Poland Prize powered by Huge Thing 13th Edition

2022 Edition

Pilot to Poland,
Expand in Poland

Poland Prize powered by Huge Thing aims to help non-Polish startups by:

  • Setting up their entity in Poland
  • Providing up to €65K funding for expansion plan
  • Connecting them with Technology Recipients and VCs for up to 6 months of validations or pilots
We help you understand Polish business better so you can focus on acceleration with our Partners. Some startups might want to focus on opening a company in a new country and high-quality mentoring and professional workshops at every stage. Others might be willing to test their product with partners. We help to find the best path for you and your team! At Huge Thing, our goal is to connect startups with partners so you can show what you do best – develop tech solutions. This usually means: accelerating you to the point where you’re ready to validate your business with corporations or VC funds. Then we can introduce you to a larger network — who knows maybe you will raise your next investment round in Poland.Huge Thing is looking for 15 startups in this round. 

Who are we looking for?

If you want to participate in the Poland Prize program, you must meet the following requirements:

1

Poland is for your potential next market to enter

2

You are willing to set up a company in Poland – Don’t worry! If you get in, our legal team will help you through the process of registration, opening a bank account etc.

3

At least 50% of shares in the new Polish company will belong to the founders of the team from outside Poland and at least one of the management board members comes from outside Poland

4

Your Polish company wasn’t created through a merging or splitting of already-existing companies

5

Your team is ready to respond to areas of interest identified by partners of the accelerator

6

You have a proof of concept for your idea

7

Your business idea already generates revenue

8

Your team is well-motivated and ready for new challenges

Program Highlights & Timeline of 13th Edition

What are your options?

Phase 2 is available only if your Partner is still interested in your solution and there's potential for PoC

Phase 1 (3 months)

After entering the program firstly you will take part in Phases named Soft-landing and Development. This part is focused on creating a company on Polish law, knowing more about the Polish market and checking the possibility of POC with the Partner.

Main goals for this phase: 
  • Established company with a bank account with the support of the dedicated legal team
  • Gaining the necessary knowledge – you will take part in several workshops dedicated to startups entering the Polish market
  • Knowing the community and market – You will get access to a Huge Thing network of experts and other startups from your industry
  • Checking if you have a match with a potential partner and you can realize the POC together
  • an equity-free grant worth PLN50k (EUR 10,5k)

Phase 2 (6 months)

If you get a match with the Partner,  you enter the next program Phase named Acceleration. During this phase, you will run the POC with the Partner to check how the solution works and if there is a possibility for further cooperation.

Main goals for this phase: 
  • Setting the POC Plan – 3-step Acceleration Plan prepared especially for you with the Huge Thing team and Partner.
  • Leading the POC with the Partner
  • Gaining the necessary knowledge – you will take part in several workshops dedicated to startups and work with dedicated mentors and tutors
  • an equity-free grant worth up to PLN250k (EUR 65k)

Meet our Partners

Do you want to join the group of program partners? Check HERE who can be a partner and what benefits from working with startups under the program.

  • How to treat industrial wastewater for reuse in industry and agriculture
  • How to implement methods for the recovery of phosphorus from wastewater
  • How to optimize investments into DWN pipelines in order to reduce non-revenue water while minimizing costs
  • How to aerate wastewater in wastewater treatment plants in an energy efficient way
  • How to compost wastewater sludge in an odorless way (“no-smell composting”) while maintaining a high quality of compost
  • How to measure and analyse the consumption of energy (heat and electricity) in residential buildings?
  • How to manage and control the thermal comfort of residents in multi-apartment residential buildings?
  • How to maximize the heat-generation capabilities of PVT (Photovoltaic Thermal) panels in low outdoor temperatures
  • How to efficiently store heat (daily and seasonal storage)?
  • How to recover heat from municipal wastewater in order to supply heat to individual buildings or to the District Heating Network?
  • How to support the collection, organization and analysis of data needed for ESG reporting.
  • How to bring contextual information to technicians through Augmented Reality technology
Veolia Group in Poland has been a reliable partner of cities and industry in the area of effective energy management, water and wastewater management and waste management for over 25 years. Based on knowledge and experience, it offers innovative services tailored to the needs of Customers. By investing in the expansion and modernization of its production and distribution infrastructure, it ensures the highest quality of services. Veolia constantly looks for innovative solutions in areas such as decarbonization, energy efficiency, e-mobility, indoor air quality and energy balancing. Taking into account the circular economy model, it creates and implements economically and environmentally effective solutions contributing to the sustainable development of cities and industry.
  • Collection of waste
  • Packaging
  • Manufacturing
  • Deposit approach (both products & services)

Coca Cola HBC Poland & Baltics is a branch of Coca-Cola HBC AG, a strategic partner and the world’s second largest bottler of The Coca-Cola Company beverages, reaching over 590 million consumers. We operate on 4 among: Polish, Lithuanian, Latvian and Estonian, and our portfolio includes: Coca-Cola carbonated drinks, Coca-Cola Zero, Coke Energy, Cherry Coke, Fanta, Sprite, Kinley Tonic, juices and nectars Cappy, Kropla Beskidu and Kropla Delice mineral waters, Burn energy drinks, Monster Energy and Predator and Fuzetea iced teas.

Żabka Polska is the owner of the fastest-growing chain of convenience stores in Poland and one of the most dynamic formats in the world, opening more than 4000 new stores in 2016-21. There are over 8,400 stores operated by more than 7,100 franchisees under the Żabka brand. About 15.5 million Polish consumers live no further than 500 m from the nearest Żabka store. To provide them with convenience and the highest quality of service, Żabka Future develops technological and system tools for the future. As part of the Żabka Group responsibility strategy, the chain has made commitments in the areas of good nutrition, services that facilitate sustainable life, the development of entrepreneurship, diversity and inclusive organizational culture, corporate governance, as well as decarbonization and circular economy. More information about Żabka Polska on: www.zabka.pl.

EIT InnoEnergy is a leading fund investing in energy, cleantech, mobility, and broader smart technology solutions, both in Europe and beyond. Since its creation in 2010, and with the support of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), it has invested €560 million in sustainable energy innovation, providing funding and additional support to approximately 380 start-ups.

Black Pearls VC is a Polish based early stage venture capital firm focused on seed, post-seed and Series A investments in leading tech startups from Northern & Central Europe. Focusing on supporting ambitious entrepreneurs in building companies with a global reach, Black Pearls VC is usually one of the first investors in the company, helping founders scale and reach their goals. Typical ticket ranges between €100k – €1m, with follow-on investments in later rounds. So far Black Pearls VC has invested in over 30 companies.
Innovation Nest is a European VC that invests in early-stage B2B software companies. We’re a group of serial entrepreneurs applying diverse perspectives within industries ready for a transformation. Our diversity gives us a broader perspective, allowing us to empower entrepreneurs working on different projects within various disciplines and sectors.
Market One Capital is a 45M pan-European VC, led by an experienced team of entrepreneurs. We invest tickets from 200k up to 1.5M EUR in early stage network effects platforms. We are a Pan-European early stage VC fund investing into marketplaces / digital platforms and SaaS. We founded and scaled 3 online platforms ourselves as entrepreneurs. We have invested in 60+ early-stage tech startups (majority of them being platforms or SaaS), including Docplanner, Brainly, Tier Mobility, Packhelp and Genial.ly
CofounderZone aims to build an ecosystem where two coexisting worlds can find common ground to cooperate. As we believe, collaboration of that kind needs proper facilitation and fitting personalities. That is why CofounderZone puts strong emphasis on people – cofounders of startups and founders of established businesses, turned angel investors – all in order to propel the exchange of experience, as well as human and investment capital.
Supporting Partner

Enterprise Singapore’s partnering in the Poland Prize program is a step towards bridging Singapore and Poland as well as the CEE region.
Visit website
Enterprise Singapore is the Singapore government agency championing enterprise development. It also supports the growth of Singapore as a hub for global trading and startups. The agency attracts global commodities traders to establish their global or Asian home base in Singapore. Today, Singapore is a leading global trading hub with a complete ecosystem for the energy, agri-commodities and metals & minerals trading clusters. Singapore is also home to many global enterprises, startups and investors that operate in its robust pro-enterprise environment. With Enterprise Singapore’s global network in over 35 locations spanning many developed and emerging markets, it connects businesses with relevant Singapore companies for their business expansion.
Going is one of the leaders in event ticketing in Poland. Following the buyout of Going by Empik Group, Empik Tickets and Going’s platform constitute Poland’s largest ticketing platform and the first 360-degree multi-channel platform. It distributes tickets, promotes content and creates original content, inspects tickets and handles events.
Approximately one million tickets are sold annually through these platforms, and the strong support of the Empik Group and numerous promotions for users of Empik Group’s services mean that the platform is enjoying a return of growing interest after a difficult pandemic period. 
 
Transcom WorldWide is a Swedish outsourcing company which provides customer care, sales, technical support, and collections services through an extensive network of contact centers and work-at-home agents.
The company operates in Europe, North and South America, Asia and North Africa. Transcom employs 29,000 customer experience specialists at 50 contact centers across 21 countries, delivering services in 33 languages to international brands in various industry verticals.
 

Program summary

We look for non-Polish startups with at least one founder without Polish citizenship and a at least 50% of shares belongs to non-Polish board members. Teams must have the ability to answer the technical challenges defined by our Partners.
Acceleration is for startups that already gained customers for their product who are ready to start into the Polish market.
The recruitment process consists of 3 stages: enrollment of application, interviews followed by verification, and Bootcamp.
Top teams are invited for an online, 3-day Bootcamp consisting of 1:1s, workshops and more.
The program consists of workshops, mentoring sessions, Polish lessons and individual work on your projects.
We share our best practices to support the strategic and measurable growth of your business at scale Startups chosen for the program will receive up to €65 000 in financial support & a huge dose of know-how.
You can take part in the program for free – no cost or equity. We do not cover the expenses of establishing the company, your meals and accommodation.
Do you have any questions? Contact us via email: hello@hugething.vc

You can learn more about the details of the program – check out the FAQ questions.

Startups

Empyrio

EMPYRIO compact incinerator allows low-cost utilization of sewage sludge onsite at small and medium size wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), providing ashes for further phosphorus recovery.

Redigo Carbon

Redigo connects to companies’ internal systems and directly to utility providers and automatically collects relevant Scope 1, 2, 3 data in real time. The Redigo database, using our proprietary algorithm calculates the CO2 equivalent and visualises companies' past, present and estimated future emissions.

Ithaca Clean Energy

Ithaca Clean Energy’s mission is to digitally transform offshore wind towards greater sustainability. WATERFRONT enables offshore wind and fisheries to prosper together, and therefore helps accelerate the deployment and sustainable growth of offshore wind in the United States, the Baltic Sea and globally.

Structure Plus

Structure Plus is an AI platform that saves money and time for real-estate developers by reducing concrete and steel usage in structures by optimizing the structural design.

Teknobuilt

Teknobuilt brings surety and savings in execution of construction projects by use of an end to end digital project delivery platform PACE OS 4.0 and built environment industry expertise. The state-of-the-art technology has assisted organizations to break down the silos and provide the roadmap to users to achieve maximum productivity while ensuring safety of its employees.

Power Drone

POWER DRONE is a data analytics tech company using drones for automated inspections of overhead power lines and other energy infrastructure such as wind & solar parks and underground pipelines. The company has developed its own software platform for data analytics applying AI & machine learning algorithms.

Traxlo

Traxlo’ operates a retail grocery store tasks marketplace tasku.app, which task’ifies daily operations of the grocery stores: date checking, product stocking, planogram compliance, merchandising and many more. It is an outsourced service for the retail operators or FMCG product brands inside the retail store. The operational model enables local communities around the stores to earn important extra income and make retail operations more sustainable.

eID Easy

eID Easy helps businesses adopt Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES). The goal is integrate all existing solutions like SimplySign, mSafir, eDO app, smart cards and USB tokens. In addition create one time certificates with use identification methods like Profil Zaufany that do not support eIDAS approved Qualified nor Advanced signatures out of the box.

Renbloc

Renbloc helps companies understand exactly where their energy comes from by providing them with a real-time renewable index that shows what percentage is renewable and how much CO2 emissions are coming from non-renewable consumption.

Screvo

Screvo reimagines the currently fragmented retail promotion and purchase experience to create the ultimate sales booster superapp. The aim is to maximize the value created by startup for users as well as the sales potential for participating merchants and brands.

Spawnfoam is a biotechnology company currently based in Portugal that is disrupting the biocomposite market, substantially eliminating the use of plastic. Developed with an intrinsic economic logic for circular economy, Spawnfoam products are made with by-products from agricultural and forestry activities, reinforced with an organic adhesive. These biocomposites are environmentally friendly, complex, and customizable.

Battronics develops Battery Aging Database with predictive analytics and Machine Learning to predict remaining battery life in Energy Storage and Electric vehicles

iVCV's explainable AI is trained in an unbiased way to ensure an equal evaluation of the candidates' applications. The iVCV algorithm does not make a hiring decision in place of recruiters; rather, it provides recruiters with detailed and unbiased information to make a data-driven decision.

Candam Tech

Candam provides technology for Circular Economy. Startup leads innovation in Waste Management sector by designing and distributing European patented hardware and software tools for Rewarding, Deposit Refund and Reusable Packaging schemes. Candam created RecySmart, the unique IoT device adaptable to existing waste bins and capable of identifying citizens and characterising the packaging items they recycle thanks to innovative and patented technologies.

IMMUNE X-TPRMTM tackles key challenges in managing third-party risks throughout the entire lifecycle of relationships by providing comprehensive visibility into the complex network of third, fourth, and Nth-parties. The platform streamlines risk assessments using data analytics and digital tools, supports proactive risk management through continuous monitoring, and aids in maintaining regulatory compliance.

Documents

Rules of the acceleration program

Rules of enrollment process
GDPR and Privacy Policy
Grant entrustment agreement  also known as Acceleration agreement
Annex to Grant entrustment agreement  also known as Acceleration agreement
Non-disclosure agreement for both parties to sign before the acceleration

Startups which took part in a program

Do you have any questions?

We’ll be more than happy, to answer you!

Orlen

1. Tools for econometric analysis in the MarTech

We are looking for a solution that will enable econometric analyses in the context of planning marketing campaign activities. The system should have the capability to create econometric models (automatically, manually, inference systems based on distributed databases)

 

2. Electricity management in pilot energy community to to increase efficiency

We’re seeking a new energy billing model and compatible control system for a 50 kWp PV and 120 kWh energy storage project within an energy community. The solution must optimize electricity management based on dynamic pricing, enable monitoring, forecasting, and flow control for maximized self-consumption and adaptation to local energy needs. Scalability for future offerings is important.

 

3. Innovative technologies to improve the energy efficiency of process steam production

We are looking for a technology based on the cascade conversion of energy from hot air to improve the efficiency of steam production processes and generate additional electricity from previously unused thermal resources.

 

4. Tools to detect potential irregularities/frauds in the handling of transactions at petrol stations

We are looking for a solution to increase the level of detection and prevention of activities that may occur in transactions at service stations. The solution should use self-learning mechanisms.

 

5. Tools to optimise the management of the vehicle fleet (forklifts and tractors) on the production site

We are looking for a tool to coordinate the movement of vehicles (forklifts, tractors and semi-trailers up to 12 tonnes) within the company to enable the automation of company intralogistics.

 

6. Tools for measuring process steam flow using non-invasive techniques

We are looking for non-invasive tools to improve the accuracy of steam measurements on production facilities.

BNP Paribas

1. We are looking for an AI tool (agent) that will support BNP Paribas in a quick analysis of sme companies using available and up-to-date online sources for banking products.

 

2. Anti-fraud and KYC tool
We are looking for tools to support anti-fraud, anti-money laundering (AML) and know your customer (KYC) processes. These tools should demonstrate an innovative, proprietary approach to detecting fraud and money laundering patterns. We expect them to provide functionality to detect dormant accounts used for cybercrime, significantly speed up and simplify KYC activities, and effectively cross-check information between different data channels.

Carslberg Polska

Complaints and inquiries module in Hoppy application 

 

We’re looking for a solution applicable in the Hoppy application which will support users in sending complaints. On the other hand the solution should support admin in effective management of reported complaints and inquiries.

PM3D

Data aggregator

We are looking for solutions that allow aggregation of data from different municipal systems. Current municipal systems are fragmented and poorly integrated due to disparate technologies and vendor lock-in, hindering public service and data management. This lack of a universal platform prevents efficient data exchange between key services.
The business need is an open, secure, and scalable integration platform to unify systems, improve management, and enhance citizen service.

Saint-Gobain

1. AI Agent

We are looking for an AI tool that will function within the website and, based on the company’s data resources, answer customer questions and create personalized recommendations for the use of Saint-Gobain materials and services. The agent must understand project requirements, suggest optimal materials and ensure compliance with sustainability and construction standards. His main task will be to provide Investors, Contractors and Designers with reliable information on the company’s products and complete system solutions tailored to the client’s needs.  The solution should be scalable to include data covering various brands and capable of being implemented across various websites.

 

2. Building analysis

We are looking for a sales tool that will allow an in-depth analysis of the client’s planned investment – construction or renovation of various types of buildings. The tool should take into account basic as well as advanced parameters, such as primary energy demand, CO2 emissions, the amount of renewable energy needed to balance CO2, energy demand for cooling, acoustic analysis, daylight comfort or fire safety.
The tool should analyze the various parameters of the building depending on the material used (from the company’s portfolio) and recommend materials whose use will improve the parameters of the building to comply with current legislation and meet the customer’s needs

PZU - challenges

1. Mass process optimisation

Optimisation and automation of mass processes (e.g. benefits processing, claims settlement, underwriting, automation of back office processes, customer relationship management), particularly through tools using GenAI.

 

2. Pricing excellence

The challenge can be solved by a tool to better estimate and price insurance risks, both for individual and corporate clients, or by increasing the dataset for estimation or adding new variables to assess the risk of an event.

 

3. Insurance prevention

We’re looking for startups providing technologies and tools such as digital customer service platforms, advanced risk analysis tools or artificial intelligence to help manage risk and improve safety. The area of interest includes solutions for both corporate and individual clients. 

 

4. Emerging technologies supporting insurance customer experience management.

 

5. All insurtech startups

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Franek Domachowski

Junior Program Manager

At Huge Thing, Franek actively supports programme managers in running acceleration programmes. He is an innovation and technology enthusiast with a deep passion for fashion and fabrics.

He studied at the School of Innovations at SWPS University in Warsaw, where he gained valuable knowledge about cutting-edge solutions. During his studies, he also worked as a researcher, conducting interviews for various projects, including a collaboration with Sexed. He gained valuable experience as a junior insight specialist, where he was responsible for creating UX reports.

Franek is a true people person, always eager to start conversations and meet new people. In his free time, he enjoys spending time outdoors and unwinding with a good film.

Veolia Poland - challenges

1. AI-assisted notes from meetings
We’re looking for a solution which will support Veolia’s employees in creating notes after meetings which will be used to share in the organisation. The tool should have a feature for self-correcting notes by users.
 
2. Tool to verify ability to perform complex activities such as driving vehicles and machinery
We are looking for a tool to quickly and comprehensively verify the ability of workers to undertake work, especially in production facilities where they are dealing with advanced equipment.
 
3.  Tool for analysing contract terms
We are looking for a solution which will analyze customer’s contracts in order to verify the validity of clauses against changes in the contract template over the years. Based on the results, Veolia will be looking to conclude an addendum making the necessary adjustments.
 
4. Sending customers the GDPR consent
We are looking for a tool simplifying the sending of personal data consent, which will make it easier to send offers to customers.
 

5. Customer experince improvement

We’re looking for startups that use the latest technology to improve customer experience while filling the forms and increasing customer egagement.
 
6. We are looking for solutions in HR Tech

Rossmann - challenges

The main challenge for this batch is to support Rossmann customers in the independent purchasing process, which can be delivered due to:

  • Connecting the online and offline worlds;
  • Providing personalised content for social groups and individual customers;
  • Activities within marketing using AR, rich content. virtual assistants, augmented reality to enrich cosmetic information. Solutions to engage younger generations entering the shopping market;
  • Technologies to ensure security at self-service checkouts (video analysis, fraud detection).

PZU

We are looking for:

    1. Mass process optimisation. Optimisation and automation of mass processes (e.g. claims settlement, underwriting, automation of back office processes, customer relationship management), particularly through tools using GenAI.
    2. Pricing excellence. The challenge can be solved by a tool to better estimate and price insurance risks, both for individual and corporate clients, or by increasing the dataset for estimation or adding new variables to assess the risk of an event.
    3. Insurance prevention. We’re looking for startups providing technologies and tools such as digital customer service platforms, advanced risk analysis tools or artificial intelligence to help manage risk and improve safety. The area of interest includes solutions for both corporate and individual clients, particularly in the areas of health prevention and wellbeing, road safety, and property damage prevention.
    4. AI solutions for weather prediction and sudden weather events.
    5. All insurtech startups.

 

Żabka Group - challenges

1. PRODUCTS AND SERVICES (ONLINE AND OFFLINE)

New products & services to expand on our convenience ecosystem in areas of health, entertainment, betting, financial and insurance services.

Modern convenience foods such as: nutrition products (especially for school-aged children), nutritious snacks, dietary supplements, functional beverages & snacks.

2. FOODSERVICE & STREET-FOOD SOLUTIONS

Increase the attractiveness of our offer, improve the quality of service and increase operational efficiency in foodservice and our street-food offering. We are looking for innovations in: systems, processes, equipment, self-service facilities and food storage.

3. SALES AND MARKETING

Solutions aimed to: increase and optimise sales in-store, foster better business decision making and innovative in-store marketing. Mechanisms and products that support customer loyalty and influence positive daily habits and routines.

4. MOBILE APP/PHYGITAL

Engaging our customers in mobile app and physical stores. Creating & fostering community of dedicated customers through gamification and new technologies.

5. RETAIL TECHNOLOGIES

Disruptive solutions to transform the traditional retail with the help of new technologies i.e. AR/VR, IOT, blockchain, payment solutions, ESL.

6. NEW BUSINESS VERTICALS

Exploring and developing new business verticals that fit within our modern convenience strategy and further expand our ecosystem.

PKO BP - challenges

PKO BP is seeking solutions to meet the needs of the bank’s many customer groups and to support the organization in its transformation.  In particular, the bank is looking for solutions that:

  • will enrich the bank’s offer to young users (aged 13 and over);
  • allow the bank to offer additional services that will enrich the bank’s services, including from the mobile application;
  • Solutions for VR/AR/XR;
  • GreenFinance.

At the same time, PKO BP is looking for solutions applicable within the organization, including:

  • Digitalization of claims handling processes;
  • Automation of internal processes;
  • development of remote channels;
  • employee benefits.

Rossmann - challenges

People & Culture Solution

We are looking for a tool that will help structure the onboarding process and allow us to easily design an employee’s career development, from monitoring competence development to planning a set of trainings. The solution should also include monitoring the fulfillment of formal obligations arising from labor law.

Building the Drugstore of the Future

We are looking for tools that will create a personalized omnichannel shopping experience. We are looking for solutions that work both online and offline, for use in drugstores addressing, for example, the possibility of purchasing or checking information about the full product range of Rossmann. We want to support decision-making, make it easier to move around the drugstore while relieving our staff. The solutions should support all customers, avoiding digital exclusion.

Improving e-commerce experiences

We are looking for solutions that will improve the quality of customer experiences in the Rossmann online store, from reaching customers, through the entire purchase process and the stage of receiving the order from the courier or in the drugstore. We are looking for both online and offline solutions with MarTech, Industry 4.0, Logistics and others supporting this process.

Zduńska Wola - challenges

Cyber Security

We are looking for solutions to increase the level of cyber security in the city and to protect the data of residents and businesses in Zdunska Wola. The area of interest also includes technologies to repel cyber attacks to which the public administration is exposed in the current geopolitical situation. As part of the challenge, we are also looking for solutions to increase citizens' awareness and knowledge of cyber security.

Rainwater channels

We are looking for technology that will allow us to inventory technical data on rainwater channels and drainage ditches and monitor their filling status. Based on the data, the local government should be able to estimate the necessary materials and the cost of repairs in case of failure.

Attractive city app

We are looking for solutions that will create an attractive city application that will allow us to integrate existing solutions, such as reporting faults, checking public transportation schedules and making medical appointments. The city also aims to increase users of three types of Zduńska Wola cards.

CPI Property Group - challenges

Digitalization of building documentation

We are looking for a solution that will enable secure and fast digitization and archiving of building documentation, which will be carried out directly at the facility to which the documentation relates. The solution should provide quick, easy and intuitive access to the archived documents.

Joanna Kozioł

Project Manager/ Innovation Specialist

Joanna joined Huge Thing in 2024. As an Interim Innovation Specialist she is responsible for cooperation with bigger organisations in the area of innovations management.

Her professional experience is based on academia and R&D projects related to Disaster Risk Reduction and safety engineering. Moreover last year she decided to switch industry and entered the “innovative” ecosystem of start-ups and acceleration which inspires her more and more.

She is a huuuge fan of city breaks and the art of cafe hopping.

Alior Bank - challenges

Omnichannel

We search for solutions which can help us to provide the best possible customerexperience for our clients, regardless of the chosen customer service channel. The solutions should provide seamless connection between various channels (mobile app, phone-calls, branches etc.)

Main digital relationship

We search for solutions which can intensify customers’ engagement in our banking mobile app. We want to provide new, innovative functions and value-added services for our customers and encourage them to use our mobile app more frequently. The solutions should address our clients’ needs on daily basis or help us to improve banking processes inside the app to make it more engaging. New functionalities and services can be implemented on-premise or using mobile SDK.

EIT InnoEnergy

EIT InnoEnergy is looking for solutions in the following areas:

  • Hydrogen Economy Equipment
  • Water Tech
  • Raw materials (mining efficiency & impact)
  • Point source carbon capture
  • Biogenic CO2 (BECCS: carbon capturing, removal, and storage)
  • Decarbonization of industrial heat
  • Aluminum value chain & aluminum-air batteries
  • Heavy road transport electrification
  • Digital solutions (smart grid and energy consumption management)
  • Textile recycling

Saint Gobain - challenges

Efficient and ecological recovery of flat glass

We are looking for solutions to recover as much flat glass as possible in a safe manner. We are not limited to the technology used, but at the same time we want a solution that is environmentally friendly and does not use toxic chemicals.

Waste glass collection technology

We are looking for solutions that can be used in manufacturing plants to collect flat glass waste generated during the production and handling of glass products. We want to automate the process of cleaning glass cullet that can be reused in the production process. Consider that the distance between the floor and the production line at the lowest point is 60 cm.

Laminated glass production process

We are looking for solutions to identify bottlenecks on a laminated glass production line . The line handles the production of different types of glass, with different process parameters. The purpose of the test is to improve the efficiency of production by minimizing the duration of its various stages, based on information obtained from the system planned for implementation.

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Marketing strategy for startups

Kuba Radzikowski

Marketing Strategy Consultant

PZU

We are looking for:

    • Technologies supporting PZU in insurance prevention and mitigation of life, health and property insurance risks for individual and corporate customers, this includes solutions that support physical and mental prevention;
    • Technologies which will support call center workers in their everyday job – simplify their job and reduce the risk of errors;
    • Ideas and technologies that will help our distribution partnersto increase sales and improve workflow. These solutions can include development of alternative sales channels and improvements in the process.
    • Actuarial solutions for risk assessment and pricing excellence in motor insurance
       
    We aim not only to respond to development in insurtech but also to stay ahead of these trends. PZU is looking for startups operating in various areas, particularly in insurtech, advanced analytics solutions, digitalization, and new customer interactions.
  • Ozmen Center for Entrepreneurship

    The Ozmen Center for Entrepreneurship of the University of Nevada, Reno was founded in 2014 by a gift from Eren and Fatih Ozmen. Headquartered in Sparks, NV, Sierra Nevada Corporation is a privately held company under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer, Fatih Ozmen and President, Eren Ozmen. SNC-owned Sierra Space has been tasked by NASA to build a Dream Chaser Space Plane.Ozmen Center’s goals are to focus on the development of entrepreneurial skills, improve northern Nevada’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and attract high- growth tech companies from all over the world to successfully land and succeed in the US with a help of our mentors & entrepreneurs in residence. Our major initiatives include an international startup school, Sontag Entrepreneurship Competition, LaunchNevada, International Women’s Entrepreneurship Symposium, IREX Global Solutions Sustainability Challenge, and Aerospace and Defense Academy.

    Jagoda Bujno

    Junior Communication Specialist

    Jagoda joined Huge Thing in 2024 as part of the communication team. She’s responsible for creating content, managing social media channels, and supporting marketing activities to ensure consistent and engaging communication. She also takes care of the visual side of Huge Thing’s materials and supports the team in organizing events and building relationships with partners.

    What she enjoys most about her work is telling good stories and connecting with people both online and offline :)

    Before joining Huge Thing, she was involved in projects related to the Erasmus+ program. Outside of work, you’ll probably find her planning her next trip, taking care of her houseplants (there’s a lot of them), or with a book in hand.

    Katarzyna Maryanska

    Program Manager

    Kasia joined Huge Thing in 2024 and strengthened the acceleration team.
    Together with Maria and Mateusz she creates and leads acceleration programs and creates the startup environment.

    Before joining the Huge Thing team, she gained experience in other startups organizations such as Business Link, Digital Knowledge Observatory and Startup Academy, where she was responsible for coordinating incubation, acceleration projects and community events.

    Huuuuge fan of Erasmus + project (especially related to gamification and visual thinking topics). During her spare time she enjoys low cost traveling, festivals, and good tea :)

    ACE.SG (Action Community for Entrepreneurship)

    ACE.SG (Action Community for Entrepreneurship) is the national voice for the Singapore startup ecosystem, and a key trade association representing the interests of startups in Singapore. Working closely with the Government and startups, ACE.SG aims to promote entrepreneurship, catalyse new growth opportunities, scale startups and build champion enterprises.

    ACE.SG was established in 2003 by the Singapore Ministry of Trade and Industry, and re-launched as a private sector-led, non-profit organisation in 2014. ACE.SG’s Patron is Dr Tan See Leng, Minister for Manpower and Second Minister for Trade and Industry.

    ACE.SG constantly seeks to build a vibrant and sustainable startup ecosystem in Singapore, and focuses on five key pillars: Startups, Corporations, Institutes of Higher Learning, Risk Capital, and Public Sector. As the driving force behind Singapore as an Innovation Island, ACE.SG is creating a virtual and physical space where ideas, knowledge, and capabilities are transformed into value efficiently.

    QUAY Acceleration

    Quay Acceleration is dedicated to designing, building, and launching accelerator programs that serve the needs of entrepreneurs and drive out-come driven results. We achieve this through partnering with government agencies, domestic and international, as well as institutions and universities to develop programming that supports these partners in their economic development goals.

    CIC Innovation Campus

    CIC is a global leader in building and operating innovation campuses that support the growth of entrepreneurs and startups. Founded in 1999 with a single location in Kendall Square, the company now operates more than 1 million square feet of shared workspace, wet labs, and event space in the US, Europe, and Asia. Its collaborative work environments support thousands of individuals in the for-profit and nonprofit sectors who are focused on innovating solutions to local and global problems. As part of the Go Global program, CIC offers customized packages to meet startups at their stage of growth and global exploration. Learn more at cic.com.

    Veolia Poland - challenges

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    Reporting tool for salespeople

    We are looking for an extensive online tool in the area of reporting for salespeople, which will have the following functions: location, meeting opening, meeting closing, checklist of sales steps and good practices. Thanks to which the salesman will avoid time-consuming reporting after visits to customers, better supervision and control of the quality of the salesman’s work.

    Offer configurator

    We are looking for an offer configurator – a tool for salespeople that will be used during the meeting and guarantees ease of making offers of many products from the mix of energy efficiency, electricity, gas, total waste management, services, etc. The solution should also be able to be hosted on Veolia.pl to ensure customers self-service by unchecking data, selecting products and preparing a “preliminary” offer, which includes benefits and costs.

    Management of distributed heat sources (off-grid heat) platform

    We are looking for a solution to measure the exact parameters of the building and estimate how much heat energy should be supplied. We will obtain results on the balance of energy demand (in water- domestic hot water and central heating) from distributed heat sources, i.e.: cogeneration solutions in a hydronic hybrid system (PH (heat pumps), CHP (cogeneration of heat and electricity), photovoltaic panels, gas boilers, tanks (buffers, storage tanks) of domestic hot water and with the use of heat storage) and additional information on the possible benefits/savings that may result from the use of these heat sources.

    Recycling of plastic waste

    We are seeking management solutions for soft PVC waste, on a polyester matrix.

    Berlin Innovation Agency​ is a boutique transformation studio and academy. We partner with organizations of all sizes to create bespoke learning, change, and innovation journeys.

    We have an extensive track-record supporting entrepreneurs, having accelerated +80 startups through our own accelerator programs: Future City, Future Health, and ClimateX Accelerators. In addition to open-cohort startup programs, we create customized learning journeys based on the challenges and needs of our customers.

    Our learning formats include interactive masterclasses, coaching, as well applicable and actionable workshops (including compact and/or multi-day Bootcamps, Blueprints, Design Sprints, etc.). In the startup acceleration realm, our services cover the entire acceleration span – from ideation to investment readiness, expansion and growth (see comprehensive list below). Additionally, we also support our clients with stakeholder mapping, market analysis, soft landing (incl. event organization, placement and introductions), and more.

    Starta Capital

    Starta.vc is a New York-based venture ecosystem that includes three early-stage VC funds, a co-investment platform for angel investors, and acceleration & immersion programs for startups and scale-ups. Its flagship batches run twice a year in the New York office. In addition, Starta also runs four associate programs annually in collaboration with some of the Ivy League and top schools around the world.

    This in-person program takes place in both New York and Silicon Valley and focuses on entering and validating the US market, as well as building a strong client and investor network. It’s an ideal option for companies looking to establish sales, launch pilot projects, fundraise, and gain a comprehensive understanding of the US ecosystem. Key focus areas include market research and competitive analysis, hands-on work on building a client pipeline, identifying grant opportunities, setting up an effective investor outreach campaign, guidance on incorporation and business immigration, and legal advice on fundraising tools and processes. The program also emphasizes in-person connections, featuring multiple networking events per week and two Investor Showcases (Demo Days), one in Silicon Valley and one in New York. Duration options are 12 weeks or 6 weeks.

    The program also emphasizes in-person connections, featuring multiple networking events per week and two Investor Showcases (Demo Days), one in Silicon Valley and one in New York. Duration options are 12 weeks or 6 weeks.

    Maria Tyka-Majewska

    Acceleration Lead

    Expert in creating innovation and acceleration programs. As a member of the Huge Thing team, she is responsible for the creation and coordination of acceleration programs and direct cooperation with startups.

    Before joining the Huge Thing team, she gained experience at the Polish Agency for Enterprise Development, Startup Academy and the Polish Development Fund, where she was responsible for coordinating incubation and acceleration projects.

    Italian and Spanish cuisine enthusiast.

    Olga Dzieciątkowska

    Innovation Manager

    Olga joined Huge Thing in 2024 and strengthened the consulting team. Together with Maryla, Magda and Asia she supports large organizations (both private and public) in processes related to innovation.

    Before joining Huge Thing, Olga was driving the adoption of digital and innovative solutions across the city of Poznan. As the Coordinator and Inventor of Poznan CityLab she managed the City App and Open Data Platform and championed projects aimed at empowering digital skills.

    Her focus extends to digital health and education, advocating for civic education and the concept of smart cities, particularly among the youth. As a certified city guide, she leverages her deep understanding of Poznań’s urban landscape to foster sustainable development by integrating local businesses, NGOs, and public sector into the city’s growth initiatives.

    Alongside her work with Huge Thing, Olga is also a Local Officer in the European Commission’s 100 ICC Initiative and an Urban Policy Expert on electric cargo bikes in a project with the Adam Mickiewicz University.

    She is an occasional triathlete and half-marathoner, a dedicated yogi, and a passionate Iga Świątek fan.

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    Wkrótce otrzymasz Playbook na podany adres email.

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    Magda Stachowiak

    Project Manager

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    Dziękujemy za wypełnienie formularza.

    Kontakt
    Sektor publiczny

    Magda Stachowiak

    Project Manager

    Download this resource

    In order to download this resource, we ask you to fill a form. After that you’ll receive the download link diretcly to your inbox!

    Download this resource

    In order to download this resource, we ask you to fill a form. After that you’ll receive the download link diretcly to your inbox!

    Maryla Wojcieszek

    Head of Knowledge, Head of Innovation Management & Strategy, Change Manager

    As the Head of Innovation Management & Strategy, Maryla supports large organizations in innovation-related processes. This includes, among others: creating innovation management strategies, structuring the work of innovation teams and facilitating effective cooperation with startups. Additionally, as Head of Knowledge, she’s responsible for knowledge management within the Huge Thing team. She is also a designer and workshop facilitator. On behalf of Huge Thing, Maryla cooperates with brands such as Rossmann, Tetos, Żabka, Novartis, Saint-Gobain, Veolia and the Zduńska Wola City Hall. She’s also a co-host of a podcast focused on innovation-related topics – Huge Talks by Huge Thing, created together with Mam Startup and Google for Startups.

    Maryla is an experienced designer of (public) programs supporting startup ecosystem in Poland. She has co-created, among others, Scale UP – the first public acceleration program connecting startups and corporations.

    A gardener and a LEGO fan.

    Download this resource

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    Mateusz Szymański

    Program Manager

    Tech and innovation enthusiasts, especially those with positive social impact, Greentech, and health tech solutions. In Huge Thing, Mateusz is responsible for co-running acceleration programs. In 2022 he was co-running the 12th edition of the Google for Startups pre-acceleration program. 

    Previously he worked in the sales and product departments, where he was responsible for outreach activities and product communication. He’s also gained experience in project coordination and internal communication, working as a Spokesperson for Poznań’s department of NGO organization The Polish Forum of Young Diplomats. He was a co-creator of the social campaign “Paragraphs without blunder” which mission was to educate high school students about their rights.

    During his spare time, he likes to read about international politics and the economy. Strategic games enjoyer. He’ll surely like to play chess with you.

    Magda Stachowiak

    Project Manager

    Magda joined Huge Thing in 2021. Responsible for our Gov Tech inno_Lab acceleration programs and cooperation with the public administration. She runs projects for smart city. She is also responsible for building bridges between innovators – corporations, startups and the administration.

    Previously, since 2015, she cooperated on our projects for Gov Tech and corporations. Connected with the Poznań Startup Community. Experience in organizing events for the MedTech community. She worked in advertising and interactive agencies, creating brand campaigns and loyalty programs. She helped implement technologies into the organization.

    Passionate about personal development, psychobiology, and supporting women in creating businesses. The creator of the projects Kobiecy Poznań Przebudzenie and Joy of Life.

    Damian Wielechowski

    Senior Marketing and Communication Manager

    Damian manages the external and internal communications of SpeedUp Group, including Huge Thing. He joined the team in 2017 and since then has been working with business representatives, business environment institutions, public administration, media, and the academic community.

    In addition to activities related to Speedup Group, Damian supports the fund’s portfolio companies in the area of marketing and PR. He has served on the jury of many competitions, including ImpactCEE, and acted as a mentor at startup events such as hackathons and Startup Weekend.

    Damian is also the author of the Poznan Startup Guide and co-author of the Krakow Startup Guide, as well as organizer of many events dedicated to startups and investors.

    Natalia Litman

    Delivery Lead, Senior Program Manager

    Natalia joined Huge Thing in 2019. As a Senior Program Manager, she implements acceleration and educational programs (Poland Prize, PlusJeden do Rozwoju) in line with Huge Thing’s standards.

    As a Delivery Lead, she focuses on the operation of Huge Thing as an organization, financial issues, team planning, and quality of activities carried out by the company. Natalia loves to sail around Masuria and Croatia, and on gray days eats sushi and watches tennis.

    Monika Synoradzka

    CEO of Huge Thing, Innovation Strategist, Change Manager

    Monika specializes in developing and implementing innovation strategies within organizations, as well as building a culture of innovation across companies from various sectors. Since 2012, she has been associated with the VC fund group SpeedUp Group, and till 2025, she was a Partner at the funds. 

    She is an experienced facilitator, innovation readiness researcher, and innovation strategist. I have worked with organizations such as (among others) Rossmann, Żabka Polska, Novartis, Atlas Ward, and TETOS. 

    After hours, I’m huge book lover and co-create Bookowski – independent Bookstores located in Poznań.

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    Preparing the resources

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