“Start-ups – the Notion and Implementation Issues” were the leitmotif for the meeting held on 1 and 2 March . On day one, Start-up Officer Janusz Dramski discussed the programme of supporting start-ups in the medical industry. On Day Two, the focus shifted to the Katowice Special Economic Zone in Zabrze, its offer presented by Marcin Bania – Chief Specialist in the Investors Office.

The meeting was combined with a study visit. Network members visited i.a. the Guido Coal Mine, Zabrze Arena, and Special Economic Zone, including the Weber company.

The Network visit to Zabrze was preceded with an online meeting on 1 February 2023. Online meeting participants discussed initiatives regarding support for start-ups in Zabrze (presented by Marcin Bania), and the start-up assistance programme in Jasło (presented by Department of Entrepreneurship Assistance manager Sabina Kmiecik). Aldo Vargas Tetmajer followed with a talk about the URBACT programme offer targeting municipalities.

The meeting closed with a debate moderated by Association of Polish Cities advisors, with a focus on challenges associated with start-up assistance, and special economic zones.