The procedure for selecting projects funded through the statutory subsidy, Poland’s convergence with the European Union in terms of innovation, and the establishment of a Shared Services Center were the main topics discussed during the meeting of the Directors of the Łukasiewicz Research Network, held on March 20 at Łukasiewicz – PORT in Wrocław.
The meeting was chaired by the President of the Łukasiewicz Research Network, Dr. Hubert Cichocki, and attended by Vice Presidents Wiesław Skwarko and Prof. Jolanta Itrich-Drabarek, Vice President for Research. Prof. Itrich-Drabarek presented the project selection procedure for subsidy-funded initiatives, emphasizing that the process aims to standardize rules across the network, ensure alignment with strategic priorities, and improve organizational efficiency. She also highlighted the importance of supporting the development of research staff competencies, particularly in securing funding, preparing project proposals, and commercializing research outcomes.
During the meeting, participants also discussed the concept of establishing a Shared Services Center. The proposal was presented by Aleksandra Remelska, Deputy Director for Controlling and Cooperation with the Łukasiewicz Center, and Michał Makurat, Deputy Director of the Network Organizational Support Department for IT and Digitalization. The goal of the Shared Services Center is to relieve institutes of administrative support functions, standardize and streamline processes, and enhance operational efficiency and access to specialized expertise.
Prof. Jarosław Bosy, Director of Łukasiewicz – PORT, presented the institute’s activities based on its Multiannual Development Plan. He emphasized that people and their competencies form the operational foundation of the organization, and that staff development is one of its key strategic priorities. The presenation highlighted the dual nature of the institute’s research activities, encompassing both basic and applied research, as well as the importance of a coherent organizational structure built around three centers forming a single R&D ecosystem. The Director also discussed a significant year-over-year increase in both the number of acquired projects and revenues from commercialization in 2025.
Janusz Jabłonowski, Chief Economist of the network, analyzed Poland’s innovation performance in comparison with other European Union countries. He noted that further economic convergence will require a shift toward an innovation-driven model, with particular emphasis on investing in competencies and strengthening collaboration between science and industry. In this context, the Łukasiewicz Research Network was highlighted as a key player supporting technology transfer, commercialization, and the integration of the innovation ecosystem.
