Preliminary thematic scope

MAIN THEMES

Europe under pressure

Europe's geopolitical agency in times of superpower rivalry. Joint strategies or national interests in the relationship with Russia, China, or the United States. The boundaries of European solidarity in key issues: Ukraine, energy security, migration, defence, technologies, raw materials. The European economy and industry – competitiveness and independence. New allies, joint investments, the role of Europe in the world. The significance of Poland and the region in developing political and economic architecture. Poland in G20 – prestige, commitment, influence.

Sovereignty and competitiveness

Limiting dependence on imports of raw materials, fuels, technologies, food, and drugs – striving for independence in critical sectors. The potential of industry, science, and innovation. Diversification and the shortening of the supply chain. Nearshoring, European and local business in critical investments and the most prominent and promising industries. New models of Europe's cooperation with global economies. Innovations, digitalisation, and automation as key competitive advantages.

Resilience and security

Navigating the geopolitical, economic, and climate turmoil: creating common safety in the European Union and its member states. The development of industrial cooperation and investment in defence: joint security and defence politics. Resilient infrastructure and military readiness. Energy security. Coordinated crisis response – cybersecurity, supply chains, public health.

Energy, transition, investments

Energy transition as an investment in growth and independence. The EU’s pace of development and ambitions relative to national economies of the member states. The new power industry – renewable energy sources, nuclear, energy storage, flexible systems, digitalisation, decentralized means of power generation. The impact of energy transition on energy prices and the competitiveness of EU’s industry. Large investment programmes in power generation and grid infrastructure; local content. Innovations and technologies.

Digitalisation and technologies of tomorrow

Breakthrough technological trends. Data as fuel for the new economy. Artificial intelligence – a technology that will change everything. Automation, robotisation. Cybersecurity. The digitalisation of manufacturing, power industry, and administration. The space industry and orbital technologies. Digital transition vs. labour market, education, and competences of the future.

Human, development, balance

Human as a subject of economic and technological transition. Education, science and innovations as drivers for growth. The need for new competencies in times of digital and climate transition. Labour market of the future – automation, artificial intelligence, flexible models of employment. Demographics and migration. Health, social security, quality of life, and cohesion. Sustainable growth and solidarity as the pillars of resilient society.

TRACK: EUROPE, GEOPOLITICS, STRATEGIES

Europe in the world

The role of Europe in a world mired in conflict, rivalry, and tension. The European Union's approach to superpowers – its initiative, assertiveness and subjectivity in international politics. The role of Central European countries in designing the continent’s political and economic architecture. Resilience, competitiveness and re-industrialisation as the sources of Europe’s strength. Security and energy independence. Cybersecurity and technological sovereignty. Can Europe become a union of security?

Poland in G20

Poland’s prestige and image in the world. The impact of Poland’s admission to G20 on global politics, trade, GDP, investments, and labour market. Joint investments; following best practice of other members of G20. Poland's voice in the debate on energy transition, digitalisation, economic security, and climate. Possibilities of shaping the global agenda.

Central Europe as the industrial base of the European Union

The strategic role of Central and Eastern Europe in the geopolitics and economy of the European Union. Cooperation between other countries in the region and their common position in the EU forum. Central and Eastern Europe’s industrial potential, energy structure, logistics, and place in the supply chain. The resilience of Central European economies, the development of their defence industry, and the security of the EU’s external borders.

The war in Ukraine

The impact of the ongoing war on European and global economies, logistics, trade, as well as economic and energy security. The situation of Ukraine: the military, political, and economic aspect. Chances of ending the conflict. Conditions required for starting a peace process – the role and voice of Europe. The contribution of Poland and the region to logistics and humanitarian aid.

The reconstruction of Ukraine

The scale of destruction, challenges, and economic opportunities. The reconstruction of transport, energy, and housing infrastructure. Priorities in the reconstruction of Ukraine’s economy. Ukraine’s integration with the EU market. The share of private equity, financial institutions, and international organisations. Investment security, legal framework, guarantees. What can Poland and other regional countries gain from rebuilding Ukraine and establishing economic partnership with the country.

The role of state in economy

What society expects of the state. The role of the legislator, the strategic investor, and the owner. The impact of regulation on entrepreneurship, business environment, taxes, and employment. Deregulation and the quality of legal solutions in an economic context. Conditions of the state’s involvement in key sectors of the economy (security, infrastructure, energy). Stability, creating growth, and equal opportunities in a free market for all its participants.

Demographics and development

A crisis or a demographic transition? Changes. In the age structure, it is one of the most critical developmental problems and a key factor modelling the future of: the economy and market, market and consumption, investment and infrastructure, development and use of technologies, management of human resources, finance and the role of state, the sector of public services, social relationships and culture. Current demographic forecasts and accumulating effects of an ageing society. Adapting the economy and social life to the changing age structure. Responses to the demographic shift in long-term strategies of companies and states. Using resources, work, and technological potential, new models of economic growth taking into account the demographic shift.

TRACK: ENERGY TRANSITION

Transition – energy for the economy

Profound transition of the energy mix – where are we and what do we need? The role and strategy of Poland's major players in the energy sector. How can energy transition fuel economic growth and provide energy security at the same time? Demand for renewable energy vs. the stability of the system and energy security. Major investment programs and their impact on the development of industry and innovations. Digitalisation, decentralisation, and infrastructure modernisation. Distributed power generation and its assumed role in the energy mix.

Prices of energy

The cost of energy for industry and economy. Legislation defining the competitiveness and stability of the system. Volatile prices and geopolitical uncertainty present new challenges to investors. How to achieve the stability of energy market without compromising green investments?

Energy mix, system, security

Energy transition – developing renewable energy sources, nuclear power capabilities, and energy storage without throwing the energy system off balance. The share of coal in the energy mix has decreased, posing a threat to the stability of energy prices and energy distribution. How fast, and in what way, can coal be replaced with renewable energy sources, gas, or nuclear power? Challenges of the transition: modernising the grid, managing the demand, and integrating new energy sources. The modernisation of the energy sector as a factor in national security.

Green technologies and investments in the power industry

The development of renewable energy sources, energy storage, other technologies for the power industry and their integration with the current system. Opportunities for local communities and industry. Technologies and investment strategies that accelerate the transition and improve energy security.

Local content in the power industry

Large investments in Poland's power industry and their potential impact on the country’s economy. The share of Polish companies in the supply chain and critical projects. Competences, know-how, cooperation with investors. Legislation increasing the share of domestic entities in investment programs and the question of their compliance with the principles of free market.

Investments in the grid

Modernising the energy transmission and distribution grid in the context of the development of renewable energy sources, nuclear power, and offshore wind. The scale of projects and their significance for the economy. Energy storage infrastructure. The resilience and flexibility of the power system relative to the country's energy security. Local content in investments in the grid, their financing, the development of competencies and a track record for international expansion.

Critical Energy Infrastructure

The security of generation, transmission and distribution infrastructure – its vulnerability to crises and acts of aggression. Entities related to infrastructure that is critical to the state. Investments and modernisation projects that are needed to increase the resilience of the energy system. Cyber threats prevention.

The Fuel Market

The Polish market of fuels after structural changes. Investments and allies vs. fuel security. The impact of prices volatility, geopolitical uncertainty and energy transition on the condition and possibilities of Polish businesses. Problems with the diversification of energy sources and challenges presented by energy storage, distribution infrastructure and the adoption of international and climate-related legislation.

Nuclear power

Poland’s progress on the development of nuclear power. The impact of Poland’s first nuclear power plant on the country’s  energy security and its ambition to reduce its carbon emissions. The schedule and challenges. How to secure long-term financing for nuclear projects? The safety protocol. Key decisions in selecting partners for the construction of a second nuclear power plant. Integrating nuclear power with Poland's energy system.

Small Atom in the System

The place of SMR technology in the state’s energy policy. The potential role of SMR in balancing Poland's energy system. How mature the technology is and what are the prospects of its adoption; costs and models of financing. Small modular reactors as a source of stable, flexibly available, and zero-emission energy; their application in heat and power generation, industry, and local energy systems. Legislative hurdles, security, the need for national technological competences. The interest of major players and opportunities for new suppliers of the technology. 

Local Content in the Nuclear Power Industry

The potential of the Polish industry for pursuing the country’s nuclear programme. Participation in designing, building and maintaining a nuclear power plant; creating jobs and developing specialized competences for hi-tech. The possibility of Poland’s industry becoming a permanent link in the supply chain of nuclear power. Certificates and the qualification of suppliers; training personnel and developing quality systems. The role of the state and surrounding institutions. The transfer of knowledge and technology.

On-shore Wind – Efficiency and Barriers

On-shore wind as an element of energy transition and a factor in energy independence. Investors, plans, and projects. Integration with the energy system. The efficiency of on-shore wind – investment costs, financial support, legislation; social and environmental challenges. Prospects for the development of the sector – its impact on prices and the market and its role in the assumed energy mix.

Off-shore Wind – Potential, Development, Challenges

Off-shore wind – potential, logistical and infrastructural challenges, the cost of a wind farm and its environmental impact. The progress and financing of off-shore wind, cooperation with the ship-building industry and transmission infrastructure. Local content in off-shore wind; best practice, the possibility of increasing scale at later stages. Competences, staff, labour market.

Transition of District Heating

The role of renewable energy sources, natural gas, biomass and heat pumps in decarbonising and modernizing district heating systems. Electrification, integration with renewable energy sources and the energy system, heat storage. Laws regulating the heat generation sector – changes implemented under the EU's climate policy and domestic legislation. Chief obstacles in the path of modern, low-emission district heating: insufficient financing, unpredictable legislation, high costs for receivers.

Biogas and Alternative Fuels

Biogas and biomethane as locally available, distributed sources of energy, both in transport and the grid. The current potential and prospects for the sector. The use of agricultural and communal waste. The development of alternative fuels production – biomethane, biohydrogen, synthetic fuels. The need for predictable legislation and support for investment. The significance of biogas and biomethane for energy security and circular economy.

Hydrogen and Hydrogen Economy

Hydrogen as an energy carrier in the process of decarbonisation. Its application in industry, transport, and energy storage. The hydrogen market in Poland and Europe – infrastructure and certification. Are high costs the main barrier? Integrating hydrogen with the energy and industry system.

Gas as a Source of Power and Heat

Natural gas as a transitional fuel, its significance for the security of supply and the stability of the energy system. The development of gas-fired heating and power plants in the face of climate legislation. Investment in the country: the location, the scale, the role in the system, conditions of economic viability. The risk of long-term dependence on fuel supply. The possibility of gradually replacing natural gas with biomethane and hydrogen.

E-mobility

Mass e-mobility – conditions for development in the next decade. The electrification of transport in relation to demand for green energy. The density of charging infrastructure, its integration with the power grid, and necessary investment.

Energy efficiency

Efficient management of energy in the light of legislation and in everyday business practice. Energy intensity in ESG strategies – to what extent does reducing energy demand accelerate the achievement of the goal of sustainable development? Directions and models of investing, financing tools, available technologies. The business potential of solutions aimed at increasing energy efficiency. Integrating renewable energy sources with smart energy management systems. Optimising consumption and reducing costs while continuing generation. Staff dedication and culture of saving. The impact of energy efficiency on the value of assets, relationships with investors, and the image of a company.

Nuclear power – a new opening

Nuclear power, investments, technologies: in the world, in Europe, and in Poland. The scale of investments – their significance for changes in the energy mix, energy sovereignty, economic competitiveness, and progress on energy transition. Prospects of nuclear projects in the face of volatile geopolitics. The international experience and EU policy in terms of nuclear power; how to utilize global know-how and EU legislation to safely develop nuclear power facilities. Effective, scalable, safe – the nuclear technologies of today. Power from nuclear power plants in the European market.

TRACK: INDUSTRY. COMPETITIVENESS

Industry for a Time of Crisis

Industrial production in the context of geopolitics and global mega trends. Disrupted supply chains. Sustainable production, emissions, green technologies. Access to stable energy in affordable prices. Digitalisation, automation and robotisation of production – a response to current and future challenges. Re-industrialisation, the protection of European capital, production close to the border as a factor in economic sovereignty.

Critical Raw Materials

The significance of access to raw materials in the global economy: technological development, defence, and economic resilience. The situation of European countries in the context of the superpowers’ raw-material policies.Is Europe going to invest in critical raw materials outside of the European Union? How to maintain one’s independence in case of future diplomatic and geopolitical crises. Waste – a source of valuable raw material. Industrial recycling of strategic raw materials could increase Europe's independence.

Local Content

Protection of the domestic market and a country's share in investment – different faces of local content. How to maintain the right balance between open market and protection of one's strategic interest? Re-polonisation without isolation – a chance for a market leap for smaller enterprises. The “multiplier effect”: branches and sectors of the economy with a high potential share of local content – a factor in the economy’s resilience and independence. Local content and the system of public procurement. Developing local supply chains – security and added value. Models of cooperation: combining potential, establishing consortia, exchanging experience, competencies and know-how. Relationships with investors and foreign contractors – best practice, standards and tactics of “entering” large projects.

Industry and Innovations

The willingness of industrial companies to adopt innovation: investment, cooperation, risk. The industry-science and industry-startup relationship. Industrial companies’ research and development programmes, the sharing of research results, cooperation, and broad commercialisation.

The Iron and Steel Industry

The condition of the iron and steel industry in Poland and the EU in light of current legislation, the cost of energy, competition from outside of the EU, and market protection. Investment in specialized manufacturing of steel products. Steel production vs. the needs of defence industry.

The Automotive Industry

China's offensive in the production of electric vehicles. The EU customs policy, protection of the European single market, and technical legislation – can they prove effective? Strategies and the assumed place of European manufacturers. Prospects for the European and Polish automotive industry. ICE, electric or mild hybrid cars – prospects for their development, profitability, new technological trends in automotive.

Automotive and E-mobility

The European market for electric and hybrid cars – demand, producers, beneficiaries. The electrification of road transport. Charging infrastructure – availability, density, the pace of development. The need for a systemic approach to recycling. Personal e-mobility – major trends, limitations, prospects.

The Aviation and Space Industry

Production for aviation, space industry and the sector of unmanned aircraft – demand in a global scale. The significance of drones and satellite system for defence, logistics, and monitoring, Opportunities for developing specialized capabilities, benefiting from the economic situation, developing groundbreaking technologies, innovations, and competences. Can Poland become a link in Europe’s “space chain of value”? Limitations: investment costs, environmental legislation, safety requirements, the availability of components.

Power for industry

The role of energy-intensive industries in achieving economic sovereignty. The increasing pressure exerted by energy prices and unpredictable environmental legislation – their impact on the competitiveness of European businesses. Solutions supporting energy-intensive manufacturing in national economic policies. A treaty for clean industry, CBAM – between declarations and reality. Adaptive efforts of companies: purchasing strategies, technologies, investment. Improving the efficiency of manufacturing – tools, software, financing. The role of renewable energy sources and energy auto-generation.

Mining of the future

The impact of the transition in the sector of bituminous coal and brown coal mining on regional economies and local communities. Challenges of retraining and adapting former employees of the mining industry to the current labour market. Maintaining and transferring unique competencies and know-how to other fields: circular economy, sourcing and processing critical raw materials and REE from waste, reuse of mining waste. Innovative solutions supporting sustainable use of resources. How to maximise the value of mining experience in new industrial and energy projects? Manufacturers and providers serving the mining sector in a new market situation – directions and effects of utilizing their potential.

Space industry

Space is becoming the new critical infrastructure and part of the global economy. Satellites, Earth observing systems, orbital communication and rocket technologies – their significance for security, the economy, and climate. Polish competencies in the space tech sector and Poland’s place in the global chain of value of the space economy – from suppliers of components to operators of orbital data. Polish industry in the segment of micro satellites and nano satellites. New business models: from Earth observation to “space data as a service”. Financing space projects – how to use funds of the ESA, Horizon Europe, and private investments? Cooperation with the ESA as an opportunity for Polish enterprises and a stimulus for regional development.

TRACK: ECONOMY, CLIMATE, THE ENVIRONMENT

Challenges of the Climate Policy

The current goal of climate neutrality for the EU – its consequences depending on each country's characteristics, energy mix, and stage of development. What legislative tools will shape the European economy in the coming years? Is it possible to achieve climate neutrality without damaging the competitiveness of the European economy? Market protection, support for industry, funding for investment, time needed to adapt. The approach of the EU to its global partners in terms of pro-environmental activity, undisrupted competition and possible cooperation.

Equal Before the Environment

Unequal financial capabilities and emissions of different countries give rise to questions about equality in fighting the climate change. Should developed countries increase their financial support for developing countries undergoing energy transition? The mechanisms of redistribution under the EU and the UN (e.g. Climate Finance, Loss & Damage Fund). Will the current system of support bridge the “green North-South divide”?

Green Financing

New financial mechanisms accelerating the transition – the EU taxonomy, the Modernisation Funds. New possibilities, rules, and limitations. Smaller companies’ access to financing. ESG reporting requirements and high investment thresholds. Does green financing actually support the transition?

ESG: Requirements, Strategy, Results

Reporting on the environmental impact of economic activity in light of current EU legislation. The experience of companies that report on emissions, their environmental impact, and decarbonise their supply chains. The effect of such activity on image, the environment, and the market. ESG versus investment and competitiveness. ESG as a test for companies: consistency with business strategy, building trust, and gaining competitive advantage.

Green Economy

Transition to low-emission economy as a driver for economic growth and an opportunity to develop new industries. What sectors could become the pillars of a new economy? In what way can public policies and financing (EU funds, private investment) stimulate innovation and create jobs in green industries?

Circular Economy

The assumptions of circular economy relative to business models and cases of implementation – insights from actions to date. The increasing prices of raw materials and their scarcity as an impulse for recycling and resource efficiency. In what way can enterprises transition from linear to circular production, without damaging their competitiveness? Technological, legal, administrative, and mental barriers in transitioning to the circular economy.

Communal Waste

New legislation, local policies, investment and technologies in communal waste management. The deposit-refund system, packaging waste, circular economy, extended producer responsibility. Increasing costs, debatable effectiveness. Pursuing EU recycling targets and reducing landfilling. The investment needed in recycling and sorting infrastructure. Models of effective cooperation between municipal waste management companies and the private sector.

Waste and Energy

Waste as a resource and source of affordable renewable energy. Its use in industry and potential application in district heating. The development of waste incineration infrastructure – the current and targeted capability. Using municipal waste to generate heat and power in relation to principles of the circular economy. Competition for recycling or a rational element of balancing?

Just Transition

Closing coal mines and coal-fired power stations – a social and economic challenge for regions. How to effectively manage the transition so that it creates jobs and provides alternative sources of income? The role of EU funds, local government, and local initiatives. Examples of actions so far and their first results. Programmes and plans.

Water as a Strategic Resource

Structural drought, water scarcity – a growing problem. How to satisfy the needs of industry, agriculture, and households? Water retention and conservation – are we acting systematically? Technologies and investment that can reduce hydrological threats in the nearest decades.

Adaptation to Climate Change

So far, energy transition has aimed at reducing emissions; however, we have started to experience the consequences of climate change. How can states, regions, and cities adapt? How to combine preventive measures with investments in infrastructure? Adaptation as an investment in social and economic security.

Decarbonization of transport

Transport and logistics in the face of EU climate policy – an organizational and financial challenge. Carbon footprint reporting – the need for cooperation between carriers, logistics operators, infrastructure managers, and customers. The role of the state and European funds in supporting the transition. Practical aspects of the TSL sector transformation: technologies and innovations, tools and costs, barriers and effects. How to reconcile the decarbonization process and regulatory requirements while maintaining the competitiveness of the industry? The prospect of introducing ETS 2 – potential effects; how to prepare?

The deposit-refund system

How does the deposit-return system work and what needs to be done for it to be fully effective? Universality, simplicity, lack of exclusions. Who’s the payer, who's the earner – the cost of implementation for producers, retailers, and local government. The development of a logistics network, a management system, operators’ activities. The deposit-refund system vs. extended producer responsibility – the complementarity of both solutions. Consumer education and social aspects. Polish challenges and examples of good practice from Ireland, Germany, Scandinavia, and Benelux.

TRACK: SECURITY AND DEFENCE

The Defence Industry

From purchasing military equipment to developing its own military technologies, Poland is currently investing a lot in increasing its military capability. In the process, it faces a few critical challenges: the pace of modernisation, capital management, integration with the global supply chain, and strengthening its domestic manufacturing base. The modernisation and development of Poland’s defence capability as a force driving the development of its industry and economy. Domestic and EU funding. The consistency of Poland's activity with the new defence policy of the EU. European cooperation for increasing military potential.

The Role of the Private Sector as a Supplier of Materiel

More often than ever, private companies are expanding into defence, but they still face considerable obstacles in doing business in this industry – from certification to access to strategic projects. Using the potential of “dual use” – the industry's flexibility and ability to foster innovation. Conditions that the private sector must meet before it becomes a state’s partner in developing defence capability.

Economy on Standby

In times of geopolitical tension and hybrid threats, it is the army, the economy, and infrastructure that must be ready to deal with a crisis. This requires cooperation between the public and private sectors, digital logistics, actions aimed at ensuring security, resilience to attacks on power grids and transport networks, access to resources and the supply of raw materials. How to integrate industry, logistics and civilian infrastructure with the defence system so that the state is more resilient?

War and Technologies

New dimensions of a contemporary conflict: cyberspace, Earth's orbit, unmanned and autonomous systems. Drones and anti-drone systems, satellite observation, and the digital battlefield are critical deterrents. The role of qualified staff, digital competencies and international cooperation. The experience of the war in Ukraine and its use in the future. Plans for joint European action – the drone wall, drone-defence efforts of the Baltic states. Can Poland, as a country in the war’s rear, build its own defence-innovation ecosystem?

Cyber Threats – Administration under Pressure

More often than ever, state administration has become the target of digital attacks that might paralyse public services. Its vulnerabilities stem from inefficient cybersecurity funding, a shortage of qualified staff, complex procedures, and fragmented systems. Cooperation with the private sector and international partners has become critical, but coordination is sometimes lacking. How can we ensure data security and service continuity in the face of increasingly sophisticated cyber threats?

Cyber Threats – Critical Infrastructure

The growing scale of cyber attacks and threats to critical infrastructure (power grids, transport, telecommunication, or financial networks) that could paralyse the economy and compromise public safety. Connectivity and information as key infrastructural resources in a time of war and crisis. A lack of standards, gaps in data protection, insufficient emergency procedures. The need for consistent investment strategies, integrated legislation, and strengthened technological sovereignty. Systemic administrative measures, public–private cooperation, and threat monitoring. How to create more resilient infrastructure as well as digital and payment safety that serves the trust of users and citizens in a volatile reality?

TRACK: DIGITALISATION, TECHNOLOGIES, HUMAN

The State in the Age of Technology

Digital strategies of the Polish government (Digital Poland 2030, AI for Growth) shaping the framework of innovation, investment, and security. The state as the architect of an ecosystem where technology supports growth without overshadowing the human element. Cooperation with business and science, investments in digital infrastructure, competencies of the future, legislation regulating AI and cybersecurity. How can privacy be protected, security ensured and social values upheld given the rapid pace of technological advancement?

Artificial Intelligence – A New Revolution

AI is transforming everyday life, work, communication, and human relationships. It has ushered in a new order in the economy, the law, the media, and education. Where are we going? Who determines the path of AI evolution – the state, big tech companies, or scientists? Global and European legislation on generative AI. How can legislation minimise risk while preserving the potential for growth?

Artificial Intelligence in practice

Using AI-based tools in business practice across industries. An overview of implementations across use cases. Effects: optimisation of business processes, quality of the product, occupational safety, efficient management. The quality of data, inclusion in a company's structure and other conditions of effective implementation. AI agent, assistant, genAI: models of effective cooperation between employees, managers and AI tools. Staff and new competencies. Automation and support of decision-making.

Digitalising Industry

From automation and robotisation, through Industry 4.0, to Industry 5.0. The gap between digital leaders and SMEs. Key technological trends shaping the future of modern industrial production: their impact on economic efficiency, management, safety, and resilience. The motivation of investors, experience from cases of implementation, barriers, problems, evaluation, and new plans. Artificial intelligence in industrial practice: serious threats and a multitude of applications. Transferring resources to a virtual world – digital twins.

Economy of data and security

Data – the new fuel and currency. Big data as a foundation of business models, chains of value, and customer experience. The acquisition, collection, structuring, and utilisation of data: their significance for a modern economy. Data quality as a key factor in the effectiveness of AI. Access to data and their protection are key prerequisites of digital resilience of businesses.

Infrastructure for digitalisation – AI factories

Creating strategic computing power resources in the face of growing demand for AI. AI factories – a new ecosystem of data and computing power, an impulse for innovation, a competitive advantage in an era of AI, a means to stability and data security. To whom, and on what conditions, should we entrust our data in the cloud? Investment in digital infrastructure as a critical component in technological sovereignty and security. Examples of investment in GPU infrastructure – the role of the private sector and international cooperation. The role of critical digital infrastructure in digital transition. Energy and economic efficiency – how to strike a balance between data-centre development, environmental protection, and operational costs?

Technologies, Humans, Balance

Humans at the centre of the digital revolution: opportunities and risks. Automation, artificial intelligence and hybrid work are transforming work and society. Adaptability, mental resilience, work–life balance, and lifelong learning. Digital competencies have become a new currency, while cooperation between people and machines is now an everyday reality. Can people maintain their autonomy, agency, and well-being in a world of turbocharged digitalisation?

The telecommunications market in Poland and Europe

Leading trends defining the future of the telecommunications industry. Investments – in 5G, fibre optic, cloud services – in the face of growing demands related to data management and AI development. Challenges posed by cyber threats and the security of infrastructure. Surrounding of the sector: support for innovation, legislative barriers to growth, dialogue between business and legislators.

Digital tax

Opportunities of various players on the market of digital advertisement. The need for consistent rules and requirements so that all digital entities could develop (including the media who lose the most due to a lack of regulation). Taxes paid by tech giants in the EU. The areas of activity that will be subject to taxation in Poland. A response of the industry and the market; pressure and lobbying. Expected proceeds and the aims of imposing the tax on global giants. Support for the development of technologies, innovation, and quality media content.

XR technology – the new reality

Polish companies gaining advantage over their European competitors in the field of Extended Reality (XR). The pace of growth, the value, and the potential of the market of XR. The prospect of XR tools being used in everyday devices in the media, game development, or in filming.

Quantum Tech: from research to application

Dynamic development of quantum technologies and their advantage over “classic” digital solutions. New possibilities in computation, cryptography, and sensors; in medicine, chemistry, logistics, and finance. A lack of standards and legislation – potential security risk? High costs of investment and the need for advanced competencies reduce access and the pace of implementation. How to utilize the potential of quantum technologies in the nearest future? National and European strategies.

TRACK: EXPANSION, EXPORT

Polish Business Abroad

The expansion of Polish businesses abroad in times of turbulent geopolitics and highly regulated trade. Adapting products and business models to local requirements: logistics, financing, transaction security, and brand development. The support of state institutions and economic diplomacy.

Mergers and Acquisitions in the Global Market

International investments, mergers, and acquisitions by Polish companies – best practice. A recipe for success in the global M&A market. Local conditions, knowledge about the market, relationships, culture. Entry barriers, promising sectors, the strategies and experience of Polish investors that are worth drawing on.

Economic Diplomacy

The new face of economic diplomacy – a tool for pursuing both political and economic aims. Activism, collaboration with the private sector, joint investments, and building the country’s brand support international expansion, enable diversification, and strengthen economic security. Among new challenges are trade conflicts, economic pressure, and the management of supply chains.

The New Scramble for Africa

Africa as a market of the future – rapid economic growth, demographic structure, and the diversity of economies and markets. Investment barriers: political risk, regulatory instability, infrastructure deficits. The key to success: local partnerships, technology transfer, and skills development. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) opens up new trade and investment opportunities. Sustainable development and corporate social responsibility, linking investment with local development as essential elements of a market-entry strategy for Africa.

Export 4.0

How to gain prominence in global supply chains in the AI era? To increase efficiency of their exports in an era dominated by AI, companies need to tap into the global infrastructure of data, algorithms, and platforms. Digital transition is a key means to entering global chains of value, offering increased productivity, lower costs of entering foreign markets, and an opportunity to become a hub instead of merely a subcontractor. How can smaller enterprises develop a full set of digital competencies that could pave their way to international trade 4.0?

The ambassadors of Polish brand

Poland’s potential and recognition: what remains to be achieved in terms of promoting the country abroad? Mobilizing the Polish community abroad. Persons connected with Poland that are recognized in their countries that could promote Poland abroad. Popular representatives of Polish culture, athletes, business people performing the role of ambassadors. Poland’s civilisation development over the last 30 years, the country’s ambition and courage, the potential of its economy and the entrepreneurial spirit of its citizens, shared values of the free world: what should be the foundation of Polish brand and how to win support for it?

TRACK: INTERNATIONAL ECONOMIC COOPERATION

Economic cooperation fora:

• Germany,
• France
• Czechia,
• Scandinavia,
• Great Britain,
• USA,
• UAE,
• Saudi Arabia,
• Qatar,
• Morocco,
• Japan,
• Taiwan,
• Korea,
• South-East Asia, ASEAN countries, Vietnam.

TRACK: CONSTRUCTION, INFRASTRUCTURE, TRANSPORT

Major Infrastructure Programmes

Large infrastructure projects – their environment and conditions, and their impact on the economy. Coordination, effective financing, and process management under conditions of task accumulation. Local content in contracts, the digitalisation of public administration, simplification of procedures, sustainable design, and the use of Polish expertise in foreign markets. How to fully leverage Poland’s strengths and capital while simultaneously shortening the implementation time of major infrastructure projects?

Road Investments

The expansion of motorways, expressways, and local roads; the modernisation, maintenance, and development of EV charging infrastructure. Challenges: integration with rail and air transport, road safety, minimising environmental impact, investment process efficiency, adapting infrastructure to the needs of the economy and regional transport. National Road Design System (KDP). How to deliver a future-proof road network that supports the economy while protecting the environment?

Public Investments

Effective use of the budget in public projects. Challenges: coherent public procurement procedures, contractor availability, risk management. Integrated planning at national, regional, and local levels. How to harmonise investment processes across the entire country to increase project efficiency and predictability? Participation of the private sector. Financing after the end of EU funds.

Airport Infrastructure

Expansion, modernisation, and integration of the airport network – investments responding to real needs. The synchronisation of passenger and cargo traffic, integration with high-speed rail and national road networks. How to create a coherent airport network that optimally supports regional and national development?

Port Polska now

The project requires coordination across the transport sector, financing, and the integration of aviation, rail, and road systems. Key challenges include the economic impact of the investment, land availability, environmental and social considerations, and links with European networks. How to ensure that Port Polska becomes not only a transport hub but also a driver of economic and regional development?

Rail 2030++

The development of rail transport: new lines, the modernisation of existing infrastructure, digitalisation, high-speed rail, the development of intermodal transport, and integration with other modes of transport. Challenges include fleet renewal, alternative propulsion systems, and territorial cohesion. Under what conditions can rail become the backbone of a modern, sustainable, and competitive transport network in Poland?

Seaports

Polish ports within the supply networks of the EU and Central and Eastern Europe. Their role in the economy, their position in European logistics and supply chains, competition with Northern European ports, and their importance for economic security. Investments in capacity, terminal modernisation, digitalisation, and integration with road and rail transport. How to strengthen the global role of Polish ports so they become key links in European logistics chains.

PPP in infrastructure

The current role of private-public partnership in strategic infrastructural investments in Poland and Europe – the budgetary conditions. The nature of large infrastructural projects in the PPP model: the sharing of risk, the impact of financing provided by banks, additional reporting and environmental responsibilities, engineering and social challenges. The role of multilateral cooperation – opinion and experience of stakeholders (local government, state treasury companies, municipal companies, banks, central administration, private sector). Conclusions and recommendations.

Flood safety

The increasing frequency of extreme weather systems and their impact on the economy, development, and security. The experience of the previous flood – the vulnerabilities of flood protection: inconsistent planning, dispersed competencies, long procedures and a lack of coordination between local and central government. Key areas requiring action and investment: retention ponds and modern infrastructure, early-warning and planning systems. How to integrate the activity of the state, local government, institutions, investors and contractors so that areas and residents under threat are safer and more resilient?

TRACK: REAL ESTATE. HOUSING

The Housing Market

The Polish housing market: more supply, slower sales, high prices, low affordability. State housing policy – its effectiveness in the short and longer term. Regulation and the market: the Developers Act, disclosure obligations, the simplification of procedures. Developers’ adaptive business models. Housing as an investment. Alternative forms – institutional rental (PRS). Loan availability and cost, the impact of special programmes on the market. The real estate sector as an element of the economy and local policy.

Commercial Real Estate – Market Transformation

The market for offices, shopping centres, and warehouses under pressure from demographic change, digitalisation, and flexible work models. Challenges include adapting space to the needs of hybrid work, location attractiveness, cost optimisation, and sustainable development. Financing and investment partnerships. How to make commercial real estate flexible, innovative, and resilient to market change?

Urban Space – New Trends

Cities are evolving under the influence of urbanisation, demographic changes, and rising climate requirements. Key challenges: revitalising and modernising public space, integrating transport and urban logistics, sustainable planning, and supporting local communities and the creative economy. Investment in urban infrastructure, space, and technologies – the role of private investors. How to design the cities of the future – sustainable, functional, attractive, and friendly to residents?

Hotels, resorts, investment

Hotels in Poland: dynamics, new formats and design, rebranding and modernisation projects, most active investors in traditional and new locations. More than just accommodation – new functions of hotels and their impact on the property market and decisions made by investors. Changing preference of tourists and travellers, the influence of the MICE industry, the role of short-term rent and digitalisation of services –the challenges faced by owners and investors. The impact of hotels and investments in this segment and the conditions and new possibilities of regional and local development.

TRACK: FINANCE, INVESTMENTS, MANAGEMENT

Savings – the Fuel for Growth

Mobilising domestic capital as a source of financing for strategic investments in infrastructure, energy, and technologies. Social trust, financial education, and attractive savings instruments are of key importance. How can funds accumulated in PPK, OKI and investment funds be effectively activated so that they become a real driving force for the Polish economy and increase its financial resilience?

Financing investment

The energy, digital and infrastructure transformation requires enormous financial outlays that cannot be borne by the state budget alone. New mechanisms are needed – infrastructure bonds, public–private partnerships, EU and national funds. How to build a stable system of investment financing that balances development needs with the security of public finances?

The Tax System

Taxes shape the competitiveness of the economy and investment decisions. Challenges include fiscal pressure, simplification of the system, regulatory stability, and adjustment to the economic and green transition. Is a tax reform possible that simultaneously supports growth, innovation, and social justice?

Poland 2030+ – Investments for the Future

Strategic investments in new energy infrastructure, multimodal transport infrastructure, High-Speed Rail and the space industry, advanced digital technologies. Financing, technological security, human resources and skills, international cooperation, and resilience to global change.

Capital Market

EU plans for the integration of capital markets: objectives and arguments, potential effects and concerns. The effectiveness of strategies aimed at attracting issuers and investors; regulations that could facilitate this. Personal Investment Account and Employee Capital Plans – incentives for investment. New investor preferences (cryptocurrencies, foreign markets) versus the attractiveness and conditions of investing on the Warsaw Stock Exchange. The condition, potential, and prospects of domestic capital market entities.

The Banking Sector – Financing Investment

Banks’ strategies in the face of regulatory requirements, fiscal pressure, and the challenges of digitalisation. Fintechs, digital financial platforms, process automation, and new risk assessment models are changing the structure of the sector. Competition between the traditional banking sector and digital innovation in access to capital. The role of banks in raising the level of investment – plans, constraints, cooperation with investors, access to capital for SMEs.

Investment Allure

How to create a competitive and safe environment for foreign investment – a coherent and durable ecosystem? Regulatory stability, quality of infrastructure, skills and human capital. Challenges: simplification of procedures, local content, public–private partnerships, state support (SSE – special economic zones, tax incentives).

Public Procurement – an Instrument of Economic Policy

Mechanisms for supporting domestic industry and SMEs in public procurement while maintaining free-market principles and transparency. Legal mechanisms, quality and social criteria, institutional support, and preferences for local companies. Seeking precedents – the use of “protectionist” practices applied by EU Member States.

Barriers to Investment

The efficiency of investment processes in Poland is hindered by: regulatory complexity and bureaucracy, limited access to financing, inadequate transport and energy infrastructure, shortage of skilled labour, environmental requirements, as well as geopolitical risks and dependence on foreign suppliers. How can the investment process in Poland be improved to accelerate project delivery and strengthen the economy’s resilience?

Finance of the Future

Asset tokenisation and digital currencies are changing the way the economy is financed. Digital currency of the central bank and its future role in the system. Fintech companies and technologies transforming the world of finance. The place of crypto currencies in a modern financial system. Challenges: regulation, data security, system stability, and investor trust. How to create legal and institutional frameworks that will allow Poland to fully participate in the new financial architecture?

National Investment Capital

The Personal Investment Account (OKI) – a strategic state project aimed at transforming domestic savings into real development capital. How to mobilise the funds of citizens and institutions safely, transparently, and over the long term – with a view to financing investment? Social trust, the effectiveness of incentive instruments, and linking the fund with the state’s industrial and financial policy. The impact of the OKI programme on the capital market – forecasts, needs, expectations.

Leadership

Leaders of our time: new competencies and skills needed to manage teams amid economic and regulatory uncertainty, technological transformation, and new work models. Operational strengths: flexibility, resilience, innovation, and the ability to anticipate risk. Authentic leadership and authority instead of domination: influencing change, building relationships and support, openness to dialogue.

Insurance

The market of corporate insurance in the face of climate change, geopolitical turmoil and challenges presented by shifting demographics. How does insurance affect the stability of the economy? The role of insurance in risk management. Technological innovations in insurance: prediction and data analysis, the use of AI in risk and price analysis. Fleet insurance, major investment programmes (energy, infrastructure) – segments of the market with growth potential. Prospects for the development of the insurance market in Poland and Europe.

Shadow economy

Bookmaking, state monopoly vs. lotto and online casinos. The consequences of shadow economy in bookmaking: lost tax revenue, risk for players, destabilized market, difficulties in enforcing law. What tools – regulatory, fiscal, educational – could limit the development of the shadow economy and integrate the market? The European practice. Responsible gambling: the role of the state and business, risk, motivation of the client.

Business transformation 2030

Enterprises operate in an endlessly volatile market, subject to shifting geopolitics and costs fluctuation. Hence, it is so important to be resilient and flexible. Modernisation of manufacturing processes, digitalisation and the use of AI in optimisation, increasing effectiveness, and maintaining the profit margin. New models of costs and operation. The role of Central Europe in nearshoring. Competencies, automation, human resources. How can enterprises increase their resilience, remain profitable and gain competitive advantage in an increasingly volatile market reality, facing global competition, and rapid technological transition, all at once?

The market of private equity

The market of private equity in Central Europe and Poland: structure, funds, and other entities making private equity investments. Their role in obtaining capital by mature enterprises, support in restructuring, increasing professionalism of management, and significance for expansion in the market. Not only finance – the advisory engagement of private equity investors, new standards and corporate governance, operational optimisation. Low interest of domestic institutional investors in investments made by private equity funds – what are the reasons and how to change it? Models of cooperation, strategies, and management activity that allow to maximise the value of the private equity market.

Succession in Europe

A lack of effective succession in many European family businesses, a growing number of entities seeking investors, opportunities for mergers and acquisitions. How to prepare for a takeover of a family company? Measuring the value and risk, integrating organisational cultures. What strategies of succession and M&A will allow enterprises to maintain their value and use market opportunities in the rapidly changing European environment?

Managing a family business

Development of family businesses: the meaning of professional management, establishing modern structures, applying corporate standards and decision-making processes, and efficient planning of a succession. Family foundations as a tool used to stabilize ownership, protect the value of the enterprise, and optimise tax expenditures. How to efficiently manage a family business, combine tradition with professionalism, while upholding the values and still developing the enterprise?

TRACK: INNOVATIONS, LABOUR MARKET, EDUCATION

Competencies of the future

Dynamic changes and shortages in the labour market require new skills: technological, business, and social. Preparing graduates to work in hybrid teams, take strategic decisions, and develop applied creativity. Do university and vocational school programmes respond to the needs of tomorrow’s economy? Fields and models of education, practical experience – adapting education to future challenges.

Start-ups – what next?

The Polish start-up ecosystem here and now. Lessons from the last decade of dynamic growth. Leading sectors for young, creative, and innovative entrepreneurship. Trends and barriers: scaling, commercialisation, internationalisation, regulatory environment. Support? Does it work? Incubators, technology parks, acceleration programmes. Financing and the role of investors.

Polish science

The higher education system in the face of the needs of the economy, the country’s development ambitions, demographic trends, and technological challenges. Financing. Reform of the system. Assessment of science in Poland – new rules. Drop-out – how to respond? Polish science within the European system of university cooperation. The offer of Polish universities for foreign students.

Vocational education and engineering training

Labour market needs in the context of changes in industry, IT, and energy. Shortage occupations and skills. Desirable changes in curricula, dual education, cooperation between universities and industry. Between specialisation and versatility and flexibility. Do schools and universities prepare staff with the realities of a modern, rapidly changing economy in mind?

Evolution of the labour market

Different forms of employment and new models of work organisation, including the 4-day week, remote and hybrid work. The growth of project-based work and the gig economy, combined with automation and AI, is changing the structure of employment. Labour costs versus the protection of workers’ rights in flexible forms of employment. Which employment models best combine flexibility, productivity, and worker security? How to ensure a balance between business needs, work flexibility, and career stability?

Demography and the labour market

An ageing society and workforce shortages require extending professional activity, integrating different generations in the workplace, and ensuring career mobility. Skills aligned with new, changing needs; mentoring; preventing professional exclusion. Migration and worker mobility – aligning labour market policy with the evolving demographic structure.

The working, the non-working, the automated

Automation and AI are transforming the labour market – some occupations disappear, others evolve. Challenges of the digital age: reskilling and motivating employees, upskilling, flexible employment models. Human resource management in a complex work environment dominated by technology. Talent acquisition, retention, and loyalty. How to create coherent labour market strategies that account for automation, employment flexibility, and stable career paths?

University 2025

Digitalisation and innovation define the efficiency and resilience of universities, as they are expected to become participants and leaders of digital transition, help develop competencies of the future, and offer new models of training based on data, AI, and hybrid forms of education. Generative AI is changing the cognitive infrastructure of universities by challenging their monopoly on “knowledge creation”, redefining the role of the teacher and standards of evaluation, and forcing them to develop AI policies. How can a digitalisation strategy be translated into actual change in education and the way universities are managed, as they come under pressure of demographics, finance, and students’ expectations?

Education, security, resilience

The role of the education system in creating social resilience. The aims, methods, programmes: classes in education for security, civil education, teaching people to think critically and defend themselves against disinformation, creating emotional resilience. The potential of school communities vs. crises: responsible volunteerism, meeting or accommodation places, integration, support, social capital, source of credible information. How to plan and coordinate the use of the education system to increase the resilience of entire society?

50-plus employees in the labour market

Professional activity of 50-plus employees in Poland compared to Europe – where are we and where are we headed? Diminishing workforce vs. untapped potential of mature employees. What prevents employers from hiring people over the age of fifty? Mentoring, knowledge transfer, intergenerational experience. Reskilling and upskilling for mature employees. Flexible and hybrid forms of employment, ergonomics, and well-being in a workplace. State policy and action of employees: incentives, support schemes, best practice.

Migration policy

Migration as a response to demographic challenges. What sectors and industries need foreign employees the most? Ukraine, Asia, Latin America – where are they coming from and where will they come from in the future? National and EU migration policies. Procedures, stay and work permits – what requires immediate change? The assimilation of migrants: who is responsible for that and how to finance it? The society’s view of migration; how to promote acceptance and prevent polarisation? The role of employers in the adaptation of foreign employees. Benefits of migrant-founded enterprises. Highly skilled migrants: how to compete for specialists in the global market? Illegal migration, illegal hiring practices, violations – how to tackle these practices without blocking the legal paths?

TRACK: LOCAL GOVERNMENTS

The future of metropolitan areas

Challenges for major cities in the new EU programming period. Priority investment areas versus local development strategies. The role of metropolitan areas as engines of growth but also… centres of social and environmental tensions. Interdependence between cities and functional areas; the need for a new model of territorial governance. EU funds as a development instrument; preparing local governments for the new financing system after 2027.

Municipal companies and utilities

The role of municipal companies in local and regional economies. Management models and ownership supervision. Cooperation and competition between the public and private sectors. Key areas of collaboration – energy, waste, water, transport, heating, housing. Public–private projects with the greatest potential. Increasing efficiency while maintaining a public-service mission.

Education at the local government level

Staffing and financial crises in schools – how are local governments coping? The adequacy of the subsidy system versus real costs – the need for reform. The structure and maintenance costs of educational infrastructure in the context of demographic forecasts. Flexible financing of education and the quality of teaching. The education system in the face of contemporary challenges and dynamic change – is the current structure effective?

Mobility and infrastructure

Congestion, noise, and urban space degradation. How do cities reconcile rising transport needs with climate goals and residents’ quality of life? Shortcomings in planning that integrates road, rail, cycling, and pedestrian networks, as well as infrastructure for electric vehicles. Lack of stable and predictable investment financing. The “15-minute city” concept – difficult to implement.

Sustainable public transport

The growing number of private cars increases emissions and air pollution. How do cities manage this pressure? Investment and the promotion of public and bicycle transport. Examples of good practices (clean transport zones, integrated fares, bus electrification). Financial and legal instruments supporting urban investment in sustainable mobility.

Finances and investment in local governments

Effective budget management for local governments under conditions of limited resources. Access to national and European funds and public-private partnerships. Investment priorities: education, transport, digitalisation, healthcare. Multi-year planning, rationalisation of expenditure, and financial stability in a changing tax environment. Use of European funds.

Spatial planning

The new general plan replaces the local development study; another postponement of implementation, with investors increasingly submitting applications for planning permission. New digitalisation obligations. The need to balance public and private interests in investment decisions. Will the latest reform deliver the intended results?

Resilient city

Heatwaves, droughts, and heavy rainfall increasingly affect urbanised areas. Spatial planning and green infrastructure in urban adaptation. How to incorporate climate risks into local policies? Modernisation of buildings and water, sewage, and energy networks in the face of climate change and crisis threats. Strategies to increase infrastructure resilience and manage risk; monitoring of urban systems.

Civil defence

Civil protection and civil defence: what should a new, efficient system look like – one that is adequate to current and future threats? From response plans to continuity planning – where are we now? Lessons from the war in Ukraine, practices from other European countries. Local and regional partnerships in crisis situations. Responsibilities of local governments in planning, education, and infrastructure. Use of new technologies to build local resilience; education and counteracting disinformation.

Local governance, proceeds, algorithms

The consequence of changes in the tax law in the years 2019-2022 and their impact on revenues achieved by local government. The stability and predictability of money transfers vs. the possibility of planning investment. Actual and calculated data – the relationship between actual proceeds and statistical data. What systemic changes in the Act on the Revenues of Local Government Units are expected by local governments?

Decentralisations

How could local governments regain self-reliance, independence and agency that they have lost in recent years? Mood for decentralisation. What competencies of central government could be devolved to local government? The impact of devolution on the quality of public services, the time of response to the needs of citizens, and the possibility of local governments shaping their own reality. Flexibility and management efficiency on the local level in an unstable reality in terms of public health, finance, culture, and information technology development.

TRACK: HEALTH CARE

System stability and the future

The healthcare system is struggling with staff shortages and growing patient needs while operating under financial constraints. Training new specialists, recognising international qualifications, and long-term workforce planning have become essential to maintain an efficient and motivated system. How can system stability be ensured when both financial and staffing resources remain limited?

Pharmaceutical industry: medicines, prices, innovation

Ensuring access to medicines at affordable prices requires both supply security and support for the domestic pharmaceutical industry. Introducing innovative therapies and adapting EU regulations are key to maintaining competitiveness and market stability. How can innovation be reconciled with affordability and secure pharmaceutical supply chains?

Hospitals – efficiency and organisation

Hospitals face the challenge of using resources, equipment, and staff efficiently amid a rising number of procedures. Integrating digitalisation, logistics, and process management is becoming essential to improve service quality and reduce operational costs. How can growing patient expectations be reconciled with infrastructure and budget limitations?

Health and the patient

The patient and their needs are becoming the focal point of the system, requiring the integration of physical and mental healthcare. Access to therapies, prevention, and family support remain challenges that demand coordination between the public and private sectors. How can we build a system in which the patient and their mental well-being are truly at the centre?

Mental health

The mental health of employees is a decisive factor in an organisation's productivity and competitiveness. The scale of problem: burnout, depression, anxiety disorders lead to absenteeism and high employee turnover – how much dost it cost businesses and the economy? The pandemic, remote work, uncertainty, high levels of stress – how do they affect the mental well-being of employees? The role of leaders and managers: the significance of early recognition and quick response without stigmatizing. Programmes of psychological support in companies. Gen Z and millennials – new expectations towards employers in terms of work-life balance and mental health. Legislation, responsibilities of employers, ESG standards. The return on investment in mental health – data, studies, arguments for management boards.

Financing health care

In order to function effectively, the healthcare system requires stable sources of financing, optimal funds allocation, investment in medical innovations and digitalisation, and mechanisms allowing to monitor the cost of health benefits. Among the key challenges are the increasing costs of treatment, shortage of medical personnel, indebted hospitals, unequal access to healthcare, and the needs of the ageing society. Can financing, organisational and technological strategies ensure sustainable financing, high effectiveness of the system, and access to health benefits to all patients in Poland?

Biotechnology and innovations

In order to function effectively, the healthcare system requires stable sources of financing, optimal funds allocation, investment in medical innovations and digitalisation, and mechanisms allowing to monitor the cost of health benefits. Among the key challenges are the increasing costs of treatment, shortage of medical personnel, indebted hospitals, unequal access to healthcare, and the needs of the ageing society. Can financing, organisational and technological strategies ensure sustainable financing, high effectiveness of the system, and access to health benefits to all patients in Poland?

Health, economy, competitiveness

Health as a sector of the economy and a source of long-term growth. Health – cost or investment? Healthy population = healthy economy. The health capital of society vs. Europe’s productivity and competitiveness. Investments in health: digital services, silver economy, medtech, digitalisation, AI. Health as a domain of private and public investment and a competitive market. The role of the state: the legislator, investor, and guarantor of equal access to the market of health and health services. Stable legal framework, financing, private-public partnership, the insurance market.

The impact of Europe’s health on its safety

The ability of the EU member states to maintain the operation of their healthcare systems in a crisis. Sovereignty in healthcare – its insufficiency threatens the stability of state and the market. How to provide long-term access to critical medicines, vaccines, medical products and technologies, regardless of global geopolitical and logistic disruptions? Limiting Europe’s dependence on imports, European manufacturing and R&D capabilities as an element of industrial policy. Modern healthcare – resilience of the system: telehealth, processes automation and digital data management. Are we ready to use technologies and innovations to protect the healthcare system against future crises?

TRACK: FOOD INDUSTRY

Food security

The pillars of food security in the context of external threats and the complex conditions of agricultural production and processing. Changes in the agricultural sector as a response to crises. Local supply chains. The role of public administration: reserve systems, support for food production. Trade, distribution, logistics. Competitiveness of the food sector, exports, and European cooperation for security.

Polish food on the global market

Poland as the heart of the agri-food sector in Central and Eastern Europe – the growing presence of domestic producers in export markets, the expansion of Polish brands, and market consolidation in the region; challenges related to maintaining competitiveness amid rising production costs, inflationary pressure, and energy constraints.

Climate change and agriculture

Droughts, floods, and extreme weather events are increasingly affecting yields and food prices. Which technologies and practices can help farmers adapt? The new CAP framework. Regenerative agriculture. Does Poland have a strategy to adapt agriculture to the climate realities of the coming decades? Climate challenges versus production efficiency in the context of food security.

Agricultural production – relations in the value chain

Polish agriculture at a turning point. Rising production costs, unstable purchase prices, regulatory pressure, and disparities between primary and retail markets create tensions across the entire value chain. How to build a fairer and more sustainable system in which every participant – farmer, processor, and retailer – gains stability, and Poland maintains its position as a regional leader in the agri-food sector?

TRACK: Commerce

Retail 2030

Megatrends and new business models in retail. Macroeconomic and local factors influencing retail and e-commerce around the year 2030: urbanisation, demographics, climate, geopolitics. Trends and models of sales and distribution: omnichannel, social commerce, quick deliveries and subscriptions, AI agent as the middleman. How do companies respond to megatrends in order to gain competitive advantage?

Consumer 3.0 – emotions, data, loyalty

The current model of retail as a creative response to changing needs and preferences of new generations of consumers (Z, Alfa, Silver). This trend encompasses purchasing psychology, personalised experience and purchase protection, winning consumer loyalty, and the impact of automation and algorithms on purchases. Purchases of tomorrow: between convenience and climate sensitivity. Customer experience – how can the use of emotions, data, and automation define the future of relationships with the consumer?

E-commerce, technologies, logistics

The key role of efficient infrastructure: modern warehouses, processes automation, quick deliveries, innovative payments, using data and AI to optimise customer journey and operations. What sort of activity in terms of infrastructure and technology would allow retailers to meet the needs of consumers and rapidly developing e-commerce?

Retail, expansion, competition

E-commerce and marketplace: a lower entry barrier to global markets offer opportunities to smaller enterprises, among them exporters and providers of services. An extent of digitalisation allowing to become a meaningful link in the global chain of value. Best practice of the leaders of “new expansion” – how to utilize it? Green retail: sustainable growth in retail, global inequality and the opportunities to bridge it. Brands of the future – how are they made? Emotions, values, loyalty.

TRACK: HUMAN, DEVELOPMENT, BALANCE

Strategic philanthropy

How to build a new philanthropic ecosystem and strengthen the role of business leaders in supporting civil society. The role of corporate foundations. Global trends in philanthropy. Measuring social impact – tools and indicators. The impact of succession on private philanthropy and corporate social engagement. Strategic philanthropy in the face of major social challenges – climate, inequality, education. Building a cooperation ecosystem between the private, public, and NGO sectors.

Age management

An ageing society and the labour market. Managing multigenerational teams – a challenge and an opportunity. Intergenerational knowledge transfer – how to preserve the capital of experience within an organisation? Age-management tools: flexible forms of employment, mentoring programmes, adaptation of workplaces. Combating age discrimination in recruitment. Technologies that support longer working lives. Age management as part of ESG strategies – benefits for business and society.

Gender balance

Diversity in management – its impact on innovation and financial performance. Barriers to women’s advancement: the glass ceiling, pay gaps, stereotypes. Tools for building balance: anti-discrimination policies, pay transparency, flexible working arrangements, mentoring. Gender quotas on management and supervisory boards – new obligations arising from the Women on Boards Directive. The role of men in fostering equality. Supporting women in male-dominated sectors. Motherhood and fatherhood versus career – organisational solutions. Diversity reporting under ESG and CSRD. An organisational culture that fosters inclusion.

Ethical leadership

Business leaders now find themselves in the crossfire of expectations. On the one hand, pressure to deliver results and returns for shareholders. On the other – growing expectations from employees, consumers, and society regarding responsibility, transparency, and engagement in social issues. How to navigate a world in which every business decision is simultaneously a statement of values? Cancel culture, the backlash against ESG, culture wars, generational differences in values – today’s CEO must be not only a manager, but also a philosopher, diplomat, and often a psychologist.

Working in the hybrid era

The boundaries between work and personal life are blurring under the impact of remote work and flexible hours; pressure to be available 24/7 and the absence of rituals foster burnout. Limited social interaction makes it harder to develop soft skills. Remote work and return to the office: managing the process while taking into account the arguments of employers and employees. How can organisations protect employees’ mental health while maintaining performance? Mechanisms that bring about a genuine balance between work and private life.

Adaptive competences

Technological change requires continuous upskilling. The risk of digital and professional exclusion. The need to develop soft skills, creativity, and adaptive capacity. Do the education system and labour market policy keep pace with the rate of change? How to support lifelong learning while maintaining a balance between learning, work, and personal life?

TRACK: MEDIA AND COMMUNICATION

The future of dialogue

How is technology changing communication practice? How can we respond to new communication challenges arising from digitalisation, the speed of information flow, its superficiality, and lack of credibility? The evolution of communication: changing forms of dialogue and interaction. Social adaptation as a response to the digital revolution. The importance of digital skills and the need for education. Orderliness and accessibility of data. Rules, standards, ethical issues.

Communication in the AI era

Presentation and analysis of real, implemented, or prospective AI-based solutions in the field of communication. The art of visual creation in the age of AI. AI-based solutions in communication. Regulatory and ethical requirements.

Disinformation in business

Fake information, media manipulation, and their consequences for business: declining trust, share price volatility, disruption in relations with partners. Barriers to responding to threats: the rapid spread of fake news, lack of crisis procedures, and low risk awareness among managers. How to defend against it? Companies need to invest in reputation monitoring, communication standards, cooperation with regulators, and crisis strategies.

Disinformation and resilience

The impact of fake news and manipulation on the public opinion, political decision-making, and social trust. How to effectively protect society against disinformation? Poland and Europe face a challenge of creating effective information resilience. Should we respond to disinformation or fight it at its source? The role of big tech and social media – how to enforce the responsibility of platforms under DSA; how to regulate, without curtailing freedom? Effective counter measures – fact-checking is not enough. From targeted actions to systemic prevention. A need for national information safety strategy. What tools should the state be equipped with? Models of cooperation between administration, legislators, platforms, and the media.

The media and their future

The future of the media industry in a broad context – the need for redefinition. Credibility, entertainment, mission: what tools, and how, could help media outlets fight for the attention of the audience? How to reach younger audiences? Information media vs. big tech – a struggle for profit and value. Information safety as an important component of security architecture of the state and citizens. The new media act. Changes in the Polish media market: independence and plurality, transparent financing, better protection of journalists, managing state advertisement.

The audiovisual industry

Poland’s potential – the rapid development and professionalisation of the audiovisual (AV) industry. Growing needs of the domestic and European markets. The need to reduce bureaucracy. Access to specialised financial instruments, institutional support, tax incentives.

Poland through the world’s eyes

Poland 2025 – society, economy, security. The country’s accession to the G20 group. The perspective of journalists and correspondents representing foreign media outlets.

Digital hygiene

The impact of behaviour related to the use of information and communication technologies on the physical and mental health and social relationships of their users. The scale of damage, addiction, and the reasons behind them. How to promote behaviour, attitudes, habits and norms that restore safety, agency, and increase mental resilience? The role of education, social campaigns and organisations, role models, and the media.

TRACK: CULTURE AND LIFESTYLE

Market, luxury, investment

The luxury goods market in Poland in the European and global context. Value, scale, and dynamics of change. Investments of affluent individuals – what do they buy and where do they allocate their capital? The impact of the luxury goods market on the development of cities and culture. Challenges for the luxury sector: ethics, sustainability, inclusiveness. Trends in the luxury industry.

Art and business

The art market – a rapidly growing sector increasingly linked to investment, private capital, and national branding. Art as an investment – capital security, long-term returns, the auction market, private galleries. The role of art in building the prestige of luxury brands and CSR strategies.

Happier in Poland

The new luxury: tranquillity, nature, authenticity, locality. Poland as a wellness & slow luxury destination – potential and perception abroad. Investments in the premium hospitality sector in Poland – boutique hotels, luxury agritourism, wine resorts. The growing importance of quality of life in premium tourism – how to attract the modern traveller?

Business, identity, prestige

A new dimension of economic patriotism. An increasing number of entrepreneurs invest in the common good – through art patronage, restoration of cultural heritage, support for cultural institutions, development of urban spaces, or educational initiatives. Social and cultural capital. How to build sustainable cooperation models between the private and public sectors. Private museums, foundations, art collections.

Women’s football

The rapid development of women’s football in Europe and the world. Poland compared to the European leaders. Competition formats, clubs and training have become more professional in women’s football. How to build a stable competition format and staff resources? Sponsors, advertisers, media rights – women’s football as a business. Increasing viewership and media interest – how to turn attention into long-term engagement of the fans? The role of the Polish Football Association, local government, and the state. The career path of a female footballer – how keep top talent at home? Women’s football – a tool in promoting physical activity and equal opportunities. Grand tournaments: their impact on image and motivation. The society’s view of women's football – how to challenge stereotypes and increase prestige?

Global sports events

Organising large-scale sports events with massive reach – their nature and significance as business, economic, and infrastructural projects. Major sports events as an element of global territorial competition. Their impact on development, the discipline, the country, and the region. Tourism, media, transport, and services. Great sport, the brand of an event, promoting the brand of the host country. Mega events: plans, ambitions, budgets vs. satisfaction and actual benefits.