Launched in early July by the Ministry of Digital Affairs and Bank Gospodarstwa Krajowego (BGK), the “KPO: Digitalization Loan” program has attracted strong interest. Local governments, universities, and businesses can apply for financial support for investments in digital transformation, including infrastructure modernization and cybersecurity. In total, PLN 2.8 billion (€650 million) has been allocated for this purpose. Given the short application window, the two institutions are organizing regional workshops to help applicants prepare their submissions.
“Thanks to KPO funding, Poland’s digital transformation will accelerate. Cybersecurity, more artificial intelligence in companies, research and development, new digital services, and network equipment upgrades – all of this is made possible by the program we have built together with BGK to transform Poland’s economy, science, and administration,” said Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Affairs Krzysztof Gawkowski in an interview with Newseria.
Prof. Marta Postuła, First Vice President of BGK, explained that the funding pool amounts to PLN 2.8 billion, targeting several groups: local government units, natural monopolies such as energy and water utilities, universities, small and medium-sized enterprises, and other businesses.
Workshops for Applicants
In early August, workshops were held in Bydgoszcz for organizations interested in applying. Participants learned about eligibility rules, qualifying projects, financing conditions, and potential investment directions. The Kujawsko-Pomorskie region is one of several voivodeships where further information sessions will be organized.
“Workshops are essential because the scope of digitalization funding is very broad – from equipment replacement to cybersecurity and cloud services. Such meetings allow potential beneficiaries to ask questions, better prepare applications, and obtain funds more efficiently,” said Prof. Postuła.
The program, which launched on July 9, will continue until funds are exhausted but no later than August 31, 2026.
Scope of the Program
The KPO instrument covers three main areas of support:
- Smart energy networks for businesses and the public sector (up to 75% of program funds),
- Advanced digital technologies (e.g., process automation, cybersecurity),
- ICT infrastructure development (e.g., data centers, networks).
Loans start from PLN 5 million, with repayment periods ranging from 8 to 20 years, depending on the type of entity and type of aid. For municipalities and universities, loans are interest-free (unless linked to de minimis aid). For enterprises under de minimis aid and natural monopolies, the interest rate is 0.5%.
“We encourage applications. Submit the request, classify expenses, undergo credit assessment, and then sign the agreement,” explained Prof. Postuła.
“I am particularly pleased that funds will go to small businesses and municipal institutions that know how to access support and have real needs. BGK financing will help modernize and improve their operations,” added Piotr Hemmerling, First Deputy Voivode of Kujawsko-Pomorskie.
Boosting Innovation and Competitiveness
The Ministry of Digital Affairs stresses that funding from the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (KPO) will strengthen Poland’s economic innovation, boost competitiveness on international markets, and enhance security and resilience.
“Poland’s digital transformation has accelerated significantly over the past 18 months. Companies are benefiting from new programs like the Artificial Intelligence Fund, more resources are directed toward cybersecurity and digital services, legislation is evolving, and startups are thriving. In short, I would say that Poland has advanced to Europe’s top league in terms of digital transformation,” said Minister Gawkowski.
