Against the backdrop of a global economic recession, risk averse capital markets and a pan-European debt crisis, Poland has forged ahead with its planned privatization programs. The intended goal is not only to open up some of Poland's largest sectors (energy, chemicals, and financial services) to competition, but to make Poland a sustainable and truly modern post-communist economy.
In addition to developing "national champions," one major factor that will contribute to Poland's long-term economic success is supporting and nurturing small and medium-sized enterprises as well as the next generation of young entrepreneurs.
One organization determined to help young Polish entrepreneurs break through not only nationally, but in the international arena is Academic Business Incubators (ABI). ABI is part of the greater ABI Group, a network of institutions working to develop the idea of entrepreneurship in Poland. Since its inception in 2004, the ABI has over 1,100 developing companies operating within their framework. They possess 40 business centers throughout Poland, providing physical infrastructure, mentorship, legal, and professional business consulting services for young entrepreneurs looking to launch a start-up as well as teaching entrepreneurship classes at several Polish universities.
One of ABI chairman Dariusz Żuk's major goals is to improve Poland's international branding and showcase its potential as a place for high-tech start-ups and top notch talent. Hopefully, the Polish government will take notice and take a stronger role in positioning the country as a land of educated and innovative entrepreneurs. Having avoided a major economic disaster, now is the time for Poland to take advantage of existing opportunities. This means improving Poland's education infrastructure, attracting capital and providing funding (in the form of grants) for business investment.
As the Shanghai 2010 Expo has demonstrated, competition to attract global business and investment is increasingly fierce. This is especially true among struggling (and increasingly nationalistic) European economies hoping to expand their footprint into Asia and other emerging markets. Unlike past market booms and bubbles, investing in Poland's young start-ups and human capital, is one investment surely to bring positive returns.
