Start-up loans in 2025 – new funding opportunities for budding entrepreneurs

Starting a business in 2025 presents entrepreneurs with challenges relating to securing appropriate funding. In a rapidly changing legal and economic environment, lending options and public support are evolving to meet the needs of start-ups and businesses.

The ‘First Business: Start-up Support’ 2025 programme – a quasi-grant for new businesses

The ‘First Business – Start-up Support’ programme is a key financial support tool for those planning to set up a business. In 2025, a significant amendment was introduced, transforming the loan into a non-repayable quasi-grant, provided that specific criteria for remission are met. The programme’s beneficiaries are primarily the unemployed, final-year students who are not in employment, carers of people with disabilities, and jobseekers; for the first time, the programme has also been extended to include those in employment whose average monthly income does not exceed the average wage in the economy.

The loan amount can be up to twenty times the average wage, which currently means it is possible to receive support of approximately 179,000 PLN. Up to half of the loan amount may be written off, though not more than six times the average wage. The condition for remission is that the business must have been operating for a specified minimum period and must continue to meet the programme’s criteria.

The application process is streamlined, and decisions are made within 14–30 days. The programme stands out for its flexibility regarding collateral, allowing, amongst other things, personal guarantees, mortgages on property or pledges on movable assets. A list of national operators and details of availability can be found on the Bank Gospodarstwa Krajowego (BGK) website.

The quasi-grant under the “Wsparcie w Starcie” programme enables the effective financing of the purchase of fixed assets, software or marketing activities, which is of crucial importance for start-ups in the start-up phase. However, early repayment of the loan during the grace period may entail the need to repay the benefits derived from the preferential interest rate, which requires careful financial planning.

Start-up Loan 2025 – a new initiative providing investment support for entrepreneurs and families

In 2025, the Ministry of Development and Technology introduced the ‘Start-up Loan’ programme, which focuses on mortgage subsidies but also has an impact on the financing of business operations, particularly for family-run start-ups. The programme provides preferential lending terms through government subsidies towards mortgage repayments, enabling interest rates to be reduced to as low as 0 per cent for large families, and to 1.5 per cent for single people and households without children.

The subsidies depend on the number of people in the household and their income, which is adjusted annually. The monthly net income limits range from 6,500 PLN for a single person to 15,500 PLN for a family of five, with a proportional reduction in support if these thresholds are exceeded. The scheme also sets limits on property size and the maximum loan amounts eligible for the subsidy, with the aim of controlling its impact on the property market and preventing excessive price rises.

Applications for the ‘Kredyt na Start’ scheme are accepted on a quarterly basis, subject to a specific limit – 25,000 applications in the first quarter of 2025 and 20,000 in the second quarter, followed by 15,000 per quarter thereafter. Borrowers must meet income and age criteria, as well as requirements relating to their first home, with the exception of families with at least three children, who are eligible under a broader set of criteria.

The scheme is an integral part of the broader ‘Key to a Home’ housing strategy, which also includes support for social and municipal housing construction and the development of a rent-controlled rental market. It is worth noting that the “Start-up Loan” will replace existing schemes, such as the “Safe 2% Loan” and family housing loans, by introducing BGK’s modern guarantee mechanisms.

Start-up loans for business ventures – banking and public sector offerings in 2025

Alongside government programmes, entrepreneurs can take advantage of a wide range of financial products designed for start-ups and new businesses. Start-up, working capital and investment loans offered by commercial banks enable the financing of equipment purchases, infrastructure expansion and day-to-day operations. Many banks offer preferential terms for young entrepreneurs, including lower interest rates, a grace period on repayments or no arrangement fees.

When applying for a loan, it is essential to prepare a robust business plan, financial forecasts and a complete set of supporting documents. Banks, particularly in the absence of a credit history, require collateral such as guarantees, blank promissory notes, pledges or mortgages. Many institutions collaborate with BGK, offering de minimis guarantees which help to reduce credit risk and facilitate access to finance.

Among the alternative solutions, EU loans, loan-based crowdfunding and support from venture capital funds and business angels stand out. EU loans, for example under the European Funds for a Modern Economy (FENG), offer attractive terms, including low costs, no requirement for an own contribution and advisory support. However, applying for them requires careful preparation and meeting specific conditions.

Taking out a loan brings benefits, such as access to capital and the opportunity to carry out investments, but it also entails the risk of a financial burden and the need for timely repayment. Therefore, the choice of financing should be preceded by a detailed analysis of the business’s needs, creditworthiness and potential growth scenarios.

Recommendations for entrepreneurs planning a start-up loan in 2025

When planning a loan for a start-up in 2025, begin with a very precise analysis of your financial needs. Determine exactly what the funding is to be used for (investments in equipment, product development, marketing, working capital), how much you actually need, and over what timeframe you will be able to repay it. Break the budget down into CAPEX and OPEX, draw up a spending schedule and identify realistic sources of repayment (revenue, funding tranches from investors, other agreements). Draw up scenarios: a conservative one, a base case and an ambitious one, with a sensitivity analysis for key factors (sales, margins, project delays, costs). It is worth setting aside a liquidity buffer covering at least several months, so that any potential setbacks do not jeopardise your ability to service the debt on time.

The next step is thorough documentation. Banks and lenders will assess not only the business idea, but above all its feasibility and cash flows. Prepare a coherent business plan describing the market, the competition, your value proposition, revenue model and commercialisation plan. Include 24–36-month financial forecasts (profit and loss account, balance sheet, cash flow statement) along with assumptions and a sensitivity analysis.

When choosing a source of funding, compare several options rather than focusing solely on a traditional bank loan. Look into preferential schemes: loans from government and regional programmes (including those offered by BGK and loan funds), sureties and guarantees for SMEs, and – for innovative projects – schemes with interest subsidies. In the case of programmes such as ‘First Business – Start-up Support’, low interest rates and a longer grace period are key, but so are the requirements regarding collateral and the applicant’s eligibility. It is good practice to engage in parallel discussions with several institutions, whilst carefully managing the number of credit enquiries so as not to lower your credit score.

If you are considering quasi-grant schemes with the option of partial debt forgiveness, familiarise yourself very thoroughly with the terms and conditions. Forgiveness is often conditional (e.g. maintaining business operations and jobs for a specified period, making payments on time, having no outstanding public-law liabilities, and spending funds in accordance with the intended purpose). Rules and limits may change, so before signing a contract, check the current terms and conditions, reporting requirements and the documents you need to keep for settlement purposes and any potential audits.

Collateral is often a barrier for start-ups, so plan for it in advance. The most common forms include a promissory note, a third-party guarantee, guarantees from guarantee funds, a registered charge or transfer of ownership of fixed assets financed by the loan, a mortgage, assignment of an insurance policy, and a declaration of submission to enforcement. An equity contribution is sometimes required and, in practice, increases the chances of securing finance. If you do not wish to put your personal assets at undue risk, consider external sureties or guarantees and consult a solicitor regarding the structure of the security arrangements.

The regulatory and market environment in 2025 may change, so keep an eye on updates regarding interest rates and reference rates (including the transition from WIBOR to WIRON in new contracts), de minimis aid limits, the terms and conditions of guarantees and preferential loans, and the application timetables for national and regional programmes. Pay attention to tax and reporting obligations, as well as changes to e-invoicing and reporting systems, which may affect the company’s financial operations. It is worth working with an experienced financial adviser and accountant – they will help you choose the right instruments, prepare your application and negotiate the terms.

To increase your chances of a positive decision, maintain a good financial track record and sound financial management: settle your liabilities on time, maintain a good credit rating with BIK, limit unnecessary consumer credit, prepare a realistic own contribution and provide statements confirming your turnover. If possible, demonstrate initial revenue or pilot results, along with hard evidence of demand. Establish an internal financial control system and plan for the phased release of investment funds, whilst ensuring you hold a cash reserve. Also bear in mind the need for a realistic timetable for the entire process – it usually takes several weeks from submitting the full set of documents to the funds being released, and even longer where property is used as security.

Summary

The year 2025 brings significant changes to the financing of start-ups and new businesses in Poland. The ‘First Business – Start-up Support’ programme redefines the concept of grant-based support, facilitating access to repayable capital with the option of write-off. At the same time, the ‘Kredyt na Start’ scheme introduces a new dimension to housing finance, which indirectly contributes to the economic stability of entrepreneurs. Combined with the offerings from banks and EU funds, entrepreneurs have a wide range of financial instruments at their disposal. However, professional analysis, preparation and credit risk management remain crucial, which in turn increases the chances of successful business development in a challenging market environment.

Frequently asked questions

What forms of funding are available for starting a business in 2025?

In 2025, budding entrepreneurs can take advantage of various forms of financing, such as bank loans for business start-ups, loans from the Bank Gospodarstwa Krajowego (BGK) under government programmes, grants, and support from private investors and venture capital funds. Each of these options has its own terms and benefits, and the choice depends on the specific nature of the business, the sector and financial needs.

What is the ‘Start-up Support 2025’ programme and what are its benefits?

The ‘Start-up Support 2025’ programme is a preferential loan for people starting a business, offering favourable terms such as low interest rates, the possibility of partial loan forgiveness (up to 50%), quick decisions (14–30 days) and flexible security requirements. The loan may be used, amongst other things, to purchase fixed assets, software and advertising, as well as to partially cover running costs during the first six months of operation.

What conditions must be met to receive a loan under the ‘Start-up Support’ scheme?

To apply for a loan under the scheme, the entrepreneur must submit a business plan, must not be in full-time employment (if applying for loan forgiveness), and unemployed individuals must not have been economically active during the 12 months prior to submitting the application. In addition, appropriate loan collateral is required, which may vary and be tailored to the client’s circumstances.

How does an EU business development loan differ from a bank loan?

EU loans offer preferential terms, such as lower interest rates (e.g. 2.5 per cent per annum), no commission, the option of a repayment holiday and less stringent collateral requirements. They are aimed primarily at micro-entrepreneurs and can be used for fixed assets and operating costs. Bank loans often involve higher costs and more stringent requirements regarding creditworthiness and collateral.

What documents and collateral are required to obtain a start-up loan?

The most important document is a business plan setting out the company’s objectives, strategy and financial forecasts. Certificates confirming that there are no outstanding tax or social security contributions, as well as the company’s registration documents, are also required.