Spring brings not only economic revival but also a concrete financial offer for entrepreneurs. The National Centre for Research and Development (NCBR) is launching new competitions with hundreds of millions of zlotys available as grants for research, development, and future technologies. The list includes well-known programs such as the SMART Pathway, as well as new initiatives supporting deep tech and digitalization under the European STEP platform.
This is the moment for companies to not only accelerate innovation development but also build competitive advantage—provided they have a ready idea and successfully navigate the application process.
SMART Returns with Big Funding
The largest pool—350 million zlotys each—will go to companies through two SMART Pathway competitions. This is the flagship instrument supporting research and development projects. Grants can fund new investments.
The first competition—SMART Pathway for large enterprises—has an open call from March 23, 2026, to May 22, 2026.
It is aimed at companies that want to develop new products or improve business processes based on R&D work. The only condition is that the project must realistically lead to innovation.
The program offers more than just research funding. Companies can supplement the project with activities related to foreign expansion, industrial property protection, or team competence development. Large enterprises must additionally include cooperation with the SME sector.
The second competition—SMART Pathway for projects implemented in consortia—starts on April 9, 2026. Here, the stakes include not only funding but also partnerships. Projects must be carried out jointly—for example, with other companies, scientific units, or research organizations. Each partner must contribute real value to the research and development component.
Future Technologies in Focus
April also marks the start of calls under the STEP program, which focuses on technologies critical for Europe.
Path A: Digital technologies and innovations in deep technologies (call from April 14, 2026, to June 17, 2026) will support projects developing breakthrough digital solutions and deep tech—those that can truly change the market and strengthen the European economy’s position.
Path B: Digital technologies and innovations in deep technologies (starts April 21, ends June 26, 2026) responds to the growing need for EU technological independence. Projects that reduce strategic dependencies and strengthen key supply chains will be prioritized.
In both cases, the budget is around 150 million zlotys per competition. Funding covers only R&D work, while implementation of results remains the responsibility of the entrepreneurs.
International Cooperation Also in Play
Companies and research units open to foreign cooperation have the M-ERA.NET 4 competition. This initiative brings together partners from 34 countries and focuses on modern materials technologies.
The budget is 2.5 million euros, with the call open until May 12, 2026. Projects are expected to bridge science and business and address specific industry needs—from new materials to innovative production processes.
First Come, Best Served
The new competitions are not only about money but also a clear signal: innovation and technology remain at the center of development policy. For companies from Radom and the region, this is a great opportunity to accelerate investments, join R&D projects, or establish strategic partnerships.
It is worth acting quickly—well-prepared projects have the greatest chance of success, and competition for the funds, as always, will be fierce.