8th PFR Pioneer School
PFR Pioneer School Opens Recruitment for 8th Edition with Focus on ClimateTech and Sustainable Innovation
The PFR Pioneer School, a flagship initiative of Polski Fundusz Rozwoju (PFR), has opened applications for its 8th edition, targeting aspiring startup founders, technologists, scientists, and professionals seeking to enter the innovation economy. The program—structured as a pre-acceleration bootcamp—will run from September to December 2025, culminating in a Demo Day and Final Gala.
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This year’s theme is ClimateTech, aligning with global efforts to tackle climate change through sustainable technology. The program’s scope reflects selected UN Sustainable Development Goals, including Zero Hunger, Clean Water, Affordable Energy, Sustainable Cities, Climate Action, and Life on Land. A particular focus will be given to the role of Artificial Intelligence in environmental innovation.
Participants will engage in a three-week intensive curriculum, including practical workshops in Warsaw, remote mentoring, and an international module held in Sweden. During the program, they will form interdisciplinary teams, validate ideas, develop prototypes or MVPs, and learn how to pitch to investors. The initiative is backed by a total prize pool of PLN 110,000.
“The Pioneer School is about more than education—it’s a launchpad for ventures that combine technology and responsibility for the planet. We’re looking for people who think boldly and act collaboratively,” said the PFR team.
Key Benefits for Participants:
Team Formation: Build a complementary startup team based on skills and experience.
MVP Development: Create a working prototype or minimum viable product.
Business Validation: Use Lean Canvas and financial analysis tools to assess viability.
Investor Readiness: Train to pitch for funding and startup acceleration.
International Exposure: Join a Sweden-based workshop week with global experts.
Awards: Compete for financial prizes from a PLN 110,000 fund.
Who Should Apply?
Early-stage entrepreneurs
Technology enthusiasts
Career changers
Scientists and researchers
The organizers encourage diversity across roles—business, tech, and creative—to ensure complementary skill sets in each team. Applicants may already have a startup idea or develop one collaboratively during the program.
Program Timeline:
May 9 – Recruitment opens
May 31 – Early Bird deadline (PLN 550)
June 22 – Final application deadline (PLN 750)
July 7–21 – Stage 2 recruitment
July 28 – Final results
September 5 – Opening Gala
September 5–7 – Integration Bootcamp
September 8–12 – Warsaw workshops
September 15–26 – Remote sprints
September 29 – October 3 – Sweden workshops
October 28 – Demo Day
December 9 – Final Gala
How to Apply: Candidates must submit:
A completed online application form
A personal development plan (video max 2 min)
CV and personal questionnaire
https://startup.pfr.pl/program/szkola-pionierow-pfr
The Personal Development Plan should describe past initiatives, technological interests, motivations, and career goals. Videos must be publicly accessible.
The top 50 applicants will be selected to participate. All program content, workshops, and mentoring are free, with only a one-time administration fee depending on application timing.
