Southeastern Poland Confidently Reaches for EU Funds

Grant Thornton, one of the leading audit agencies, conducted research into EU funds that flow to Poland. In particular, they were interested in what regions and cities money is allocated and what it is used for. The recently published report with the results of the study indicates which regions of Poland are most effective when it comes to reaching for the support of European institutions directed at research and development (R+D). Auditors made a finding that may seem surprising. The leader of receiving EU funds grants is the Subcarpathian (Podkarpackie) voivodship.

The audit agency focused on the funds from the Operational Programme Smart Growth directed at increasing innovativeness through research and development. The funds from the Programme go to micro, small, medium and big enterprises. So far, the EU provided funding to almost 380 projects. On average, applicants received 5.3 billion PLN. Most funds went to the Masovian voivodship (where the Polish capital Warsaw is situated). The second-biggest receiver of EU funds was the Lesser Poland voivodship, while the Subcarpathian voivodship landed in the third position on the list.

Researchers also ranked Polish based on funding per capita. Surprisingly, Subcarpathian voivodship scored the top prize leaving the rest of the pack way behind. Each inhabitant of the voivodship located in the southeast of Poland “got” 1,656 PLN, while for a person from Kuyavian-Pomeranian voivodship, ranked at no. 2, the amount was 974 PLN. Companies from the southeast turned out to be most effective when it comes to reaching for financial support.

The funds were mostly allocated to the industry sector (70.7%) and services (25.0%). 120 of the accepted projects came from big enterprises, 105 from small enterprises, and 95 and 58 from medium and micro companies respectively. The biggest amount of support, over 6.5 billion PLN, went to Polish micro companies.

Investment Outlook and Business Perspective

Poland remains one of the most attractive investment destinations in the European Union. With GDP exceeding EUR 650 billion, Poland is the sixth largest economy in the EU and the largest in Central and Eastern Europe. The country has maintained positive economic growth for over three decades, including through multiple global crises.

Foreign direct investment in Poland continues to grow, driven by the country’s strategic location, skilled workforce, EU membership, competitive costs, and improving infrastructure. Key sectors attracting investment include manufacturing, technology, business services, logistics, and financial services.

For investors considering entry into the Polish market, proper structuring of the investment vehicle is crucial. The choice between a sp. z o.o. (LLC), S.A. (joint-stock company), branch office, or joint venture depends on the investment size, sector, tax considerations, and long-term strategic objectives. Professional advisory can help optimize the structure from both operational and tax perspectives.

If you are doing business in Poland or considering entering the Polish market, Zalewski Consulting can help. Learn more about our VAT and tax advisory, or contact us for a free consultation.