ICSB is proud to present an insightful conversation by Alina Landowska, ICSB Expert, with Ms. Agnieszka Majewska, Poland’s Ombudsperson for SMEs, conducted by our esteemed ICSB Expert from Poland.
In this compelling discussion, Ms. Majewska shares her perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Poland, the evolving business landscape, and the crucial role of policy and support mechanisms in fostering SME growth.
This in-depth interview offers valuable insights into how Poland is shaping its SME ecosystem, empowering entrepreneurs, and ensuring a sustainable future for small businesses.
What inspired you to take on the role of Ombudsperson for SMEs in Poland?
[Agnieszka Majewska, Polish Ombudsperson for SMEs]:
I took on this role because I believe SMEs are the backbone of Poland’s economy. They generate nearly half of our GDP and employ over 60% of workers, but they also face numerous challenges, from regulatory barriers to navigating public administration.
Through my work in economic law and years of collaboration with entrepreneurs, I’ve seen these struggles firsthand. I wanted to advocate for their needs, simplify regulations, and create a business-friendly environment in Poland. A key moment in my journey was my involvement in the “small ZUS” regulations, which showed me the importance of including entrepreneurs’ perspectives in policymaking. Another defining experience was helping companies comply with EU requirements, like the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), where I saw the need for simple and practical solutions.
How have your previous experiences shaped your vision for supporting SMEs?
[Agnieszka Majewska]:
My background is diverse—I’ve worked in courts, collaborated with public administration, and engaged with non-governmental organizations. This has given me a unique perspective, allowing me to understand both the challenges faced by entrepreneurs and the complexities within state administration.
I see digital transformation and sustainability as essential for the future of SMEs. I focus on preparing Polish businesses for upcoming changes, such as EU regulations like the CSRD and the AI Act, while also providing clear, practical tools for implementation. For instance, Polish startups are leaders in artificial intelligence, with innovative solutions in areas like business automation and cybersecurity. My goal is to support these companies in building a competitive edge in domestic and international markets.
What is the current state of the SME sector in Poland?
[Agnieszka Majewska]:
Poland’s SME sector is vibrant and diverse. SMEs generate 50% of our GDP and employ over 60% of the workforce. However, entrepreneurs face several challenges, including high taxes, frequently changing regulations, and limited access to financing.
A common concern I hear during my meetings with business owners is the complexity of tax regulations and the lack of support in navigating EU directives. For example, the introduction of the JPK (Uniform Control File) reporting system caused significant confusion for small businesses. My office has focused on providing education and consulting to help entrepreneurs meet such requirements and reduce their administrative burden.
What are the key initiatives your office is prioritizing to support SMEs?
[Agnieszka Majewska]:
We are focusing on three main areas. First, on simplifying regulations. We are working to streamline processes, such as business registration, and reduce administrative burdens for micro-enterprises. Second, on supporting digitalization. We help SMEs adopt new technologies, such as AI-based solutions, to improve efficiency and drive growth. For example, during the “Entrepreneurs Facing Upcoming Changes” conference, we introduced programs to assist businesses in implementing AI-driven tools like customer analytics. Finally, on promoting exports. We collaborate with the Polish Investment and Trade Agency to help SMEs expand into foreign markets. Programs like trade missions and international fairs connect Polish entrepreneurs with global opportunities.
How is your office supporting SMEs in recovering from the economic impact of COVID-19?
[Agnieszka Majewska]:
The pandemic created significant challenges for SMEs, particularly in maintaining financial stability. To help, we introduced measures like preferential loans, wage subsidies, and a consultation platform where entrepreneurs could raise concerns about new regulations.
One success story from this platform was an amendment to the anti-crisis shield, which allowed more businesses to access critical support. These initiatives restored trust in the SME sector and provided much-needed liquidity during a difficult time.
How does your office assist SMEs in adopting digital technologies and driving innovation, especially AI-based solutions?
[Agnieszka Majewska]:
Digital transformation isn’t just about adopting new tools—it’s about rethinking how businesses operate. We encourage entrepreneurs to leverage data for decision-making, automate processes, and develop online sales channels.
One example is a family-owned furniture company that adopted an AI-powered e-commerce platform. Within two years, they doubled their revenue. These are the kinds of success stories we aim to replicate by helping businesses embrace AI and other transformative technologies.
What strategies are helping Polish SMEs expand into international markets?
[Agnieszka Majewska]:
Polish SMEs have enormous potential to compete globally. We work closely with the Polish Investment and Trade Agency (PAIH) to organize trade missions, international fairs, and training programs. These initiatives help entrepreneurs establish connections in foreign markets.
Technology startups are also benefiting from programs like the Idea Global Accelerator, which provides advisory and financial support to help them enter international markets. Additionally, EU programs like COSME and Horizon Europe give Polish companies access to funding and mentorship, supporting their growth abroad.
How does collaboration with international organizations like ICSB strengthen Poland’s SME sector?
[Agnieszka Majewska]:
Collaboration with international organizations like the International Council for Small Business (ICSB) is invaluable. ICSB provides a platform to share best practices and build global networks for SMEs.
Together, we can organize events and workshops on key topics like digitalization and ESG compliance, helping entrepreneurs stay ahead of global trends. ICSB also plays a role in promoting Polish SMEs on the international stage, creating opportunities for growth and partnerships.
What is your vision for the SME sector in Poland over the next five years?
[Agnieszka Majewska]:
My vision focuses on three areas: digital transformation, sustainable development, and international competitiveness. I want to ensure Polish companies are ready for new challenges, such as implementing EU regulations like the CSRD and AI Act.
Simplifying legal processes remains a priority, so entrepreneurs can spend more time growing their businesses rather than managing paperwork. I also want to increase awareness of ESG practices and support SMEs in adapting to sustainability requirements.
With these efforts, I believe Poland can become a leader in SME innovation and competitiveness in Central and Eastern Europe. Our entrepreneurs have immense potential, and my role is to ensure they have the tools and support to thrive.
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Agnieszka Majewska was appointed as the Ombudsperson for Small and Medium-Sized Entrepreneurs on June 25, 2024. She holds a master’s degree in administration, earned from the Faculty of Law and Administration at the University of Gdansk, and a master’s degree in law from the University of Silesia. In 2010, she passed the judicial exam and was registered as a legal advisor. Additionally, she completed postgraduate studies in tax consulting at the Higher School of Banking in Gdansk.
With two decades of experience in administrative and economic law, she has established herself as an accomplished legal counselor. Her professional journey includes work at the District Court in Gdansk and the Provincial Administrative Court in Gdansk. She also collaborates with WSB Merito University and the Social and Economic University in Gdansk, where she teaches administrative proceedings. As an expert in administrative law, she has delivered numerous presentations at both scientific and popular science conferences.
From 2019 to 2024, she served as the Field Representative of the Ombudsperson for Small and Medium-Sized Entrepreneurs in Gdansk. In this role, she maintained close dialogue and collaboration with employer organizations and business communities, successfully conducting numerous interventions to defend entrepreneurs’ rights.
Agnieszka Majewska is a member of the Pomeranian Entrepreneurship Council and serves as Vice-Chair of the Gdansk Entrepreneurship Council. She is also an expert in the Pomeranian Women’s Team, where she contributes to initiatives supporting entrepreneurship in the region.