The Polish Agency for Enterprise Development(PARP) is opening another chapter in the history of the SMART Path programme, allocating PLN 700 million to support innovation in the SME sector. Although the amount is impressive, it is not the scale of the funding, but the fundamental change in the structure of the programme that attracts the attention of market analysts. In response to voices from the business community, the agency has decided to move away from complex modularity towards a transparent division of investment processes.
Strategic evolution instead of bureaucracy
So far, the SMART formula has sometimes been logistically challenging for entrepreneurs. The new edition, under the FENG 2021-2027 programme, relies on linearity: the current call focuses exclusively on the research and development (R&D) phase, while the commercialisation of results will be covered by separate competitions in the future. This strategic move allows companies to focus on the most difficult phase – the creation of new technological value – without having to immediately plan a full implementation line.
The key criterion remains to fit into the National Intelligent Specialisations. PARP is looking for projects that not only digitise processes or automate production, but bring a new quality on a national scale. Funding covers a wide range of costs: from the salaries of research staff, through equipment depreciation, to intellectual property protection and team competence development.
Entry barrier and risk premium
The programme is aimed at entities with an established technological vision. The minimum threshold for eligible expenditure is set at PLN 3 million, which, with an upper limit of PLN 50 million, clearly defines the target group as ambitious technology and manufacturing companies. The level of co-financing is flexible – the base 50% for industrial research can rise to as much as 80% once certain conditions are met, providing an important capital shield for risky experimental projects.
However, it is worth noting the strict definitions of research work. PARP clearly cuts off funding for routine IT work, such as developing simple applications or debugging. The new edition of the SMART path is a tool for those who push technological boundaries rather than replicate proven schemes.
The time to prepare documentation is short. The transfer window for applications opens on 26 February and closes as early as 31 March 2026.
