F/MS Top Startup Cities

5 min read

Gdańsk, Poland #278

City Scores

City Total Score

1.127

Overall ranking score

Quality Score

0.15

Ecosystem quality rating

Quantity Score

0.12

Ecosystem size rating

Business Score

0.86

Business environment rating

Score Distribution

Score Comparison

MeanCEO Index Click to scroll to details

64

Startup Ecosystem in Gdańsk, Poland 🚀

TL;DR

Gdańsk is currently ranked as the 278th city in the Global F/MS “Best Cities for Startups” Index. With its rich cultural heritage and a burgeoning tech scene, Gdańsk is becoming a favorable destination for entrepreneurs looking for a supportive startup environment.

Startup-Friendly Stuff 📈

1. Ease of Company Registration

  • Business Registration: Streamlined online registration process; generally takes a few days.
  • Startup Incentives: Local government offers tax incentives and support schemes for tech startups.

2. Employment Law 🏢

  • Labor Regulations: Comprehensive laws that protect employee rights; setup processes for small startups can be intricate.
  • Hiring Foreign Talent: Procedures for hiring foreign workers are clear but require necessary work permits.

3. Taxation 💰

  • Corporate Tax Rate: The standard corporate tax rate is approximately 19%, with a reduced rate of 9% for smaller companies.
  • VAT Regulations: Competitive VAT rates are in place, especially favorable for tech and service-oriented firms.

4. Quality of Life 🌆

  • Living Standards: High quality of life with affordable cost of living compared to bigger European cities.
  • Culture and Leisure: Rich historical backdrop with plenty of parks, museums, and entertainment options.

5. Bureaucracy 🗂️

  • Ease of Navigation: Generally manageable bureaucracy, although some processes may be slow.
  • Government Support: Various programs and grants available to promote innovation and entrepreneurship.

6. Visas for Entrepreneurs 🌍

  • Startup Visas & Permits: Accessible business visas for foreign entrepreneurs; some residency options are available.
  • Residency Options: Long-term visas achievable for qualifying entrepreneurs as part of government initiatives.

Startup Community 🤝

7. Networking Events

  • Numerous meetups, conferences, and hackathons regularly hosted to encourage networking and collaboration.
  • A growing number of international events attracting global investors and talent.

8. Subsidies and Funding 💵

  • Government programs actively support tech startups through grants and financial packages.
  • Local investment firms and EU funds are increasingly backing innovative ventures.

9. Venture Capital (VC) Presence

  • Investments: Emerging VC firms are showing interest in local startups, boosting funding opportunities.
  • Major Firms: Home to several prominent domestic VCs with a focus on technology and industrial innovation.

10. Incubators & Accelerators 🚀

  • A robust network of incubators focusing on various sectors such as IT, health tech, and renewable energy.
  • Programs typically offer mentorship, office space, and access to seed funding.

Technology & Industry Priorities 🔧

  • Focus Areas: IT, Marine Technologies, Renewable Energy, and E-commerce.
  • Government Initiatives: Special emphasis on tech-driven growth and sustainable industrial development.

Business Culture 🏙️

  • Language: Polish is the primary language; English is widely spoken, especially in the startup community.
  • Work Environment: Collaborative and innovative atmosphere; entrepreneurial spirit encouraged across industries.

General Pros and Cons ⚖️

Pros:

  • Growing tech ecosystem with excellent resources and support systems.
  • Competitive cost of living compared to Western Europe, making it attractive for young entrepreneurs.
  • Warm, hospitable culture with a supportive expat community.

Cons:

  • Bureaucratic processes may still present challenges for new businesses.
  • Limited international recognition compared to bigger startup hubs.

Initiatives for Female Entrepreneurs 👩‍💼

  • Increasing focus on promoting female entrepreneurship through workshops and funding opportunities.
  • Active networks aimed at empowering women in business with mentorship programs and resources.

Gdańsk is becoming an exciting hub for startups, combining rich culture with a supportive and growing entrepreneurial ecosystem. 🌟

MeanCEO Index for Gdańsk, Poland 🚀

Gdańsk is rising as a notable startup city with a rich cultural backdrop, but how does it measure up for female entrepreneurs? Let’s break down the MeanCEO Index score based on ten essential factors that influence the entrepreneurial environment.

1. Weather ☀️

  • Score: 5/10
    • Gdańsk experiences a temperate climate with moderate summer temperatures and chilly winters, which can limit outdoor activities. Enjoyable sunny days do exist, but the number of such days is less than that of places like Valetta or Madrid.

2. Location 🏖️

  • Score: 7/10
    • Situated on the Baltic Sea, Gdańsk offers beach access for swimming and relaxation during the summer months. Its coastal location lends itself to picturesque views and recreational opportunities.

3. Women Friendly 👩‍💼

  • Score: 6/10
    • Poland has made strides in terms of women’s rights, but societal attitudes can be traditional in some areas. Gdańsk is relatively progressive, with various initiatives supporting female entrepreneurs, though some challenges remain.

4. Foreigners Friendly 🌍

  • Score: 7/10
    • Gdańsk showcases a generally hospitable atmosphere for foreigners, particularly in the startup community. However, deeper social integrations may take time. Women foreigners may find a range of supportive networks.

5. English as a Business Language 📚

  • Score: 8/10
    • English is increasingly used in business sectors, particularly among younger generations and in tech startups, making it accessible for international entrepreneurs.

6. Delicious Cuisine 🍷

  • Score: 6/10
    • Gdańsk offers a delightful array of local dishes, though onions are prevalent. The emphasis on fresh seafood is a plus, but limitations on local wines keep the score moderate.

7. Ease of Getting Married and Starting a Family 💍

  • Score: 5/10
    • The dating culture is evolving, but the focus on traditional values can present some challenges. Gdańsk has attractive and health-conscious locals, but competition tends to lean towards personal systems of connection rather than communal activities.

8. Medicine 🏥

  • Score: 6/10
    • Gdańsk boasts a solid healthcare system, though waiting times can vary but are generally manageable. Costs are reasonable, making healthcare access relatively stress-free.

9. Ease of Transportation & Traveling 🚍

  • Score: 7/10
    • Public transportation options are decent, with a combination of trams, buses, and local trains. An international airport facilitates travel, but connectivity can sometimes leave room for improvement.

10. Startup Mindset 💡

  • Score: 8/10
    • Gdańsk is fostering a healthy startup mindset with resources and programs promoting innovation. The community shows resilience and support for risks taken in entrepreneurship, making it a more encouraging atmosphere.

MeanCEO Index Score: 64/100 🎉

Gdańsk presents an encouraging landscape for female entrepreneurs, characterized by a growing tech ecosystem and substantial community support. While there are areas requiring attention, particularly concerning women’s cultural status, Gdańsk’s benefits, such as an accessible business environment and collaborative atmosphere, provide a solid foundation for women looking to thrive in the startup scene.

Happy entrepreneurship! 🚀