concerning this funding. A well-prepared budget is one of the key elements of success; it is worth basing it on reliable data, which will increase the project's credibility and improve its chances of a positive evaluation and acceptance.

Grants for Design and Product Implementation for SMEs from Eastern Poland 2026

The „Design for SMEs from Eastern Poland 2026" program is a form of financial support for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises run or co-managed by women from the following voivodeships: Lublin, Subcarpathian, Podlaskie, Świętokrzyskie, Warmian-Masurian, and Mazovian (excluding the Warsaw Capital Region). The program's goal is improving company competitiveness through the implementation of professional design and innovative product solutions. The project must take into account eco-design principles, and the design strategy is a mandatory attachment to the application. The most important categories of eligible costs:

• Design Audit and Strategy – Costs of consulting services related to the development and implementation of a design strategy
• Fixed assets – purchase of machinery and equipment (excluding real estate)
• Software and Intellectual Property Rights – patents, licenses, know-how
• Construction work – solely related to machine installation, up to 10% of fixed assets value
• Training – costs of training services supporting implementation

Financing conditions and deadlines

Project evaluation is based on a point system, with a maximum of 27 points achievable, and a minimum of 13 points required for project selection. Key financial parameters:

• Contest budget: 50 million PLN
• Maximum funding: 3,000,000 PLN
• Minimum eligible costs: 200,000 PLN
• Project completion date no later than December 31, 2027

Applications are open from February 19 to May 20, 2026 (until 4:00 PM). Applications are submitted electronically through the PARP system. The project cannot start before the day after the application is submitted.

Would you like to know more?

If the topic interests you, Check out the full article, you will find more details about this subsidy there. Remember that a well-prepared design strategy is not only a formal requirement but also a real opportunity for the thoughtful development of the product and the entire company.

Production process automation, i.e. FENG financing

Companies that invest in modern production technologies today set the standards for the entire industry tomorrow. Faster production lines and lower operating costs allow for building competitive advantage, which can be strengthened today with the support of the program European Funds for a Modern Economy (FENG). As one
from the largest EU programs implemented in the perspective 2021-2027, is directed straight to SME sector. It includes a variety of financial instruments: from grants to preferential loans and guarantee instruments, tailored to different stages of company development and the scale of planned investments.

Who is eligible for FENG funding?

From the FENG program funds can benefit not only businesses. Support is also aimed at the science sector, consortia (including entrepreneurs cooperating with research organizations), non-governmental organizations, and business environment institutions, including entrepreneurship centers, innovation centers, and startups.

What fund is allocated for financing production automation?

The main instrument within FENG is SMART Pathway, which implements the program's first priority: support for businesses. Starting in 2026, formal matters related to SMART Pathway funding will be simplified by dividing them into two areas: R&D work and the implementation of R&D work for SMEs. For large companies, the R&D module will always remain mandatory.

Within the program, loans are available in amounts from 2.5 million PLN to 15 million PLN, granted for a period of 15 years at a preferential interest rate of 0.5% per year. Meeting specific requirements for the implementation of circular economy principles (CE), the execution of a digitalization component, or the localization of an investment supporting the local economy opens the door to cancellation even 15% loan principal.

Would you like to know more?

If the topic interests you, Check out the full article, you will find more details about this subsidy there. The biggest challenge with the application is usually preparing coherent project documentation, including a business plan and a description of the modules, which will convince the financing institution of the validity and innovativeness of the planned activities. It is worth approaching this with your head, as a well-described project means realistically greater chances of receiving funding.

Digital transformation of companies and DigIT grants for new technologies

Digital transformation, which a few years ago was considered a long-term strategy element, currently constitutes condition for survival in the market. Still in 2020 considered it too high a priority 38% company. W 2024 that percentage was already 84%. Just as the internet or ERP systems once did, artificial intelligence is now marking a new stage in business's digital evolution. 2025 uses it only 8,7% Polish companies, which means this revolution is just gaining momentum. This process is expected to be further accelerated by the grant program Dig.IT, offering funding up to 850,000 Polish złoty for companies planning to implement new technologies.

What are the benefits of company digitalization?

The digitization process includes the implementation of technologies such as ERP systems for enterprise resource management, CRM platforms for customer service, cloud solutions, process automation, or artificial intelligence. The benefits of these solutions are measurable and encompass many areas of business simultaneously.

What areas of digital transformation are currently a priority?

Businesses wanting to respond to Key directions of digitalization must consider Four pillars of modern business: cloud, artificial intelligence, automation, and cybersecurity. Up to 87% firms plan to increase spending on cloud services within the next 12 months. Entrepreneurs are deciding to change their cloud infrastructure mainly due to cost optimization, artificial intelligence integration, and security issues.

In the context of cybersecurity, two EU legal regulations play a significant role: NIS2 and DORA. NIS2 imposes cybersecurity requirements on a wide range of economic sectors, including energy, transport, and healthcare. DORA goes a step further in the financial sector, requiring banks and financial institutions to test the resilience of IT systems, manage risks associated with technology providers, and report significant digital incidents.

Support in digital transformation through the Dig.IT grant

Entrepreneurs in the industrial processing and manufacturing services sector can benefit from a grant program Dig.IT, implemented by the Industrial Development Agency under European Funds for a Modern Economy (WIND). Assistance will be provided to at least 400 firm. Importantly, obtaining a grant does not require proving the high innovativeness of the implemented solution or previous actions in this direction. However, it is necessary to indicate the project's impact on increasing the level of digitalization in the company and the actual implementation of the planned solutions.

Would you like to know more?

Want to learn more? If you're interested in the topic, Check out the full article, you will find more details about this subsidy there. The biggest challenge when applying is usually preparing coherent documentation, including a business plan that convincingly justifies the project's impact on the company's digitalization. It's worth approaching this strategically; a well-described project means a realistically greater chance of receiving the grant.

Brand Promotion 2026 - How to Get Funding for International Expansion

Are you looking to enter foreign markets, but the costs of international promotion seem like an insurmountable barrier? The „Promotion of Innovative SMEs” Brands" program implemented by PARP can help. This support is aimed at micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises that have a finished product., clearly defined brand I have real export ambitions. The program's budget is PLN 100 million, and its biggest advantage is the lack of a mandated minimum and maximum project value. The scope of activities can be adapted to your own capabilities. What can be financed:

• Trade fairs and exhibitions - participation as an exhibitor, stand rental and construction, space reservation
• Trade missions and B2B meetings – trips to international industry events
• Promotional campaigns – marketing activities aimed at foreign markets
• Shows and presentations – organizing tastings, product demonstrations
• Business travel – employee travel expenses
• Indirect costs – do 7% direct costs

Financing conditions and deadlines

The program offers attractive financial conditions: a higher level of support covers travel expenses, and a lower level covers other expenses. Key parameters:

• Program budget 100 million PLN
• Reimbursement for business travel: do 85%
• Funding for remaining costs: do 50%
• Project value limit brake

The program is available to SMEs from selected sectors, including IT, pharmaceuticals, furniture, cosmetics, automotive, food sector, green technologies, and many others. Applications are submitted exclusively electronically through the LSI PARP system.

Would you like to know more?

If the topic interests you, Check out the full article, you will find more details about this subsidy there. The biggest challenge with the application is usually preparing consistent documentation, including an export strategy. It's worth approaching this thoughtfully; a well-described project means a realistically greater chance of receiving the grant.

Loans for the digital and green transformation of businesses

Are you looking to invest in new technologies or modernize your company with environmental considerations in mind, but lack the capital? This program might be perfect for you. Loans for digital and green transformation This is support for companies from all over Poland that want to develop modernly, whether through automation and digitization, through limiting the consumption of energy and raw materials. Importantly, both approaches can be combined in a single project. What specifically can the funds be used for:

• Digitalization – implementation of digital systems and tools, process automation
• Production modernization – improving operations and increasing efficiency
• Green transformation – limiting energy and raw material consumption, circular economy
• Sustainable business models – implementation of environmentally friendly solutions

Financing conditions and deadlines

This is not a grant, but a loan, and on very attractive terms. Key parameters:

• Loan amount: from 2,500,000 PLN to 15,000,000 PLN
• Interest rate: just 0.5% on an annual basis
• Repayment period: 15 years old
• Capital repayment grace period 24 months
• For whom: SMEs from all over Poland

Loans will be granted by financial institutions selected by PARP. Applications are planned to be submitted from Third quarter of 2026 through the end of 2028, the process of selecting financing partners will commence on March 31, 2026.

Would you like to know more?

If the topic interests you, Check out the full article, you will find more details about this program there. It's worth starting to think about the project now; the success of the application is primarily decided by the quality of the prepared documentation and the coherence of the investment with the company's development plan.

Development services database employee training subsidies

What is the Development Services Database and how does the system work

The Development Services Database is a free online platform run by Polish Agency for Enterprise Development (PARP). It functions as a virtual marketplace connecting entrepreneurs with certified training providers, postgraduate studies, and consulting services. Entities enlisted in the database undergo detailed qualitative verification, which ensures that The investment targets services with a proven track record, eliminating the risk of misspent funds..

The entire subsidy system is based on the so-called demand-driven approach. This means that funds are not allocated top-down to educational companies. It The entrepreneur independently diagnoses competency gaps in the team. and chooses the optimal offer. The financing process is handled by regional operators (e.g., local development agencies), and support is usually provided in one of two models:

• Bonus system
• Reimbursement system

Who can apply for support, for what, and how much?

Funding under the BUR can be used primarily by micro, small and medium-sized enterprises and their employees. The funds can be used for specialized courses, postgraduate studies, and consulting services.

The basic funding level is usually 50% of net costs (VAT is most often an ineligible cost). However, the system foresees preferential criteria that allow for an increase in this support up to 100%. Higher rates are most often due to:

• Having micro or small enterprise status.
• Referral for training for employees over 50 years of age or those with low qualifications.
• Conducting business in industries key to the region (so-called smart specializations).

Step-by-step procedure for obtaining funds

The process of applying for BUR funds requires administrative discipline, and formal errors are the most common reason for rejection of applications. To avoid this, you need to go through five key stages:

1. Needs analysis
2. Service Selection
3. Filing an application
4. Signing the contract
5. Execution and settlement

Most common mistakes in the financing process

Even with a well-planned training budget Entrepreneurs face difficulties related to administrative details, which in extreme cases result in the need to return received funds.. The most common formal errors made by applicants include:

• Incorrect SME status verification
• Implementation foul
• Exceeding de minimis aid limits
• Lack of evaluation

Would you like to know more?

Want to learn more? If you're interested in the topic, Check out the full article, you will find more details about this subsidy there. The biggest challenge with the application is usually to flawlessly navigate the formal process, including properly documenting training needs and adhering to the sequence of steps imposed by the operator. It's worth approaching this strategically; a well-prepared application significantly increases your chances of receiving support.

KPO Grants for HoReCa - Last Chance for Investments

Investment A1.2.1 from the National Reconstruction Plan is mechanism targeted at industries most severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. EU funds are not meant to patch existing budget deficits, but rather to stimulate the transformation and diversification of services. The program is based on three assumptions:

• Increase immunity
• Green transformation
• Digitalization of processes

Who can benefit from the subsidy?

The program conditions are precisely defined and constitute the first formally verified filter for applicant entities. To apply for a grant, a company must prove that it has actually felt the effects of economic turmoil, while simultaneously possessing the potential for modernization. Support is available to entities that meet all three conditions:

• SME Status
• Downturn in turnover
• Applicable PKD codes

What investments can be financed?

The support mechanism under the KPO was constructed in a modular fashion. An effectively planned project cannot rely solely on simple purchases, but should combine hard investments with the development of personnel expertise and expert planning. Each endeavor must maintain specific proportions of eligible expenditures, encompassing three main components:

• Investment component (min. 70% costs)
• Training component (max. 30% costs)
• Advisory Component (max. 30% costs)

How much can you get and under what conditions?

• Support height: the maximum value of non-repayable co-financing is 540,000 PLN.
• Grant intensity: program coverage 90% net costs investments, meaning the entrepreneur only has to contribute 10% down payment. This is a rarely encountered level of co-financing in EU funds.
• Limit of de minimis aid: support is subject to de minimis aid regulations. The entrepreneur must verify whether in the last three years has not exhausted the limit of 300,000 euros.
• Billing system The dominant model is reimbursement. The company first pays invoices from its own funds or bridge credit, and after the operator approves the documents, it receives reimbursement for the incurred costs.

Would you like to know more?

Want to learn more? If you're interested in the topic, Check out the full article, you will find more details about this subsidy there. The biggest challenge with the application is usually preparing coherent documentation, including a business plan that precisely describes the planned diversification of activities and its impact on the company's resilience. It's worth approaching this thoughtfully; a well-described project means a realistically greater chance of receiving a grant.

How to prepare a funding application step by step?

Choosing the right subsidy is just the beginning of the journey. In 2026, with immense competition for funds from FENG or KPO, Your success is primarily determined by the quality of the substantive documentation. Once you have selected a specific recruitment, the most important step is to prepare a professional business plan and a feasibility study. These documents must prove the innovativeness of your idea and its financial stability in a way that leaves PARP experts with no doubts. Every market indicator and analysis must be supported by reliable data for your project to withstand rigorous scrutiny.

Independently creating advanced analyses can be risky, as decisions on multi-million dollar support often hinge on details in the technological description or precision in the financial spreadsheet. If you already know which funds you want to pursue but need professional support in preparing the substantive part of your application, it's worth relying on proven solutions. At ConQuest Consulting, we create strategic documents that genuinely increase your score and allow you to focus on business development while we take care of the formal foundation of your success.

Do you need a business plan or market analysis for a specific grant? Sign up for a free consultation, and we'll help you prepare the documentation to effectively pave the way for your investment.