Poland launches PFR Deep Tech programme with PLN 600 million for advanced technology investments

The Ministry of Finance, the Polish Development Fund (PFR), and PFR Ventures have launched the PFR Deep Tech programme, aiming to support investments in advanced technologies. The programme will have a budget of PLN 600 million, with PLN 300 million provided by PFR funds and an additional PLN 300 million contributed by private and institutional investors.

The initiative will operate through a fund structure, directing capital to venture capital fund managers who will invest in high-potential technology projects. The programme is designed to foster the development of advanced technologies, including dual-use solutions with both civilian and military applications.

“In today’s geopolitical reality, defence and new technologies are key pillars of a strong state and competitive economy,” said Andrzej Domański, Minister of Finance. “PFR Deep Tech is one of the first initiatives to build a coherent ecosystem that combines public capital, private investment, and expertise to support innovation and investment.”

Jakub Jaworowski, Minister of State Assets, added: “The state should not replace market mechanisms but support forward-looking projects that are strategically important. Innovation in the dual-use sector is especially critical in the current geopolitical context.”

Piotr Matczuk, President of the Management Board of PFR SA, highlighted that the programme aligns with PFR’s mission to strengthen Poland’s long-term economic and defence resilience. “With the launch of the programme, we join global leaders in fostering the development of deep and dual-use technologies,” he said.

Aleksander Mokrzycki, Vice-President of PFR Ventures, noted that the first investment decisions are expected in the coming months. “We have strong market insight and experience in managing fund programmes, allowing us to efficiently launch operations in this strategic area,” he said.

The PFR Deep Tech programme was developed following analysis of similar initiatives in France, the UK, and the US. The Ministry of National Defence is also involved in the project, building on its existing cooperation with PFR Ventures under the NATO Innovation Fund.

The programme plans to allocate capital to 3–5 specialised venture capital funds, with the expectation that funding will ultimately support 50–80 advanced technology projects. Target sectors include artificial intelligence, defence, robotics, cybersecurity, quantum technologies, and space technologies, with a focus on projects offering dual-use potential.

“We must use every available tool to support the development of breakthrough technologies in Poland,” said Krzysztof Gawkowski, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Affairs. “I believe the launch of the PFR Deep Tech programme will provide new opportunities for Polish innovators, and I hope this is just the beginning.”