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    Memorandum of Cooperation between the Union of Entrepreneurs and Employers (ZPP) and the Ukrainian Dual-Use Technologies Cluster (UADUT)

    Posted on by Maja Jankowicz

    Warsaw, October 7, 2025

    Memorandum of Cooperation between the Union of Entrepreneurs and Employers (ZPP) and the Ukrainian Dual-Use Technologies Cluster (UADUT)

    On October 7, 2025, a Memorandum of Cooperation was signed in Warsaw between the Union of Entrepreneurs and Employers (ZPP) and the Ukrainian Dual-Use Technologies Cluster (UADUT).

    The Ukrainian Dual-Use Technologies Cluster (UADUT) brings together enterprises, research institutions, and educational organizations working on the development and implementation of innovative defense technologies and their subsequent transfer to the civilian sector.

    In the face of dynamic changes in the region, cooperation in the field of dual-use technologies — encompassing both the civilian and military sectors — is gaining strategic importance for the security, innovation, and economic development of both countries. The signing of the Memorandum marks an important step in strengthening lasting economic ties between Polish and Ukrainian companies. The development of partnerships in dual-use technologies is particularly significant for enhancing regional security.

    During the ceremony, Paweł Kowal, Chairman of the Council for Cooperation with Ukraine, emphasized that we live in uncertain times marked by a technological arms race, particularly in the field of drones. Therefore, the Ukrainian Dual-Use Technologies Cluster plays a crucial role today — what you are doing is truly changing the face of the modern battlefield. Similar breakthroughs took place during the First and Second World Wars. This is precisely where business, science, and politics intersect. The Cluster focuses not only on the military but also on the civilian dimension, and true value arises when these two spheres cooperate.

    Marcin Nowacki, Vice President of the Union of Entrepreneurs and Employers, highlighted the importance of Polish-Ukrainian cooperation. ZPP has long been focused on supporting economic relations between Poland and Ukraine, but we also see tremendous potential in the field of dual-use technologies. This partnership is extremely important to us — we believe that combining the experience of Polish entrepreneurs with the innovation of Ukrainian companies will bring tangible benefits to both sides.

    Serhii Oprya, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of UADUT, presented the activities of the Cluster and expressed his pride in the signing of the Memorandum. “The Ukrainian Dual-Use Technologies Cluster is ready to open up to international cooperation, not only within Europe. Our goal is a partnership based on mutual benefit: Ukrainian dual-use technologies will be able to expand their export markets, while European partners will gain the opportunity to test solutions in real battlefield conditions. We believe that the war will soon end, and joint research and development in the field of dual-use technologies will continue and deepen. On behalf of UADUT, I declare our full readiness and openness to further cooperation” – said Serhii Oprya.

    The signing of the Memorandum paves the way for the implementation of joint projects, the exchange of experience, and the creation of synergy between Polish and Ukrainian entities, contributing to strengthening not only security but also innovation and competitiveness of both countries on the international stage.

    Webinar Summary: EUIPO Mediation at a Glance – Helping Businesses Avoid IP Litigation

    Posted on by Maja Jankowicz

    Brussels, 30 September 2025 

    Webinar Summary: EUIPO Mediation at a Glance – Helping Businesses Avoid IP Litigation

    On September 30th, 2025, the Union of Entrepreneurs and Employers, European Enterprise Alliance and European Union Intellectual Property Office hosted an online webinar titled “EUIPO Mediation at a Glance – Helping Businesses Avoid IP Litigation.” The session aimed at providing businesses with practical insights into how mediation can serve as an effective alternative to costly and time-consuming intellectual property disputes.

    The webinar was moderated by Lusyne Kesziszjan, Public Affairs Manager at the European Enterprise Alliance, and featured presentation by Plamena Georgieva, IP lawyer and Mediator at the Boards of Appeal at the EUIPO.

    Plamena Georgieva provided an overview of the EUIPO Mediation Centre, highlighting its role as one of the core tasks of the EUIPO under Article 170. With over 23,000 inter partes proceedings each year – including oppositions, cancellations, design invalidities, and appeals – mediation offers businesses a faster, cost-effective, and confidential solution compared to litigation. She presented the evolution of EUIPO mediation since November 2023, which has shown a 70% settlement rate and an 80% user satisfaction rate. Mediation services are conducted mainly in English, though 51 mediators across the EU can facilitate in a variety of languages.

    The session also compared mediation with litigation, pointing out key advantages such as flexibility, reduced costs, confidentiality, and the ability to preserve long-term business relationships. Georgieva highlighted five common reasons to choose mediation, including complex cross-border disputes, the need for enforceable outcomes, confidentiality concerns, and situations where parties maintain ongoing business ties.

    Participants also received an outline of the mediation process at the EUIPO, which includes suspension of proceedings for six months, a three-month mediation phase, and active roles for companies, lawyers, and mediators to ensure mutually beneficial outcomes. The discussion concluded by emphasizing the importance of raising awareness of mediation as a viable tool for businesses to resolve disputes efficiently while maintaining focus on growth and innovation.

    ZPP and the European Enterprise Alliance’s continued commitment to equipping European businesses with practical tools and knowledge to thrive in a complex regulatory environment is highlighted with this webinar.

    European Commission’s Strategy for Research and Technology Infrastructures

    Posted on by Maja Jankowicz

    30/09/2025

    European Commission’s Strategy for Research and Technology Infrastructures

    In its new communication “A European Strategy on Research and Technology Infrastructures”, the European Commission presents its plans for ensuring the Union can maintain its position as a global leader of innovation. This report outlines the five fields in which this work will be carried out.

    1. Increasing infrastructure capacities and mobilising investments

    To meet the continuous need for technological development and address the lack of funding that affects European innovators, the Commission proposes:

    • Developing new criteria for identifying what infrastructures are of vital importance to European innovation and for assessing their capacities.
    • Providing funding for expanding capacities, while also encouraging pooling of funds, particularly in public-private joint investments.
    • Establishing a framework for maintaining research infrastructures through the implementation of roadmaps.
    • Supporting transnational collaboration, particularly for cloud and AI

    2. Improving accessibility of infrastructures

    To ensure fairer and wider access to Europe’s advanced infrastructures, the strategy calls for:

    • Introducing an integrated “one-stop-shop” scheme that will help researchers access advanced
    • Developing pilot schemes that open advanced infrastructures for startups and
    • Providing support for transnational access

    3. Growing European talent pool

    In response to Europe’s skills shortage, the Commission proposes:

    • Creating strategies for attracting talent from outside the
    • Supporting the training of research infrastructure and technology infrastructure

    4.  Simplifying governance

    The Commission aims to clarify rules and improve coordination by:

    • Establishing a common EU-level framework for coordinating infrastructure
    • Strengthening the role of the European Strategy Forum on Research Infrastructures as a platform for engaging with relevant stakeholders.

    5. Strengthening international cooperation and resilience

    Finally, to address the changing geopolitical context, the strategy outlines:

    • Enhancing the role of pan-European research infrastructures in science
    • Facilitating the integration of candidate, potential candidate, and associated countries into the European Research Area.

    Commentary on the European Commission’s Proposal for the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework

    Posted on by Maja Jankowicz

    16.09.2025


    Commentary on the European Commission’s Proposal for the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework


    On 16 July 2025, the European Commission presented its Proposal for the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), setting a budget of EUR 1.98 trillion for the 2028–2034 period. It seeks to reshape the financial structures within the EU with the aim of accelerating and simplifying funding processes, and we as the Union of Entrepreneurs and Employers (ZPP) fully support these goals. However, we note with concern that in its current form, some of the proposed new sources of funding might negatively impact key sectors of the European economy.

    The MFF’s Composition

    The proposed 2028–2034 MFF is organised around three main pillars, each encompassing multiple policy areas and funding instruments. The first pillar, the National and Regional Partnership Plans (NRPPs), brings together fourteen sectors of funding, distributed by Member States and regions, into one unified framework. This includes cohesion policy, the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), the European Social Fund Plus, and border management. In total, the NRPPs would receive EUR 865 billion, making this the largest pillar of the MFF. Within this, EUR 453 billion is allocated to cohesion policy, with 48% of that amount dedicated specifically to less developed regions. A further EUR 296 billion would go to agricultural income support under the CAP. At least 14% of NRPP funding – excluding the CAP – is earmarked for meeting the Union’s social objectives, including employment, skills development, and poverty reduction, in line with the European Pillar of Social Rights. An additional EUR 72 billion is allocated to the EU Facility, a new programme intended to aid the implementation of these funds by providing Union-level support where applicable, such as for inter-regional projects.


    The second pillar, Competitiveness, Prosperity and Security, is allocated EUR 590 billion. Its core component is the newly established European Competitiveness Fund (ECF), which would receive EUR 451 billion to consolidate funding for sectors such as clean transition, digital innovation, health sciences, and defence. The Commission intends for this merger of funding streams to provide greater support for businesses from the research stage all the way through to manufacturing, and to create ideal conditions for scaling up further thereafter. The defence sector notably sees substantial developments: its budget will be quintupled from that of the 2021-2027 MFF to a total of EUR 131 billion, with more support being provided for frontier and dual-use technologies. This is further enforced by the Connecting Europe Facility receiving EUR 81 billion, of which 17 billion is dedicated to strengthening military mobility infrastructure across the Union. Finally, EUR 175 billion will go towards the Horizon Europe programme, which will continue supporting the EU’s capabilities for research and innovation.

    The third pillar, Global Europe, receives just over EUR 200 billion, most of which will be channelled through the Global Europe Instrument. This will fund the EU’s external action, ranging from neighbourhood and enlargement policy to humanitarian aid, international development and dedicated funding for Ukraine’s recovery and accession efforts. Notably, candidate countries will have full access to the tools within this instrument, which should provide the technical support and resources needed for making the necessary reforms to eventually be able to achieve membership. EUR 100 billion within this pillar is specifically dedicated to Ukraine’s recovery, while the rest supports broader foreign policy objectives such as humanitarian assistance, migration management, and strategic partnerships.

    Outside of the three main pillars, EUR 118 billion is allocated to administrative expenditure, which covers the functioning of EU institutions as well as technical, monitoring, and communications support for MFF delivery. Additionally, EUR 168 billion is reserved for the repayment of NextGenerationEU loans, which will begin in 2028.

    Overall, on the expenses’ side, the new MFF looks quite bold and ambitious, especially in the second pillar dedicated to competitiveness and security. ZPP particularly welcomes the proposed approach for strengthening the defence sector.

    Funding and financing

    While these streamlining efforts are primarily intended to make funding more flexible and effective from the perspective of EU institutions, they are also paired with reforms meant to make the funds more accessible and effective for the beneficiaries. The shift towards results-based financing – wherein funds are distributed incrementally as reform milestones are reached – and consolidation of reporting requirements aims to speed up the rate at which EU funds enter the economy. The harmonisation of technical rules is also meant to assist in this, as their coherence would reduce the administrative burdens faced when implementing the funding. Finally, the Commission proposes a consolidation of online portals into a “Single Gateway”, with the goal of improving beneficiaries’ access to information.

    To help finance this budget – particularly the repayments of NextGenerationEU, which will impose an annual cost of EUR 24 billion – the Commission proposes the introduction of five new Own Resources to diversify and strengthen the Union’s revenue streams. These include the following: 30% of revenues from Emissions Trading Schemes, its external equivalent in the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, a per kilogram tax on non-collected e-waste, a Corporate Resource for Europe contribution which would have large enterprises provide a direct injection into the EU budget, and finally, a Tobacco Excise Duty Own Resource (TEDOR), which would work in tandem with the soon-to-be-revised tobacco excise duty directive. These measures are intended to support the EU’s climate and public health goals, while also increasing the Union’s own resources and reducing reliance on national contributions.

    Opinion

    The ZPP recognises that the MFF Proposal includes several elements that have the potential to strengthen the EU’s key objectives. We acknowledge the importance of strong funding for revitalising the faltering European defence sector and raising its preparedness, and therefore welcome the significantly enhanced defence budget, as well as the emphasis on dual-use technologies in this sector. We are also encouraged by the cohesion policy’s targeted focus on those regions most in need, which should direct funding to where it can deliver the greatest impact. Finally, we appreciate the Commission’s continued support for Ukraine and the integration of this commitment across multiple sectors.

    However, there are some concerns regarding the overall structural direction of the Proposal. While the goals of greater flexibility and cross-sector synergy are commendable, consolidating previously independent programmes under broader umbrella frameworks might result in the undermining of sectors that require tailored approaches. It is therefore crucial to ensure that the general aim for flexibility and results-oriented financing – which we encourage – do not leave traditionally important areas and fields such as the CAP neglected. We therefore urge the Commission to engage in thorough consultations with stakeholders across the European economy in the coming years to ensure that the final MFF has a balanced and inclusive approach that reflects the interests of those most affected by it. Moreover, while we see the obvious need for providing new resources to the EU budget due to the geopolitical and economical challenges, we are not sure that all the measures proposed by the EC are sufficient and neutral for the markets. In particular, we strongly believe that TEDOR in its current structure requires more dialogue, consultations, and restructuring considering its sizable impact on the EU’s tobacco-based agriculture sector.

    See the file

    Marcin Nowacki, Vice President of the ZPP has been elected President of the EESC’s TEN Section

    Posted on by Maja Jankowicz

    Brussels, 16.07.2025

    Marcin Nowacki, Vice President of the ZPP has been elected President of the EESC’s TEN Section

    Role of the EESC

    The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) is a key advisory body within the European Union composed of three groups: Employers (Group I), Workers (Group II) and Civil Society Organisations (Group III). Its primary role is to provide informed opinions on EU policies and legislation to the European Commission, the Council of the EU and the European Parliament. In doing so, the EESC facilitates dialogue between EU institutions and organised civil society ensuring that citizens’ perspectives are reflected in decision-making.

    Regularly consulted by EU institutions, the EESC also has the authority to issue opinions independently offering balanced and representative views on economic and social matters across Europe. In 2024, the Committee achieved a significant milestone by establishing enhanced cooperation with the European Parliament enabling EESC rapporteurs to work directly with parliamentary committees.

    EESC Section TEN: Shaping Strategic Policies for Europe’s Transport, Energy and Digital Infrastructure

    Among the EESC’s six specialised sections, the Transport, Energy, Infrastructure and Information Society (TEN) section focuses on key areas essential to Europe’s growth and resilience. It provides expert advice on policies relating to transport, energy, digital infrastructure and broader technological innovation, all central to achieving the EU’s goals of sustainable development and strategic autonomy.

    Section TEN plays a vital role in shaping legislation that enhances industrial competitiveness and innovation, while contributing significantly to discussions on the EU’s 2028-2034 Multiannual Financial Framework. As Europe advances its energy and digital transitions, TEN serves as an important platform for stakeholders to collaborate and help shape the future of the European economy.

    Section TEN and Interinstitutional Collaboration

    From a business standpoint, Section TEN serves as a key platform to engage closely with important European Parliament committees, such as TRAN (Transport), ITRE (Industry, Research and Energy), IMCO (Internal Market and Consumer Protection) and REGI (Regional Development), as well as relevant departments within the European Commission, including DG MOVE, DG ENER, DG CNECT and DG GROW.

    This close cooperation helps ensure that industry views are considered early on, supporting a regulatory environment that promotes innovation, ensures energy security, improves infrastructure and boosts connectivity. For businesses, this means having a stronger voice in shaping policies that improve market access, enhance predictability, and create better conditions for growth and competitiveness across borders.

    See more: Marcin Nowacki, Vice President of the ZPP has been elected President of the EESC’s TEN Section

    Conference “Polish-Japanese Cooperation in the Reconstruction of Ukraine”

    Posted on by Maja Jankowicz

    On May 27, 2025, the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Tokyo hosted the conference “Polish-Japanese Cooperation in the Reconstruction of Ukraine,” organized as part of Poland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union. The event brought together representatives from the business sector, public administration, and international organizations from Poland, Japan, and Ukraine to discuss the potential for strategic Polish-Japanese cooperation in Ukraine’s reconstruction.

    The conference was officially opened by:

    • Tomasz Gwozdowski, Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of the Republic of Poland
    • Oleksandr Semeniuk, Charge d’affaire of Ukraine to Japan, Embassy of Ukraine to Japan
    • Michael Siebert, Managing Director for Russia, Eastern Partnership, Central Asia, Regional Cooperation and OSCE – European External Action Service
    • HIBINO Takashi, Senior Director, Office for Ukraine Crisis Response, Recovery and Reconstruction, JICA
    • Alan Beroud, UIC Chairman, CEO PKP GROUP
    • Hiroya Tanaka, Attorney, Polish Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan (PCCIJ)
    • Marcin Nowacki, Vice President, Union of Entrepreneurs and Employers (ZPP)

    The conference featured two panel discussions with leading experts:

    Panel I – Panel 1: Poland-Japan strategic partnership in the context of Ukraine reconstruction

    • Luiz Hanania, CEO, VEOLIA ENERGY POLAND
    • Koki Hino, Executive Advisor, PADECO Co., LTD
    • Shigeru Kono, Advisor for business promotion in Ukraine, JETRO

    The discussion was moderated by Michał Koczalski, CEO, CEC GROUP.

    Panel II – Financing and Investment Opportunities for Japanese and Polish Companies,” featuring:

    • Ben Akabayashi, Director General, Japan Bank for International Cooperation
    • Shogo Eguchi, Partner, Nishimura & Asahi
    • Marcin Nowacki, Vice President, ZPP

    The discussion was moderated by Fabian Elżanowski, Partner, ELŻANOWSKI & PARTNERS.

    Throughout the conference, experts and business leaders exchanged insights, discussed concrete projects, and explored potential areas of cooperation aimed at leveraging the strengths and resources of both Poland and Japan. The event marked an important milestone in strengthening economic ties between Poland and Japan, especially as Japanese companies increasingly turn their attention to the Central and Eastern European market. Poland is emerging as a key partner, offering valuable market knowledge about Ukraine and serving as a strategic partner for the implementation of joint projects using Japanese technology and capital.

    The conference was held under the honorary patronage of Paweł Kowal, Chairman of the Council for Cooperation with Ukraine.

    ? Organizers:

     Union of Entrepreneurs and Employers (ZPP)

    • Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Tokyo

    ? Partners:

    • Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)
    • Japan Business Federation (Keidanren)
    • Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO)
    • Polish Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan (PCCIJ)

    See the photo report from the event.

     

    BelTech Going Global 2.0

    Posted on by Maja Jankowicz

    18.11.2024, Warsaw

    BelTech Going Global 2.0

    The #BelTechGlobal, the largest offline conference for Belarusian technology companies abroad, was held on Saturday, November 16, at the Cambridge Innovation Center in Warsaw, Poland. The event brought together more than 300 Belarusians becoming a key platform for the revival of the Belarusian technology ecosystem, which has been fragmented due to mass migration.

    The conference was held entirely in English, with one presentation in Belarusian.

    The event was opened by Dmitry Danilchuk – head of ZPP Belarus Business Center and Kuba Binkowski – Board member and director of the Law and Legislation Department of the Union of Entrepreneurs and Employers.

    The conference included the following panels and discussions:

    1. Foster Revival and Growth: Promote the revival, formation, and establishment of a new Belarusian technological and innovation ecosystem.
    2. Strengthen Business Partnerships: Recreate and strengthen business partnerships among representatives of Belarusian tech businesses
    3. Facilitate International Integration: Support the integration of Belarusian companies into global ecosystems, helping them establish sustainable international connections.
    4. Panel discussion: IT outsourcing: transformation in times of global disruptions
    5. Panel discussion: Hardware companies: supplier management and the arrival of the AI era
    6. Panel discussion: B2B companies: navigating shaped needs of Global Belarusian IT firms
    7. Keynote speech: Building a unicorn: What successful founders do differently
    8. Keynote speech: How to sell a company with Belarusian roots: real-life cases
    9. Panel discussion: Investments during venture winter: surviving or thriving
    10. Pitch session: 7 raising Belarusian startups
    11. Panel discussion: CSR and impact tech – this discussion was attended by Agata Boutanos. Director Brussels Office Union of Entrepreneurs and Employers
    12. Speech: Belarus as a forge of high-tech businesses: Does the national high-tech sector have a future?
    13. Speech: Top – 10 Belarusian startups in 2024

    General partners of the event were SMAR Global, Melnichek Investments, FBA (Freedom Business Area), EXANTE, Partners, ALMA Agency and a partner of the event was ALMA Agency.

    _______________________

    ZPP | Belarus Business Center is a premier initiative launched by the Polish Union of Entrepreneurs and Employers (ZPP). Our project delivers comprehensive informational support, expert consultations, and legal advisory services to Belarusian companies expanding or relocating to Poland. The mission of the Business Center is to empower the Belarusian business community in Poland, throughout Europe, and on the global stage.

    A goal for a safe Europe: militarily defeat Russia and economically challenge China

    Posted on by Maja Jankowicz

    Warsaw, 29/10/2024

    A goal for a safe Europe: militarily defeat Russia and economically challenge China

    While we frequently discuss the need for economic security, European and Polish economies are increasingly infiltrated by companies that not only leverage unfair competition through subsidies and price dumping but also sometimes pose threats to the core stability of state institutions and civil liberties. We’ve known for years what needs to be done and how, yet tangible action remains scarce – as they say, “the Chinese hold on firmly,” often with the help of local lobbyists.

    Security is a term recently used in all possible contexts – mainly in relation to military matters, but it’s impossible to ignore that it’s now resonating more in economic spheres as well. In the military sense, the potential adversary is clear and well-known for centuries. In the economic realm, the landscape is still taking shape, but it’s increasingly apparent who the key opponent will be for both Poland and, more broadly, for the European Union. Whether we look at industry, pharmaceuticals, or the digital sector, the primary source of concern comes from a single country – China.

    THE CHINESE INDUSTRIAL STRATEGY

    How can Chinese electric vehicles cost just a few thousand dollars – several times less than standard EVs? The answer lies in negative margins: manufacturers directly subsidize production for the domestic market, yet they are aggressively expanding into Europe, where the costs of compliance with standards are significantly higher. As early as 2019, the Kiel Institute estimated that Chinese subsidies for industry totaled around €220 billion annually, nominally double Poland’s entire state budget planned for 2025. Today, this figure is likely even higher. The consequences are predictable – various branches of European industry, from automotive to steel and energy production (particularly renewables), are losing competitiveness against Chinese rivals.

    MEDICINE AVAILABILITY MUST NOT DEPEND ON ASIAN SUPPLIERS

    Pharmaceutical security is another area of increasing concern. Currently, 80% of active ingredients in medications consumed by Poles are produced in China. This has been recognized as a significant risk in any potential crisis, yet despite years of discussion, progress remains limited.

    The e-commerce sector provides another example, as Chinese platforms increasingly dominate the market. Unfortunately, many operate unfairly by exploiting legal loopholes that allow them to introduce products into Europe without tariffs or taxes, often bypassing regulatory and quality standards.

    THE (UN)WILLING ALLIES OF THE CHINESE COMMUNIST PARTY

    Given the importance of security in all its dimensions, why do these issues remain unresolved? Cybersecurity provides an instructive example. Work on amending the Cybersecurity Act, which would introduce essential protections for critical infrastructure against risks associated with equipment from authoritarian states, has been underway since 2020 – and remains incomplete. From the outset, the Ministry of Justice, led by Zbigniew Ziobro, for unknown reasons opposed key elements of the bill. Some major business organizations, such as the Lewiatan Confederation, Employers of Poland, and the Federation of Polish Entrepreneurs, joined the opposition, advocating for prolonged consultations and even proposing that we should stop working on the draft bill in favor of preparing a completely new one. In 2022, they openly argued that the Cybersecurity Act amendment was unnecessary at the time. Today, as we near the adoption of this critical law, similar voices are once again calling for new drafts, hearings, consultations, etc. In the last round of public consultations, the Union of Entrepreneurs and Employers was the only major cross-sector business organization explicitly calling for swift adoption of the proposed measures.

    ENSURING SECURITY – SERIOUS DECOUPLING

    Extending this approach to other areas of economic life poses significant risks to Poland’s security – especially as China, under the Communist Party, is not only an authoritarian regime that uses child labor but is also a de facto ally of Putin’s Russia. Economic threats can quickly translate into geopolitical and, ultimately, military risks. Does this mean that all EU-China cooperation is inherently problematic? Certainly not. Where fair competition exists on open market principles, business cooperation is natural. However, in areas where real security threats exist, it’s essential to enforce our regulations, pursue decoupling policies, and strengthen the competitiveness of European and Polish industries. Achieving this will be a considerable task for Prime Minister Donald Tusk and key ministers responsible for the economy and defense, including Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz.

    The article was published in Super Express on October 29, 2024.

    Signed a Memorandum of Understanding, initiating cooperation on the future of trade between the European Union and Ukraine

    Posted on by Maja Jankowicz

    Kyiv, 12 September 2024

     

    Two leading employers’ organizations from Poland and Ukraine signed a historic cooperation agreement during the „Europe-Poland-Ukraine: Cooperate Together” conference in Kyiv on September 12th. The Federation of Employers of Ukraine (FEU) and the Union of Entrepreneurs and Employers of Poland (ZPP) signed a Memorandum of Understanding, initiating cooperation on the future of trade between the European Union and Ukraine.

     

    Ruslan Illichov, General Director of the Federation of Employers of Ukraine, and Marcin Nowacki, Vice President of Poland’s Union of Entrepreneurs and Employers, have signed a document formalizing the organizations’ cooperation in the coming years. The parties publicly announced their intention to join efforts in supporting Ukraine’s accession negotiations with the European Union, especially regarding trade, and business practices and regulations harmonization.

    The European Union has formally opened long-awaited accession negotiations with Ukraine in June 2024. The end of the Autonomous Trade Measures system overlaps with the end of Poland’s upcoming presidency of the Council of the European Union. As Ukrainian and Polish businessowners and employers, we are acutely aware not only of common interests, but also of the difficulty in finding middle ground in contentious issues, the parties state in the opening remarks of the document.

    The two organizations have worked together in the past. At the end of 2023, they organized and mediated unprecedented negotiations between Polish and Ukrainian hauliers during the protest of Polish hauliers at the Ukrainian border.

    The upcoming time will be crucial for relations between Poland and Ukraine, as well as between Ukraine and the European Union. We expect the coming year to be challenging. Thanks to our organizations’ cooperation, FEU and ZPP already have experience meeting such challenges head-on. Signing the agreement cements our will to cooperate and support each other in providing the best outcome for all parties involved – said Ruslan Illichov, General Director of the Federation of Employers of Ukraine.

    Cezary Kaźmierczak, President of Poland’s Union of Entrepreneurs and Employers, remarked: Cooperation between Poland and Ukraine has the potential to change the balance of power and the shape of Europe. While our governments build the framework, businesses in both countries need to tighten their cooperation. If we communicate, cooperate, and constantly improve, we can create a peaceful and prosperous future for our people.

    The parties set out to organize a series of consultations with representatives of employers, entrepreneurs, and social partners in Poland, Ukraine, and Brussels to produce a joint White Paper before the end of 2024 defining and advocating for the common interests of Polish and Ukrainian businesses.

    The newly formalized partnership has reached out to the officials responsible for the economic development of their respective countries to offer their capabilities and experiences in any and all initiatives relating to the future of trade between the European Union and Ukraine. The copies of the Memorandum were sent to the First Vice Prime Minister of Ukraine and the Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Yulia Svyrydenko, and the Minister of Development and Technology of Poland, Krzysztof Paszyk.

     

    „Europe-Poland-Ukraine: Cooperate Together”  Conference

    Objective: to deepen Polish-Ukrainian economic cooperation in the areas of transport and logistics, trade, and infrastructure cooperation. Also, to outline Poland’s role during its presidency of the EU Council.

    The conference brings together high-ranking representatives of government, business, and the expert community from both countries to discuss the prospects for the development and consolidation of Ukraine’s and Poland’s economies. It provides an opportunity to establish B2B contacts between Polish and Ukrainian businesses.

    The event focuses on the following key topics:

    • Current state and prospects of Polish-Ukrainian cooperation: discussion of economic relations between Ukraine and the EU, as well as opportunities to deepen cooperation between Ukraine and Poland in the context of European integration.
    • Scaling up trade cooperation: consideration of opportunities for consolidating the economies of the two countries and developing trade between Ukraine and Poland, including prospects for entering new markets.
    • Infrastructure cooperation: the importance of developing transport infrastructure and transshipment terminals, which will further strengthen ties between the two countries and ensure efficient logistics.

    Organizers: Union of Entrepreneurs and Employers of Poland (ZPP)

    Co-organizers: Totalizator Sportowy Foundation, Business for Ukraine Center

     

    Poland’s Union of Entrepreneurs and Employers

    Union of Entrepreneurs and Employers (ZPP) is the fastest-growing employer organization in Poland. The organization brings together 18 regional organizations and 22 trade organizations. They gather 21,089 companies (as of 31st December 2023) with a total of 772,272 employees. As a member of the Social Dialogue Council in Poland, ZPP uses its influence to promote free market, fair competition, legal stability, and economic transparency. ZPP is represented in Brussels through its Representative Office, European Enterprise Alliance membership, and SME Connect membership. The union has two representatives in the European Economic and Social Committee.

    https://zpp.net.pl/

     

    Federation of Employers of Ukraine

    The Federation of Employers of Ukraine (FEU) is the most influential association of Ukrainian businesses. Founded in 2002, the Federation has successfully represented and protected the interests of businesses in Ukraine and internationally for 20 years.

    At present, the FEU unites more than 140 sectoral and regional organizations of employers representing the most critical sectors of the economy of Ukraine, such as machine building, metallurgy, automotive, aerospace and defense industries, agriculture, chemical industry, IT, media industry, energy, medical and microbiological industry, construction, transport and infrastructure, retail and logistics, light and food industries, tourism, utilities, services sector.

    The Federation represents over 8,000 enterprises, collectively employing nearly 3 million people and generating about 70 % of the national GDP.

    https://fru.ua/ua/

    12.09.2024_Press_release_Kyiv

    First edition of Ukrainian Tech Meeting Conference held in Google Campus Warsaw

    Posted on by Maja Jankowicz

    Warsaw, 26.06.2024

    First edition of Ukrainian Tech Meeting Conference held in Google Campus Warsaw

     

    On June 18, 2024, the Ukrainian Tech Meeting conference took place at the Google for Startups Campus in Warsaw, a hub dedicated to fostering innovation and supporting startups. This event aimed to showcase the remarkable potential of the Ukrainian tech sector, which, despite the ongoing war since 2022, has not only survived but also thrived amidst the turmoil caused by Russian military aggression.

    “Currently, we see that the global market is becoming more accessible… Before the full-scale Russian invasion, Ukrainian companies mainly focused on the local market. Now everyone understands that due to the current situation, we need to scale our operations more broadly,” stated Andrii Sukhov from Checkbox.

    The conference provided a comprehensive overview of the Ukrainian tech sector’s evolution more than two years after the war’s outbreak. Experts shared their insights on crisis management, business relocation, and new export opportunities. Additionally, the potential for collaboration in the defense-tech sector was highlighted.

    “The Totalizator Sportowy Foundation consistently implements actions for the Polish-Ukrainian community. The ongoing Ukrainian Tech Meeting event shows both us—Polish citizens, Polish entrepreneurs, and Ukrainian ones—that such initiatives are justified and underscore the importance of international cooperation,” emphasized Izabela Wyżga, President of the Foundation.

    Attendees had the opportunity to listen to keynote speeches and panel discussions featuring industry experts, tech leaders, and government representatives. These sessions provided valuable perspectives on development and investment opportunities within the tech sector.

    “Since the war escalated in February 2022, we launched the Google for Startups Ukraine Support Fund, which supported 50 startups with up to $100,000 in equity financing. We received nearly seven hundred applications. The great interest in the program led us to continue the Fund initiative and support Ukrainian startups further,” explained Michał Kramarz, Head of Google for Startups.

    Among the distinguished experts participating in the conference were:

    Alex Bornyakov, Deputy Minister of Digital Transformation of Ukraine

    Michał Kramarz, Head of Google for Startups, Central and Eastern Europe

    Przemysław Kania, General Manager of Cisco Poland

    Andriy Kolodyuk, Chairman of the Board of the Ukrainian Venture Capital and Private Equity Association (UVCA)

    Denys Gurak, Co-Founder of MITS Capital

    Oleh Piskozub, Country Director of Intellias Poland

    Denys Sychkov, Director at Horizon Capital

    During the event, it was noted that many Ukrainian IT companies have a long history of working with clients across the globe. The war introduced numerous challenges, such as the availability of infrastructure, a lack of new projects in Ukraine, and specialists being mobilized. Observing the 2022-2024 period, it is clear that these operational and communication challenges were successfully addressed by the majority of Ukrainian IT players.

    However, the global market turbulence, cost savings, and changes in the structure of demand represent more complex issues and negatively impact revenue. Adaptability, innovation, and a creative approach to marketing and sales have started to play a key role in the ability of Ukrainian IT companies to expand their business. Unfortunately, not many companies were able to cope with these challenges properly, and future business prospects are not so bright at the moment.

    One of the event’s outcomes is that partnering and cooperating for Polish and Ukrainian companies is important with for gaining further business growth.” – Oleksandr Pluzhnikov, Head of Cyber Security Office at ELEKS.

    The conference was part of the Business for Ukraine Center project, a collaboration between the Union of Entrepreneurs and Employers and the Totalizator Sportowy Foundation.

    Event partners included: Polish-Ukrainian Startup Bridge, Ukraine Invest, IT Ukraine Association, and the Coalition for Polish Innovations.

    Content partners: Google for Startups, FundingBox.

    Media partners: BiznesAlert, CyberDefence24, Diia Business Warsaw.

    The event was held under the honorary patronage of the Ministry of Development and Technology and the Mayor of Warsaw.

    More: 26.06.2024_Press_Release_UTM

     

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