Over the last few years, the entrepreneurial spirit of Ukrainian migrants in Poland has flourished, with increasing numbers of Ukrainians shifting from employment to running their own businesses. This trend has not only been a driving force behind the growth of new businesses but has also significantly contributed to the Polish economy. According to the analytical center Gremi Personal, in the past three years alone, Ukrainian migrants have registered a total of 77,700 individual entrepreneurs (IEs), making up 9% of all new businesses in Poland. Additionally, 11,300 companies with Ukrainian capital have been established in the country. This represents a substantial percentage of new enterprises, highlighting the growing role of Ukrainians in Poland’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The Rise of Ukrainian Entrepreneurs in Poland

Ukrainian migrants are playing a pivotal role in reshaping the private business landscape in Poland. As of 2024, Ukrainians have opened 12% of all individual enterprises in Poland, with a staggering 84% of foreign-owned businesses in the country being established by Ukrainians. This marks a sharp increase in entrepreneurial activity, which is particularly evident in the construction, logistics, and information technology sectors. The shift from employment to entrepreneurship is primarily driven by Ukrainians’ desire to apply their skills and experience more effectively in the Polish market, where opportunities for growth are increasingly abundant.

One of the key factors driving this shift is the growing openness of Polish companies to collaborate with Ukrainian entrepreneurs. The construction, logistics, and industrial sectors in Poland have become prime areas for cooperation, with Ukrainian businesses contributing significantly to the expansion of these industries. However, challenges still remain. Bureaucratic hurdles, such as complex paperwork and regulations, pose difficulties for Ukrainian entrepreneurs trying to establish or grow their businesses. Furthermore, finding reliable business partners remains a critical challenge, particularly as the market becomes more competitive and diverse.

Key Sectors of Ukrainian Migrants' Entrepreneurial Activities

Ukrainian migrants in Poland are particularly active in three main sectors: construction, information and communication technologies (ICT), and the service industry. In fact, 23% of all Ukrainian-run businesses are in construction, a sector that has seen rapid growth in recent years. This includes everything from residential and commercial construction projects to specialized services such as renovation and repair works. Many Ukrainian entrepreneurs bring a wealth of experience and expertise from the Ukrainian market, where the construction industry has been expanding rapidly due to increasing demand for housing, infrastructure, and urban development.

Another prominent sector is information and communication technologies (ICT), where 18% of Ukrainian-run businesses in Poland are involved. This includes everything from software development to digital marketing, cybersecurity services, and other technology-driven businesses. The Ukrainian diaspora in Poland is rich with highly skilled professionals in the tech industry, making the country a hotspot for innovation and technological growth. With Poland’s strategic position in Central Europe and its growing tech ecosystem, Ukrainian entrepreneurs are finding ample opportunities to tap into the digital economy, further cementing Poland’s role as a leader in the European tech scene.

In the service sector, 13% of Ukrainian-run businesses are active, with a significant number of them focusing on hairdressing and beauty services. In fact, around 82% of all service-oriented Ukrainian enterprises in Poland are in the beauty and personal care sector. This highlights the growing demand for beauty services among both locals and fellow migrants. Many Ukrainian entrepreneurs have established successful beauty salons, barber shops, and spas, providing high-quality services at competitive prices. The personal care industry has proven to be a reliable and profitable sector, especially in major cities such as Warsaw, Kraków, and Wrocław.

The annual growth rate of Ukrainian-run enterprises in Poland between 2022 and 2024 has been impressive, at a rate of 34%. This demonstrates the increasing confidence of Ukrainian entrepreneurs in the Polish market and their ability to navigate the challenges of setting up businesses in a foreign country. The significant rise in the number of businesses created by Ukrainian migrants is a testament to their resilience, resourcefulness, and entrepreneurial mindset.

The Role of Polish Companies in Ukraine

While Polish businesses have made significant strides in establishing themselves in Ukraine, their numbers are much smaller in comparison to Ukrainian enterprises in Poland. As of 2024, there are only 3,635 Polish companies operating in Ukraine, which is 21 times fewer than the number of Ukrainian-run businesses in Poland. Despite this disparity, Polish companies are still eager to expand into the Ukrainian market, particularly in regions that are close to the Polish border, such as Lviv and Kyiv.

The industries where Polish companies have made the most headway in Ukraine include trade (31%) and manufacturing (17%). These sectors are seen as promising areas for growth, particularly as the Ukrainian economy recovers and stabilizes following years of geopolitical instability. Polish businesses are keen to explore new opportunities in the construction, manufacturing, and hospitality sectors, which are all considered prime areas for investment. However, security risks continue to be a major concern for Polish entrepreneurs looking to expand into Ukraine, with the ongoing conflict in the region posing a significant challenge to business growth and expansion.

The Economic Impact of Immigration on Poland

The influx of migrants to Poland, particularly from Ukraine, has had a profound impact on the country’s economy. Since 2014, when large numbers of Ukrainian migrants began arriving in Poland, the Polish economy has experienced significant growth, driven in part by the contribution of migrants. According to a study conducted by the Forum for Responsible Development, without immigration, Poland’s GDP in 2023 would have been 2.3% lower. Immigration has played a key role in filling labor shortages, particularly in sectors such as construction, agriculture, and hospitality, which have traditionally relied on migrant labor.

Looking ahead, migration is expected to continue to be a major factor in Poland’s economic development. The same study forecasts that by 2050, migration could contribute as much as 12.5% to Poland’s overall GDP growth. This highlights the long-term benefits of immigration for the Polish economy, particularly as the country faces demographic challenges, including an aging population and declining birth rates.

The Future of Ukrainian Entrepreneurs in Poland

As the number of Ukrainian migrants continues to grow, their role in Poland’s entrepreneurial landscape is expected to become even more significant. Polish companies are increasingly seeing the value of working with Ukrainian entrepreneurs, not only for their skills and experience but also for the cultural ties they bring to the table. As Poland continues to integrate more migrants into its workforce, Ukrainian entrepreneurs are likely to play a key role in shaping the future of the country’s business environment.

To further foster this growth, Polish authorities can consider implementing policies that ease the bureaucratic burden for foreign entrepreneurs, including simplified registration processes and tax incentives. In addition, creating a more conducive environment for finding trustworthy business partners could go a long way in encouraging more Ukrainians to establish businesses in Poland. Collaboration between Polish and Ukrainian entrepreneurs can help both countries grow economically, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship that strengthens the region as a whole.

Practical Advice for Ukrainian Entrepreneurs in Poland

If you’re a Ukrainian entrepreneur looking to start a business in Poland, here are some practical tips to help you navigate the process:

• Understand the legal requirements: Familiarize yourself with the legal and regulatory requirements for starting a business in Poland. This includes registering your business, obtaining necessary permits, and understanding tax obligations.
• Network and build relationships: Building a network of business contacts in Poland can be invaluable. Attend local business events, join industry associations, and seek mentorship from established entrepreneurs to gain insights into the local market.
• Leverage government support: Poland offers various support programs for foreign entrepreneurs, including grants, subsidies, and low-interest loans. Take advantage of these programs to reduce startup costs and access financial support.
• Adapt to the local market: Understanding Polish consumer preferences and adapting your products or services to meet their needs is essential for success. Conduct market research to identify potential gaps and opportunities in your industry.
• Collaborate with local partners: Partnering with Polish businesses can help you navigate the local market more effectively and reduce risks. Look for partners who share your vision and values.

Conclusion

Ukrainian migrants have become an integral part of the private business sector in Poland, contributing to the country’s economic growth through entrepreneurship. Their involvement in key sectors such as construction, information technology, and the service industry is driving innovation, creating jobs, and helping to strengthen Poland’s economy. As the entrepreneurial landscape continues to evolve, Ukrainian entrepreneurs will play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of Polish business. With continued support from both the Polish government and the business community, Ukrainian migrants are poised to make even greater contributions to Poland’s economic success in the years to come.