New SMART Path Calls 2026 – Funding for R&D and Innovation Implementation
The updated SMART Path 2026 schedule introduces major changes to R&D and innovation implementation calls. Check timelines, eligibility and funding allocations.
Key changes to the SMART Path programme
December brought significant updates to the SMART Path (Ścieżka SMART) programme – one of Poland’s key funding instruments supporting research, development and innovation. Under the new schedule, the programme has been divided into two main types of calls:
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calls for research and development (R&D) projects,
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calls for innovation implementation, focused on the commercialisation of R&D results.
This marks a clear shift away from the previous modular project structure.
From modularity to greater project flexibility
The former modular approach has been replaced with a more flexible framework, allowing projects to include costs related to:
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internationalisation,
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intellectual property protection,
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skills and competence development.
This change enables companies to better tailor project scope to their actual business needs.
New opportunities for large companies and SMEs
One of the most important developments is the introduction of R&D calls for large enterprises acting independently. As a result, large companies are no longer required to implement R&D projects exclusively within consortia.
At the same time:
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R&D calls for consortia and standalone SMEs will remain available in 2026,
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SMEs will benefit from a dedicated call for innovation implementation.
SMART Path 2026 – application timeline
Planned calls
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R&D projects – large enterprises (standalone):
23 March – 22 May 2026
Allocation: PLN 350 million -
Innovation implementation – standalone SMEs:
April – May 2026 -
R&D projects – standalone SMEs:
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26 February – 31 March 2026 (allocation: PLN 700 million),
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October – November 2026
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R&D projects – consortia:
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9 April – 12 June 2026 (allocation: PLN 350 million),
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7 August – 16 October 2026
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Some dates and funding allocations may be уточnione in future updates to the schedule.
Support tailored to your company’s growth strategy
If your company is pursuing a different development path or requires support in selecting the most suitable funding instruments, our team is ready to help.
Contact:
Anna Derewońko or Paweł Marszaluk – we support companies throughout the entire funding lifecycle.