Budimex to Drive Construction Innovation with Startups
The future of the European construction industry may be shaped by pioneers of new technology, and Poland is set to play a significant role in this transformation. The Budimex Acceleration Program, launching this summer, will invite a select group of startups to implement groundbreaking solutions in the sector. As the leader in Poland’s construction market, Budimex is partnering with innovative young companies to develop new technologies that will enhance efficiency, safety, and sustainability in the industry.
Supporting Startups to Drive Change
The Budimex Acceleration Program is designed to provide startups from Central and Eastern Europe with access to invaluable resources, expert guidance, and real-world testing environments. Participants will gain insight from experienced professionals, utilize cutting-edge data, and trial their innovations on some of Poland’s largest construction sites.
Budimex: A Leader in Construction Innovation
As Poland’s largest construction company, Budimex has not only dominated the national market but has also strengthened its position across Central and Eastern Europe. Constantly seeking technological advancements, the company aims to enhance safety, efficiency, and the quality of construction processes while setting industry trends.
Budimex has already pioneered several technological breakthroughs, including the use of cobots (collaborative robots) and 3D printing technology in large-scale projects. For years, the company has collaborated with research institutions, universities, and industry leaders to push the boundaries of construction innovation. Now, through the Budimex Acceleration Program, it takes another step forward by providing startups with a tailor-made acceleration platform and an unmatched base of expertise.
Key Areas of Focus
The program seeks solutions that address the construction industry’s most pressing challenges, particularly in the fields of decarbonization, automation, artificial intelligence, and sustainable materials.
“The demand for innovation has gained momentum in recent months. Across the EU, new technologies are being leveraged to enhance economic competitiveness and accelerate decarbonization. As a market leader, we closely monitor industry trends and understand that companies must embrace digital transformation and advanced solutions more than ever,” said Artur Popko, President of the Management Board of Budimex SA.
“We took this step years ago by establishing an internal innovation team and forming partnerships with external organizations. Now, we are expanding our efforts to collaborate with promising startups on a larger scale. Together, we will develop groundbreaking technologies that improve safety, efficiency, and workflow—not only within Budimex but across the entire construction sector,” he added.
The most promising projects within the Budimex Acceleration Program will have the opportunity to scale up and establish long-term partnerships with a company that operates in one of the economy’s most dynamic sectors.
What the Budimex Acceleration Program Offers
The initiative is open to young companies whose solutions align with one of six strategic areas identified by Budimex as critical to the future of construction:
- ConTech (Construction Technology): Advanced materials, cutting-edge construction techniques, and next-generation quality monitoring systems.
- Cleantech: Solutions focused on resource efficiency, carbon reduction, recycling, and raw material recovery.
- Green Energy: Technologies for renewable energy generation, storage, and distribution in construction projects.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Construction: Smart algorithms to optimize planning, management, and data analysis in construction processes.
- Robotics and Automation: Autonomous machines, robotic construction solutions, and automated project management systems.
- Occupational Health and Safety: Innovative tools for risk assessment, accident prevention, and emergency response efficiency.
Participating startups will benefit from:
- Access to Budimex’s infrastructure and resources.
- Technical and business mentorship from industry experts.
- The opportunity to test and refine their solutions in real-world construction environments.
The most successful technologies will not only gain practical validation but also have a chance to enter long-term commercial partnerships with Budimex.
Who Can Apply?
The program welcomes both Polish and international startups that have developed a prototype and are ready to test it on real construction sites. Budimex is particularly interested in solutions that have already reached the proof-of-concept stage and can demonstrate their effectiveness in large-scale infrastructure projects.
For example, AI-based startups will have the opportunity to integrate machine learning algorithms to monitor project progress and optimize material usage on road, railway, and bridge construction sites. Cleantech startups can test their raw material recovery solutions and energy-saving technologies in active construction environments. Meanwhile, robotics companies can evaluate how their autonomous machines perform alongside human workers and heavy construction equipment.
The program is open to teams that have been operating for less than 10 years, counting from their official registration date. Startups with unique, high-impact solutions and a strong, competent team will be given priority.
The Application Process
Applications for the Budimex Acceleration Program will remain open until May 7, 2025. Startups can submit their proposals through the official program website at bap.budimex.pl. The selection process consists of the following stages:
- Recruitment & Selection: Applications will be reviewed, and shortlisted candidates will pitch their ideas to industry experts.
- Acceleration Phase: Selected startups will enter an intensive mentoring period, during which they will test and refine their technologies in real-world conditions on Budimex projects.
- Commercialization & Strategic Partnership: The most promising solutions will move towards potential implementation, with the opportunity for long-term collaboration with Budimex.
“The program has been designed to facilitate a fast transition from pilot testing to real-world commercialization,” explained Marek Klusek, Director of the Warranty, Innovation, and Contract Conditions Branch at Budimex SA. “We are looking for young companies that need a testing ground for their solutions. We offer them the expertise of Budimex professionals who have in-depth knowledge of every aspect of the construction industry. This level of comprehensive support is a rare and valuable opportunity for startups.”
“In recent years, we have gained significant experience in fostering innovation, and now we want to put that knowledge into practice. Upon completing the acceleration phase, we remain open to continued business partnerships and supporting startups in scaling their solutions,” he added.
Industry Collaboration and Support
The Budimex Acceleration Program is supported by Startup Hub Poland, an organization with over 13 years of experience in promoting and mentoring innovative startups across Central and Eastern Europe. Through this partnership, Budimex aims to provide entrepreneurs with not only technical and financial backing but also the industry connections necessary to thrive in the competitive construction landscape.
