End poverty in all its forms everywhere

KATOWICE CITY ACTIVITIES

Operation of Day Support Centres for Children and Youth

In Katowice, there are 28 day-care centres operated by municipal units and non-governmental organisations, subsidised from the Katowice city budget. Their primary objective is to provide support to families experiencing difficulties by offering children care and upbringing. Children attending such centres often come from poor, single-parent, or socially at-risk families.

The centres provide their beneficiaries with:
- educational support (compensatory, therapeutic, speech therapy classes, etc.),
-nutritional support (two meals per day in community centres and youth clubs),
- specialist assistance (pedagogical therapy, psychological therapy, sociotherapy, counselling),
- organisation of leisure time (interest groups, cultural outings, excursions).

Such planned activities help the child in many cases to avoid the phenomenon of so-called inherited poverty and learned helplessness.

Day-care centres run by the Municipal Social Welfare Centre (MOPS) provide 186 places, while those run by non-governmental organisations provide 502 places, for a total of 688 places. In 2025, the City of Katowice allocated PLN 10,217,527.38 for this purpose (including PLN 4,392,751.38 for 9 centres run by MOPS and PLN 5,824,776.00 for 19 centres run by non-governmental organisations).

More information about the programme: MOPS

EU Project: “Katowice - An Open City: A Helping Hand for Families”

The project is co-financed under the European Funds for Silesia 2021-2027 Programme (ESF+). The City of Katowice obtained funding for its implementation in 2024, acting through the Municipal Social Welfare Centre. The total value of the project is PLN 3,749,552.00.

The aim of the project is to develop, improve the quality, and increase the availability of support services for families, to support children and youth staying in 24-hour care institutions in Katowice, and to support individuals in the process of becoming independent. The main tasks of the project include, among others:
- family support (family assistance, specialist services, group parenting skills training, speech therapy counselling, subject tutoring, psychotherapy for children and youth),
- support for children and youth, including those in institutional foster care (independence assistant, specialist counselling, subject tutoring, psychotherapy for children and youth), as well as a training apartment for young people becoming independent. The project is implemented from 1 November 2024 to 30 November 2026.

EU Project: “We Create Families - Support, Development and Promotion of Family-Based Foster Care in Katowice”

The project is co-financed under the European Funds for Silesia 2021-2027 Programme (ESF+). The City of Katowice obtained funding for its implementation in 2025, acting through the Municipal Social Welfare Centre. The total value of the project is PLN 2,708,073.04. The aim of the project is to undertake measures leading to the deinstitutionalisation of foster care by developing family-based forms of care and supporting foster families, particularly children and youth in care.

The main tasks of the project include, among others:
- development of family-based foster care - project participants will receive support from a family assistant and the opportunity for respite through weekend educational and recreational trips for foster families. As part of the task, equipment will be purchased to create a safe and neutral space dedicated to meetings, particularly between biological parents and their children currently placed in foster care,
- support for children in family-based foster care - this task will include employing specialists to conduct psychiatric diagnoses and FAS/FASD diagnostics among children and youth, as well as psychological and psychotherapeutic consultations, physiotherapy consultations, neurological speech therapy or speech therapy. Additionally, social skills training and educational support in the form of subject tutoring will be provided. Activities strengthening the social participation of children in foster families are also planned, including the possibility of purchasing tickets to various cultural, social, and sports events. Financial benefits will also be provided to foster parents for project participants,
- development of family-based foster care - a campaign promoting the idea of foster parenting will be carried out as part of the project.

The project is implemented from 1 April 2025 to 31 December 2027.

Cooperation with UNICEF

In 2025, the Municipal Social Welfare Centre in Katowice, as part of cooperation with UNICEF, implemented an initiative entitled “Development of Family-Based Foster Care Among People of Ukrainian Origin”.

The aim of this initiative was to increase the availability and development of family-based foster care among people of Ukrainian origin residing in Katowice by providing comprehensive support to foster care candidates and families undergoing the qualification process.The initiative had a systemic character and included both preparatory elements (training, specialist support) and motivational and organisational activities enabling the actual undertaking of the role of a foster family. The scope of activities included, among others training for foster care candidates. The training was conducted for families applying to become foster families. The training aimed to prepare participants for the role, familiarise them with procedures, responsibilities, and the specifics of caring for children requiring support. The activity contributed to improving participants’ competencies and increasing their readiness to enter the foster care system.

The project provides:
- a package of professional written and oral translation services, particularly for documents required in the foster family qualification process,
- support from a Ukrainian-speaking psychologist aimed at individual work with candidates and assistance in coping with emotional burdens related to the qualification process and planned acceptance of a child,
- financial support for families who decided to accept at least one child and began the qualification process. The allowance was paid for a period of 6 months to 3 families and served a motivational and stabilising function,
- legal support for foster care candidates through the involvement of a lawyer assisting in the preparation and completion of documentation required for court proceedings. Legal assistance significantly streamlined the formal qualification process.

Charity Shops

It is a place where residents can bring unwanted items in good condition. These items are then sold and the money from their sale is used for the social statutory purposes of the association running it. Clothing, shoes, handbags, jewellery, books, CDs, games, toys, household items, small electronics and white goods are accepted during the shop's opening hours. The most important thing is that things are clean and undamaged. Buyers later give them a new life as part of the “zero waste” concept, while helping to protect our climate.

“Tyle tego” charity shop, ul. Morcinka 3a
Operated by the Kurka Wodna Association. Donated items are sold, and the money from their sale is used for statutory purposes, mainly supporting socially excluded individuals, elderly people, those in difficult life situations, and people with disabilities. https://www.facebook.com/tyletego.sklepspoleczny

FAZA Foundation charity shop, Plac Karola Miarki 1
The foundation operates largely through regional cooperation with organisations supporting animals and environmental protection. Its activities can be summarised in three words: DONATE, BUY, HELP. Profits support workshops, lectures, community events, and environmental protection. https://www.facebook.com/charityshopkatowice/

Deszczu-Kropelką Foundation charity boutiques
ul. Jankego 83 (Ochojec) and ul. Koszalińska 18 (Ligota)

Accepted items include clothing, footwear, jewellery, handbags, books, small household appliances, plants, small furniture, toys, CDs, games, glassware, and home decorations. All proceeds are allocated to statutory activities, including climate protection, promotion of sustainable consumption and production, gender equality, empowerment of women and girls, ensuring healthy lives and well-being for all, and material support for organisations and individuals in need. https://www.facebook.com/deszczukropelka

“Ministry of Loneliness” Centre for people experiencing loneliness and in need of support

Located at ul. Mikołowska 44, this centre supports individuals experiencing loneliness, social exclusion, and difficult economic or life situations. As part of the project co-financed by the City of Katowice titled “Centre for People Experiencing Loneliness and in Need of Support”, the following activities are carried out:

- consultations and therapies: individual therapy sessions, group therapeutic workshops, meetings with a physiotherapist, philosophical counselling, and phytotherapy (two forest rooms),
- educational and preventive activities: consultations with legal experts and a geriatric doctor, lectures and workshops on coping with loneliness,
- integration and recreational activities: social dances and guided walks around Katowice.

In 2025, Katowice allocated PLN 245,000.00 for this purpose.

Silver Telephone

As part of the activities of the Municipal Social Welfare Centre, the City of Katowice operates the “Silver Telephone” (phone number: +48 32 251 69 00), which is a helpline for residents, particularly seniors. It provides information on financial and non-financial support, care services, municipal programmes, as well as procedures and formalities. In 2025, 2,398 pieces of information were provided. The helpline operates Monday to Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Staff offer advice, assistance in individual matters, and free informational materials.

Zero Hunger

KATOWICE CITY ACTIVITIES

Food Assistance

In Katowice, two soup kitchens for the poor and homeless operate, run by non-governmental organisations with the support of the City of Katowice. Meals are provided by:
- the Upper Silesian Charitable Society at ul. Jagiellońska 19,
- the St. Brother Albert Aid Society, Katowice branch at ul. Bracka 18.
In 2025, approximately 230 meals were served daily, and in 2026 this number is 150 meals per day. In 2025, Katowice allocated PLN 278,183.00 for this purpose.

Additionally, there are two food distribution points operated by non-governmental organisations supported by the City of Katowice:
- the Upper Silesian Charitable Society at ul. Jagiellońska 19,
- the Polish Committee for Social Assistance, Silesian Regional Board, at ul. 1 Maja 24.

European Food Aid Programme

Food assistance under the European Food Aid Programme is available to individuals and families in difficult life situations who meet the criteria specified in the Social Assistance Act and whose income does not exceed the established threshold. Distributed products include cereals (biscuits, groats, pasta, flour, oats), dairy products (milk, cheese), meat and fish products (pork ham, poultry ham, pâté, sprats in oil), fruit and vegetable products (peas with carrots, tomato paste, strawberry jam), sugar, rapeseed oil, and ready meals (beans in sauce). For more information on the Programme: https://www.mops.katowice.pl/node/1332

These centres also conduct additional activities such as workshops and ongoing cooperation with specialists, including social workers, to counteract negative social phenomena. Approximately 5,000 people benefit from the programme annually. In 2025, Katowice allocated PLN 67,500.00 for this purpose.

“Soup in Kato”

Members of the Good Shepherd Community, together with volunteers, regularly prepare meals every Thursday to share with people experiencing life crises and poverty. Meals are prepared at the Wysoki Zamek Club (ul. Gliwicka 96a), and anyone willing may join in their preparation. The meals are then distributed at Plac Przyjaciół z Miszkolca.

Good health and well-being

 

KATOWICE CITY ACTIVITIES

Katowice Resident Card

The programme entitled “Katowice Resident Card” constitutes an element of the promotional and social policy implemented by the City of Katowice. The programme aims to strengthen residents’ sense of local identity, improve the living conditions and quality of life of residents by facilitating access to cultural, sports and recreational goods, and to encourage both residents and non-residents of Katowice to register their residence in the City and pay taxes here.

The Card may be obtained by persons who meet at least one of the following conditions:
a. are permanently registered in Katowice (regardless of age),
b. are temporarily registered and settle personal income tax in Katowice (children under 18 years of age may receive the Card if at least one parent/legal guardian settles tax in Katowice),
c. settle personal income tax in Katowice (children under 18 years of age may receive the Card if at least one parent/legal guardian settles tax in Katowice),
d. reside in care and educational institutions in Katowice (up to 18 years of age),
e. are educators and directors of care and educational institutions in Katowice,
f. are students of higher education institutions registered for temporary residence in Katowice,
g. are persons registered for temporary residence in Katowice who have not reached 26 years of age,
h. are persons residing in 24-hour social welfare institutions within the City of Katowice.

Children up to 18 years of age of persons referred to in points a–c and f–h are also entitled to use the Programme.

Under the Programme, Card holders are entitled to discounted admission to:
- municipal swimming areas and ice rinks,
- the Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra (NOSPR)
- the “Ateneum” Silesian Puppet and Actor Theatre,
- the Museum of the History of Katowice,
as well as numerous other discounts offered by private partners (including restaurants, cafés, optical salons, florists, and many others).

Currently, 12 municipal units and 196 private partners provide discounts to KKM holders. Since the launch of the programme until the end of 2025, a total of 154,752 Cards has been registered.
kkm.katowice.eu

New City Stadium in Katowice

Arena Katowice is a modern multifunctional sports and event complex. It is located in ul. Nowa Bukowa in Katowice, which refers to the history of the GKS Katowice football club and the previous facility on ul. Bukowa. The first match at the Arena Katowice will be played on 30.03.2025 between GKS Katowice and Górnik Zabrze, just after the celebration of the 60th anniversary of the Katowice club.The arena consists of two facilities. The first one is a football stadium with a capacity of 15,000 spectators. The second facility is a sports and entertainment hall with an auditorium for more than three thousand spectators. The facility also offers training facilities and meeting rooms.

The stadium meets all FIFA and UEFA requirements, making it possible to host events of the highest calibre - from football matches and combat sports galas to business congresses, trade fairs and concerts by international stars. The cost of the construction work for the stadium and arena is PLN 229 million net (PLN 281 million gross), plus additional costs for the road system and the installation of photovoltaic systems.

Seniors

“Katowice Senior in the City”

The programme “Katowice Senior in the City” for the years 2022–2027 is addressed to Katowice residents aged 60 and above. Its primary objective is to enhance and improve quality of life by ensuring access to appropriate forms of support. The implementation of various projects under the programme aims to counteract loneliness and marginalisation of older persons, organise leisure time for individuals after the end of professional activity (including through the development of skills and personal interests), increase activity and participation of older people in social life, promote health and education, and conduct physical activity classes. In 2025, Katowice allocated nearly PLN 74 million to senior policy.

“Golden Handyman” Project

The objective of the project is to provide seniors with access to free minor home repair services, such as replacement/repair of taps in kitchens and bathrooms, repair/replacement of electrical sockets, connection of washing machines/dishwashers, replacement of light bulbs, adjustment/sealing of doors and windows, repair of handles/locks in doors and windows, etc.

The services are available to Katowice residents aged 65 and over (single persons and two-person households) who are unable to cope with home repairs and cannot always rely on support from relatives. The implementation of the task is carried out by the Foundation for the Development of Social Economy, which receives funding for this purpose from the Katowice city budget. In 2025, Katowice allocated PLN 89,980.00 for this purpose, and 460 persons benefited from the assistance. Number of completed repairs: 642.

Trips for seniors

The Municipal Social Welfare Centre in Katowice implements a project involving the organisation of trips for seniors. In 2025, 23 trips were organised for 1,125 participants. The aim of the project is to integrate Katowice seniors and provide opportunities for meaningful leisure. These trips constitute an excellent opportunity to meet new people, develop interests, relax, and take care of health, physical condition, and mobility. In 2025, Katowice allocated PLN 123,300.00 for this purpose.

Supported housing for seniors

Supported housing facilities are intended for persons requiring assistance in everyday life. They are located in a modern building at 6 Pijarska Street in Katowice (Bażantowo estate). The building is equipped with a lift and facilities for persons with mobility impairments. The two apartments provide a total of 11 places. They are fully furnished to a high standard. Additionally, seniors have access to a fully equipped room for group activities and a separate laundry and drying room.

Furthermore, the Bażantowo Foundation, entrusted with the task, is responsible for providing residents with professional support in performing activities necessary for daily functioning, including meeting everyday needs, effective time management, running a household, maintaining family relationships, and participating in the local community. In 2025, Katowice allocated PLN 300,140.00 for this purpose.

European Union Projects

“Senior in a Big City - Development of Services Provided in the Local Community through a Network of Senior Clubs”

Katowice obtained funding from the European Union under the European Funds for Silesia 2021-2027 Programme (ESF+). The total value of the project amounts to PLN 3,312,920.00. The objective of the project is to develop services provided within the local community for senior citizens through the establishment of a network of 16 newly created Senior Clubs operating in Katowice, offering direct support to at least 320 older persons requiring assistance in daily functioning due to age, health condition, or disability, as well as their environment.

The establishment of a citywide network of Senior Clubs has increased accessibility to this form of support, thereby strengthening the activity and social participation of older persons and counteracting their loneliness and marginalisation. As part of the project, dedicated activity cycles are implemented, including:
- “Smart Senior” computer classes for seniors,
- “For Health” an educational cycle,
- “Senior on the Move” recreational and sports activities,
- “Senior in Action” a community club with elements of a support group,
- “Senior in Travel” exploring nature and culture.

The project is implemented from 1 October 2024 to 31 December 2026 in 14 districts of Katowice: Giszowiec, Murcki, Osiedle Tysiąclecia, Kostuchna, Osiedle Paderewskiego, Brynów–Załęska Hałda, Koszutka, Osiedle Witosa, Załęże, Dąb, Dąbrówka Mała, Śródmieście, Ligota–Panewniki (2 clubs), Piotrowice–Ochojec (2 clubs).

“Sports University of the senior”

This initiative involves activating persons aged 60+ by organising various sports, integration, and healthy lifestyle activities. The outcome of the project is improved overall fitness, enhanced physical condition, and the development of attitudes enabling independent engagement in various forms of activity. Classes are free of charge and take place in sports facilities throughout Katowice. Activities include aqua aerobics, dance, swimming, badminton, yoga, gymnastics, Pilates, table tennis, healthy spine exercises, and fitball. In 2025, Katowice allocated PLN 205,000.00 for this purpose. The task was implemented by the Academic Sports Association of the University of Silesia.

Senior Professional Activation Incubator

The Incubator’s offer is addressed to Katowice residents - women aged 60+ and men aged 65+. It provides:
- career counselling support for returning to the labour market,
- advisory services in job searching,
- preparation of application documents,
- support in preparing for job interviews,
- assistance in identifying professional predispositions.

Katowice “Silver Book for seniors”

Residents aged over 65 and persons with disabilities may order a book or audiobook from the library with home delivery. Requests for borrowing materials may be submitted by telephone or via e-mail by contacting the relevant library branch. Delivery and collection of materials are provided free of charge. In 2025, 1,306 visits were carried out to readers, to whom 6,530 books and audiobooks were delivered.

“Katowice Senior Day”

This is a meeting of seniors with the City authorities at the Katowice Market Square, serving as a joyful manifestation of the presence of seniors in the urban space. During the celebrations, in an atmosphere of shared enjoyment, older persons can listen to concerts and watch performances. Each participant is provided with a meal, and in the afternoon, seniors take part in accompanying events such as theatre performances. Approximately 1,000 people participate in this event each year. In 2025, the event took place on 29 September. The amount allocated for this purpose was PLN 60,000.00.

Local Activity Programmes and Community Centres

In 2024, the City of Katowice obtained funding and commenced the implementation of projects financed under the European Funds for Silesia 2021-2027 Programme (Just Transition Fund). The objective of these projects is to improve social functioning and develop social activity among participants - persons living, studying, and working within specific districts of Katowice.

Local activity programmes for 2024–2026 include:
- “Szopki Community Centre in Szopienice. Towards a Just Transition.” - PLN 2,753,698.00;
- “Local Activity Programme Wełnowiec-Józefowiec and Dąb. Towards a Just Transition.” - PLN 1,939,248.00;
- “Bogucice - My Place on Earth. Towards a Just Transition.” - PLN 2,179,940.00;
- “Community Centres in Śródmieście and Zawodzie. Towards a Just Transition.” - PLN 3,053,100.50;
- “Our Załęże Community Centre. Towards a Just Transition.” - PLN 2,298,593.84;
- “New Community Centre in Dąbrówka Mała. Towards a Just Transition.” - PLN 1,646,590.80.

The main tasks include:
- organising local communities,
- educational activities in the field of ecology,
- initiatives raising awareness and knowledge on supporting women’s competencies,
- cultural activities related to local, regional, and historical identity,
- organisation of the District Academy of the Active Resident.

Programmes “Personal Assistant for a Person with Disabilities” and “Respite Care”

The 2025 edition is financed from the Solidarity Fund (Ministry of Family and Social Policy). The Municipal Social Welfare Centre obtained PLN 1,473,645.00 for the implementation of the “Personal Assistant for a Person with Disabilities” programme and PLN 1,294,176.00 for the “Respite Care” programme. In 2025, 123 persons benefited from personal assistant services, with a total of 31,457.5 hours of assistance provided. In response to the high demand, additional funds from the Katowice city budget enabled support for 16 additional persons (4,007 hours).

Respite care in 2025 is provided in the form of:
- day stays
- 24-hour stays

This support allows parents/caregivers to have personal free time, which they may use for travel, rehabilitation, or rest. Services include assistance with daily functioning, household and care activities, and shared time through games, activities, and educational sessions. In 2025, 144 persons with disabilities participated in the programme (121 adults and 23 children).

EU Project “Side by Side - Development of Assistant Services in Katowice”

In 2024, Katowice obtained funding of PLN 3,992,800.00 under the European Funds for Silesia 2021-2027 Programme (ESF+). The project aims to develop social services by ensuring equal and rapid access to high-quality, sustainable, and affordable personal assistance services for at least 56 residents of Katowice with certified disabilities. The project is implemented from 1 October 2024 to 30 April 2027.

Support Group “Joy of Life - I Can Do Anything”

This programme, implemented by the City of Katowice, is an open group for persons aged 50+, seniors, and residents with disabilities who wish to remain active and set an example for others.
The objectives include:
- improving the quality of life of older persons and persons with disabilities,
- meeting social and cultural needs through active engagement in leisure activities.

Meetings are held at:
- MDK at Boya Żeleńskiego Street 83,
- MDK at Kołodzieja Street 42.

“Sunflower” Programme

The programme provides support through volunteer activities for elderly and disabled persons. It is addressed to individuals who, due to age or limitations, require support from the Municipal Social Welfare Centre in Katowice.Its objectives include:
- maintaining social ties and safety in the living environment,
- expanding social contacts and activating participants,
- increasing the sense of security.

Transport services for residents with disabilities

The City of Katowice provides transport services for residents with disabilities, operating both within Katowice and neighbouring municipalities (Chorzów, Mikołów, Mysłowice, Tychy, Ruda Śląska, Sosnowiec, Siemianowice Śląskie, Czeladź). Services are available Monday-Saturday from 6:00 to 22:00, and Sundays/holidays from 8:00 to 20:00. In 2025, 2,804 persons used the service. The contract value amounted to PLN 260,824.80.

Municipal emergency notification system

This programme, implemented since 2008, enhances safety for elderly and disabled persons who may not be able to communicate effectively with emergency operators. Participants must have a landline or mobile phone registered in the system. In emergencies, operators receive identifying information and forward it to emergency medical services.

District social council for persons with disabilities

The Council consults urban projects to ensure accessibility and adaptation of public space for persons with disabilities. Members include persons with disabilities. The Council also reviews draft resolutions and programmes adopted by the City Council and actively contributes to initiatives promoting social inclusion.

Campaign “Profession: Assistance Dog”

The campaign promotes knowledge on proper behaviour towards assistance dogs to ensure their handlers can fully use public spaces. Workshops were conducted in schools and kindergartens to raise awareness among children.

Training Apartment for Persons with Disabilities

In the City of Katowice, as part of the services offered by the Municipal Social Welfare Centre, a Training Apartment for Persons with Disabilities operates.

The apartment is intended for adults who possess a disability certificate, who are undertaking life activities (continuation of education, employment, participation in Occupational Therapy Workshops, Community Self-Help Homes, activities in clubs, foundations, and associations), and who wish to undertake learning in developing or consolidating independence.

The apartment offers individual support (one-day training sessions) and/or work in a group of up to five residents during 7-day stays. The stays are repeated cyclically over a period of approximately six months (with the possibility of extension if not all intended objectives have been achieved).

During the stays, training is provided in the following areas:
- self-care,
- meeting daily living needs, including meal preparation,
- effective time management,
- effective financial management,
- household management,
- handling personal and administrative matters,
- maintaining family relationships,
- resolving interpersonal conflicts,
- developing decision-making autonomy,
- participation in the life of the local community,
- seeking and maintaining employment.

Community Self-Help Homes

Currently, five Community Self-Help Homes operate in Katowice, run by non-governmental organizations, with a total of 133 places available. Of these, two are intended for persons with chronic mental illness, two for persons with intellectual disabilities, and one for persons on the autism spectrum and with multiple disabilities, namely:
- Community Self-Help Home at 74A Gliwicka Street
- Community Self-Help Home at 41 Tysiąclecia Street
- Community Self-Help Home at 92 Oswobodzenia Street
- Community Self-Help Home at 4 Brata Alberta Street
- Community Self-Help Home at 47 Oswobodzenia Street

Community Self-Help Homes provide services in the form of individual or group-based self-care training and social skills training, consisting in learning, developing, or maintaining skills in the area of daily living activities and functioning in social life.

Free Specialist Counselling

The City of Katowice, within the framework of services provided by the Municipal Social Welfare Centre, offers specialist counselling for residents of Katowice (regardless of their income situation). Counselling is provided by psychologists, pedagogues, therapists, psychiatrists, and social workers. In 2025, a total of 2,786 consultations were provided to 60 families.

Municipal Nursery in Katowice

In 2025, the Municipal Nursery in Katowice operated with 14 branches located in various districts of the city, providing a total of 1,101 childcare places for children up to the age of 3 (on 1 April 2025, under the programme “Development of childcare institutions for children up to the age of 3 ‘ACTIVE TODDLER+’ 2022–2029”, a new nursery branch was established at 7B Kossutha Street, providing 90 childcare places).

The Municipal Nursery continued the implementation of the project entitled “Promoting Early Childhood Development (ECD) and Early Childhood Education and Care (ECCE)”, co-financed by UNICEF, the aim of which was to provide support to Ukrainian children and families in the process of their social inclusion. As part of the project in 2025, the following were carried out:
- sessions with a psychologist and a speech therapist,
- training for staff,
- a series of workshops for parents entitled “Growing up Together”.

The branches of the Municipal Nursery in Katowice are facilities intended for children up to the age of 3, ensuring safety, the highest level of comfort, and accessibility of services (including specialist support from a psychologist and a speech therapist). The equipment and arrangement of all rooms, as well as the playgrounds, enable the provision of high-quality childcare services for the youngest residents of Katowice. Care for children is provided by professionally trained staff, and meals are prepared in an in-house kitchen (based on menus developed by a dietitian).

“Active Playgrounds 2025” Programme

As part of the “Active Playgrounds 2025” programme, co-financed by the Labour Fund, modern playgrounds were established in 13 branches of the Municipal Nursery.

Health Prevention and Promotion Programme for the City of Katowice for the Years 2021–2027

For many years, the City of Katowice has undertaken initiatives aimed at improving the health and quality of life of its residents. Currently, the following programmes are being implemented:
- Preventive programme for the prevention of dental caries in children. In 2025, the programme was implemented in several kindergartens and covered 538 children aged 4 and 6, together with their parents. In 2026, it is planned to include approximately 640 children. The allocated budget for this purpose amounts to PLN 194,840.00.
- Programme “Preventive Care for Pupils.” In 2025, examinations conducted by paediatricians and orthopaedists covered 1,379 third-grade primary school pupils. In 2026, it is planned to examine approximately 1,600 pupils. Funds in the amount of PLN 514,560.00 have been allocated for this purpose.
- “Safe School” – an educational programme in the field of first aid in life-threatening situations for sixth-grade primary school pupils. In 2025, 94 training sessions were conducted in all primary schools in the City of Katowice, with the participation of 1,745 pupils. In 2026, it is planned to conduct 93 training sessions, for which funds in the amount of PLN 321,100.00 have been allocated.
- Preventive programme for persons of the third and fourth age – basic stage. In total, in 2025, 288 seniors were covered by examinations under the basic stage of the programme. In 2026, examinations are planned for 270 persons. The allocated amount for this purpose is PLN 75,250.00.
- Preventive programme for persons of the third and fourth age – rehabilitation stage. In total, in 2025, 30 seniors benefited from rehabilitation activities. In 2026, it is planned to provide rehabilitation to 20 persons. An amount of PLN 8,400.00 has been allocated for this purpose.
- Health prevention programme in the field of prenatal education “School of Childbirth.” In 2025, 72 women, together with accompanying persons, participated in prenatal education. In 2026, it is planned to conduct classes for 32 women. The allocated amount for this purpose is PLN 27,040.00.

Municipal Commission for the Resolution of Alcohol-Related Problems in Katowice

The Commission was established as part of the implementation of municipal tasks arising from the Act on Upbringing in Sobriety and Counteracting Alcoholism, as specified in the Municipal Programme for the Prevention and Resolution of Alcohol-Related Problems and Counteracting Drug Addiction. The Mayor of the City of Katowice appointed the Municipal Commission for the Resolution of Alcohol-Related Problems in Katowice, whose purpose is to assist persons struggling with addiction and their families in overcoming addiction-related issues. In Katowice, there are numerous therapeutic centres dealing with the above-mentioned matters. 

Non-Governmental Organisations Centre (COP)

The Non-Governmental Organisations Centre, operated by the MOST Association, works to strengthen the institutional capacity of non-governmental organisations and other third-sector entities in two locations 14 Kopernika Street and 7 Wita Stwosza Street.

The Katowice Non-Governmental Organisations Centre provides:
- a registered office address for newly established non-governmental organisations,
- infrastructural support (access to training rooms, office space/desks, IT and office equipment, document lockers and incoming mailboxes, storage space),
- substantive support (general and specialised advisory services, accounting services, training), for non-governmental organisations that have their registered office or operate in Katowice.

Planned COP Activity for 2026:

- 210 non-governmental organisations will receive substantive and infrastructural support,
- no fewer than 130 non-governmental organisations will have their registered office at the Non-Governmental Organisations Centre,
- 29 training sessions and information meetings,
- 300 hours of advisory services for non-governmental organisations,
- 20 animation/engagement meetings conducted by NGOs,
- 10 integration meetings (including sectoral, networking, and consultation meetings) for NGOs,
- 8 joint initiatives implemented by non-governmental organisations,
- 15 support packages for NGOs.

The Katowice COP integrates third-sector entities operating in the city, undertakes activities aimed at their professionalisation so that they can implement public tasks commissioned by the Mayor as effectively as possible, and stimulates the social activity of Katowice residents.

copkatowice.pl
https://www.facebook.com/COPKatowice

Information Point for Foreign Nationals

The main objective of this initiative is to support foreign nationals residing in the City of Katowice by providing them with free information and counselling regarding functioning within the local environment in both social and professional spheres. The Information Point also undertakes cyclical activities aimed at integrating foreign nationals with the local community.

The Information Point for Foreign Nationals, located at 5 Młyńska Street, has been operating since May 2021. The Mayor entrusted the operation of the Point to the In Corpore Foundation.

"Zone of change" Mental Health Clinic

The Silesian Centre for Prevention and Psychotherapy Association has been operating the mental health clinic “Zone of Change” (5 Ligocka Street) since 2022, dedicated to children, adolescents, parents, and teachers. The clinic employs qualified therapists, and psychiatric consultations are also available if needed. In 2025, the City of Katowice provided funding to the clinic in the amount of PLN 173,333.00. In 2025, 201 persons benefited from the clinic’s services.

The Katowice Sobriety Association “Dwójka” operates a helpline for persons in crisis daily from 18:00 to 06:00 at the telephone number 694 952 067. In 2025, the City of Katowice allocated PLN 179,678.00 for this purpose, and 1,699 persons contacted the helpline.

Development, Updating, and Monitoring of the “Katowice 2030” City Development Strategy

The Strategy, being a superior document in relation to other sectoral strategies and programmes in the City of Katowice, sets the framework and assumptions for their preparation, as well as for planning investments and non-investment activities across all aspects of urban development. The document was adopted by Resolution No. LXV/1360/23 of the Katowice City Council of 22 June 2023. Within the Strategy, five strategic fields have been identified:
- Social Quality of Life, focusing on issues related to the quality of human capital and education, social services, co-governance and participation, and a just transition. This field is addressed to the local community, residents, and non-governmental organisations
- Metropolitan Character, where efforts are concentrated on the city’s participation in co-decision-making processes concerning the development of cities within national and global networks of cooperation. This strategic field is addressed to leadership and creative environments
- Entrepreneurship and Economic Development, focusing on strengthening the ecosystem of entrepreneurship and innovation, building relationships with large companies and international business (with particular emphasis on the modern business services sector), stimulating the creation of new value chains in the green economy, digital economy, and creative economy, as well as economic transformation. Activities within this field are addressed to the business sector
- Climate and Urban Ecosystem, a strategic field oriented towards climate protection, ensuring a healthy urban ecosystem, raising climate and environmental awareness, and striving for sustainable production and consumption. This field is addressed to living beings
- Space and Infrastructure, emphasising the importance of the compact city concept and the creation of local centres, highlighting the significance of sustainable mobility, green and resilient infrastructure, and high-quality urban space. This field is addressed to users of the city.

Link to the document:
https://bip.katowice.eu/RadaMiasta/Uchwaly/dokument.aspx?idr=135424&menu=660

In 2025, the “Report on the State of the City for 2024” was prepared, containing detailed information on the implementation of the Katowice 2030 City Development Strategy.
https://katowice.eu/SiteAssets/dla-mieszka%c5%84ca/strategie-i-raporty/raport-o-stanie-miasta/raport-o-stanie-miasta-2024/Raport_o_stanie_miasta_2024.pdf

Swimming Pools: Burowiec, Brynów, and Zadole

Each of the facilities offers numerous attractions, including 25-metre swimming lanes, learning pools, paddling pools, recreational zones, jacuzzis, slides, and saunas. The complexes also include sports halls for football, basketball, volleyball, and martial arts training. The municipal programme “Like a Fish in Water” is implemented at the swimming pools, under which more than 10,000 children have acquired basic swimming skills. Residents of Katowice benefit from preferential pricing – one hour of swimming costs PLN 10 for adults and PLN 5 for children and youth. In 2025, the swimming pools were visited by over 570,000 people. Due to their great popularity, the City decided to construct two additional modern swimming pools at Boya-Żeleńskiego Street and Bederowiecka Street.

Swimming Pool at Boya-Żeleńskiego Street

In 2025, a Functional and Utility Programme was prepared for the design and execution of construction works for the project entitled “Construction of a sports and recreational facility in the area of Boya-Żeleńskiego Street,” which will be implemented as part of the project “Construction of two municipal swimming pools in Katowice.”

The project will involve the design and construction of a new sports and recreational facility, together with the necessary technical infrastructure, based on documentation used for the construction of the indoor swimming pool at Wczasowa Street in Katowice.The new multifunctional sports facility will be designed for versatile use, including sports activities, training sessions, and the organisation of competitions at various levels of advancement. The infrastructure will enable activities in multiple sports disciplines—both individual and team-based—such as football, basketball, volleyball, racket sports, and general fitness activities.

The future swimming pool facility, combined with a sports hall, will constitute a modern, multifunctional space intended for individual and family recreation, as well as active leisure for residents. The pool area will include: a sports pool with six swimming lanes, a recreational pool with water attractions (such as water jets, a slide, and geysers), a paddling pool for children, and a wellness zone (e.g. sauna, jacuzzi). The sports hall will be adapted for team sports such as volleyball, basketball, handball, and badminton. The facility will also allow for the organisation of fitness classes, gymnastics, and sports and recreational events.

Swimming Pool at Bederowiecka Street

In 2025, arrangements were initiated regarding the acquisition of land plots for the implementation of this project. In 2026, it is planned to announce a competition for the development of an architectural and urban planning concept for a sports and recreational facility around Bederowiecka Street in Katowice.

The aim of the investment is the construction of a modern, multifunctional sports complex, including a swimming pool, a diving tower, a recreational area, and a sports hall. The facility will serve recreational, educational, sports, and rehabilitation purposes. It will be publicly accessible to residents, educational institutions, sports clubs, and organisers of competitions and sporting events.

Additionally, the use of mine water as a source of thermal energy for supplying the new municipal swimming pools is envisaged. It is planned to use brine-to-water heat pumps utilising heat from pumped mine water. The conducted analysis of the use of mine water for heating municipal swimming pools confirmed that the application of ventilation heat recovery systems with a pool water reheating function, systems for recovering heat from wastewater from showers, and from used pool water, will allow for a significant reduction in the operating costs of the swimming pool building—by approximately 50% on an annual basis.

New Municipal Stadium in Katowice

Arena Katowice is a modern, multifunctional sports and event complex. It is located at Nowa Bukowa Street in Katowice, which refers to the history of the GKS Katowice football club and the former facility at Bukowa Street. The first match at Arena Katowice was played on 30 March 2025 between GKS Katowice and Górnik Zabrze, shortly after the celebrations of the 60th anniversary of the Katowice club. The Arena consists of two facilities. The first is a football stadium with a capacity of 15,000 spectators. The second is a sports and entertainment hall with seating for over 3,000 spectators. The complex also offers training facilities and conference rooms.

The stadium meets all FIFA and UEFA requirements, which enables the organisation of top-tier events—from football matches and combat sports galas to business congresses, trade fairs, and concerts by international stars. The cost of construction works related to the stadium and the hall amounted to PLN 229 million net (PLN 281 million gross), in addition to further costs associated with the construction of the road infrastructure and the installation of photovoltaic systems. In order for the new stadium to fully and properly fulfil its functions, its additional outfitting commenced in 2025. This included, among others, the provision of sports equipment and other items necessary for the operation of the facility and the maintenance of the pitch (i.e. agricultural and horticultural equipment, the delivery of a tractor with accessories, and tools).

Municipal Cultural Centres in Katowice

Municipal Cultural Centre “Szopienice–Giszowiec”

- 378 discounts were granted to holders of the KKM card participating in ticketed events organised by the Centre.
- Workshops, lectures, a talk, a trip, and integration Nordic walking meetings were organised—18 activities in total, with the participation of 413 persons, as part of the “Katowice Senior in the City” initiative.
- The Centre implements the programme “Community Centre Szopki in Szopienice. Towards a Just Transition.” As part of the programme in 2025, the following were organised: Silesian Tradition School—integrative and educational workshops for children (9 meetings / 163 participants), Silesian Workshop—series of meetings and workshops (4 meetings / 69 participants), Midsummer Night—an integration meeting for residents (1 meeting / 300 participants), Musicals—adaptations of well-known works in the Silesian dialect (“Zolyty”—a vaudeville in the Silesian dialect based on “Marriage” by M. Gogol) (1 meeting / 336 participants), and Silesia in theatre for children (“Zuzanka and the Water Sprites” and “Beboki” by the TRIP Theatre) (2 meetings / 550 participants).

Municipal Cultural Centre “Ligota

- 36 meetings were held as part of the “Time for Seniors” initiative, with the participation of 322 persons. The aim of the project was the integration of seniors and their activation through sensory and musical activities, games, as well as artistic and handicraft activities supporting the maintenance of intellectual fitness and well-being.
- 9 meetings were held with the participation of 162 persons as part of workshops for young people with disabilities. The aim of the workshops was the cultural and creative activation of participants through the development of musical and artistic sensitivity, stimulation of creativity, and the possibility of self-expression.

Municipal Cultural Centre “Południe” – Kostuchna

The Centre conducts numerous activities supporting physical activity, including corrective gymnastics for children, rehabilitation gymnastics for seniors, “healthy spine” gymnastics, slow jogging, fitness classes for seniors, and Nordic Walking classes (as part of the project “Walking with Poles for Health”).

The Centre regularly organises meetings with doctors and scientific lectures on health-related topics, raising awareness among participants regarding lifestyle diseases and the risks of modern lifestyles (including pro-health lectures as part of the project “Environmental Determinants of Human Health” under the Green Budget of the City of Katowice 2025, such as “About Smog,” “Food and Health,” “The Impact of Greenery on Human Health,” and “How to Sit Healthily?”).

The Centre also regularly organises events supporting mental well-being, such as reflective concerts, psychological workshops, creative workshops, and art therapy workshops (e.g. the projects “Singing Piotrowice” under the Local Initiatives of the City of Katowice 2024 and 2025, involving group singing and music therapy workshops as one of the most accessible forms of self-therapy). In Kostuchna, as part of the initiative “Rest and Slow Down,” open and free breathing and relaxation workshops were organized.

Municipal Cultural Centre “Koszutka”

Cyclical physical activity classes for seniors – activities promoting physical activity for seniors and adults are conducted in three locations: MDK “Koszutka” at 47 Grażyńskiego Street, MDK “Koszutka” branch “Dąb” at 1 Krzyżowa Street, and MDK “Koszutka” “Dom Kultury na Witosa” at 32 Kwiatkowskiego Street. The aim of the classes is to improve physical fitness, maintain health, foster social integration, and increase independence in daily life. Number of participants: 118 persons across three locations.

Brotherhood of Active Seniors

Meetings are held weekly at the “Dom Kultury na Witosa,” except during holiday periods, and gather a regular group of participants. Approximately 50 persons regularly attend the meetings. The aim of the Brotherhood of Active Seniors is to support an active, creative, and fulfilling life for older people through joint activities, the development of passions, and the building of interpersonal relationships.

“eS” Café

Meetings are held every two weeks at MDK “Koszutka,” except during holiday periods, and gather a regular group of 15 participants. Meetings within the “eS” Café space aim to support a full, meaningful, and engaging lifestyle for older persons through joint initiatives, the development of interests, and strengthening interpersonal relationships.

Inspirational Conference “TUKEJ”

Held at MDK “Koszutka” branch “Dąb” (expert lectures and workshops enhancing professional competences, accompanied by an e-book constituting a lasting educational outcome). Number of participants: 300 persons.

Civic Education – CREATOR Volunteer Academy

Cyclical meetings with a youth group conducted by MDK “Koszutka” branch “Dąb” (training sessions, workshops, and youth engagement with the local community). Number of participants: 13 persons. An important element supporting the accessibility of activities at MDK “Koszutka” is the acceptance of the Katowice Resident Card, thanks to which seniors can benefit from a 50% discount on cultural events organised by the Cultural Centre.

Municipal Cultural Centre “Bogucice–Zawodzie”

- Conducts regular physical activity classes for seniors (Lu Jong gymnastics) several times a week; approximately 100 participants per month.
- Implements the Local Initiative project “Concerts on the Corner – promotion of local artistic talents.” In the period September–October 2025, three concerts promoting local artists and integrating residents were held. Total attendance: 70 persons.
- Implements participatory budget projects: “Summer Outdoor Cinema in Paderewskiego” – publicly accessible cultural events fostering local community integration (during the summer months, 7 outdoor film screenings were held, attended by a total of 420 persons).

Municipal Public Library in Katowice

In 2025, thanks to funding from the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage under the “Partnership for the Book” programme, the Municipal Public Library in Katowice implemented the project “BIBLIOTherapy,” addressed to children, youth, adults, and seniors. In this project, literature served as a starting point for intergenerational discussions on difficult and often painful topics related to mental health, including depression, discrimination, self-harm, illness, death, and grief.

Workshops for children and youth, meetings for adults, and training sessions for librarians were conducted; 168 persons participated in 10 events. Guests included authors of books addressing these topics for both children and adults, as well as practising psychologists.

The Municipal Public Library in Katowice is also involved, through complementary activities, in the projects “Community Centre Our Załęże. Towards a Just Transition” (Branch No. 3) and “New Community Centre in Dąbrówka Mała. Towards a Just Transition” (Branch No. 20).
- Branch No. 20 (Dąbrówka Mała): In 2025, 30 meetings were held (including 14 family-oriented and 16 thematic meetings), attended by 1,297 persons. Family meetings included: a magician’s performance, theatre workshops, ornithological workshops, therapeutic and nature workshops, theatre performances, floristry workshops, book-edge painting workshops, and bird feeder construction workshops. Thematic meetings included author meetings (e.g. with Wojciech Widłak, Anna Król-Bocheńska, Anna Skowrońska, Alicja Krzanik, and Anna Salamon), as well as meetings with travellers, beekeepers, an ornithologist, and a climate educator.
- Branch No. 3 (Załęże): In 2025, 6 walks and 36 meetings were held, attended by 1,195 persons. Each walk had a different guide and theme, including ornithological, historical, architectural, and routes following the Baildon Steelworks. Among the meetings, author events predominated, featuring authors addressing Silesian topics (Monika Kassner, Dr Dariusz Zalega, Kamil Iwanicki, Hania Hoffman), as well as popular authors of contemporary and crime literature (including Sylwia Trojanowska, Magdalena Majcher, Jędrzej Pasierski, Grzegorz Brudnik, Łukasz Orbitowski, and Agnieszka Zakrzewska).

For children and youth from educational institutions cooperating with Branch No. 3 in the Załęże district, meetings were organised (following consultations with teachers) with authors such as Rafał Witek, Joanna Olejarczyk and Iwona Michta, Marcin Szczygielski, Joanna Olech, and Przemysław Wechterowicz. Travel and thematic meetings were also organised, including meetings with an ornithologist, an actress, a storyteller, an artist from Mexico, and illustrators.

Quality education

 

KATOWICE CITY ACTIVITIES 

European City of Science 2024

Katowice, as the first city in Central and Eastern Europe, was awarded the title of European City of Science. The City entered into an agreement with an Academic Consortium composed of local public universities for the organisation and co-organisation of a series of scientific events. In 2024, Katowice hosted the 11th edition of the EuroScience Open Forum, the Inter-University Inauguration of the Academic Year, and over 1,000 events held during 50 thematic weeks, which attracted more than 270,000 participants.

One of the initiatives aimed at disseminating knowledge and promoting the idea of the European City of Science was the Kato Science Corner—a creatively arranged space in one of the historic tenement buildings near the Katowice market square, where various meetings, workshops, and other educational activities addressed to all city residents were held.

As a result of activities related to the European City of Science Katowice 2024 and cooperation with universities, in 2025 the City implemented two projects, the continuation of which is also planned for 2026. The first is a social innovation competition organised in cooperation with the University of Silesia, addressed to students and entitled “Invent the Future. Katowice – City of Future Science.” The second is a series of popular science meetings for Katowice residents entitled “Science Cafés,” implemented in cooperation with the University of Economics in Katowice.

Silesian Science Festival

The 9th edition of the Silesian Science Festival took place on 6-8 December 2025 at the International Congress Centre. As every year, this unique event offered a vast number of attractions, lectures, workshops, and interactive scientific demonstrations. The 9th edition was held under the motto “Experiment!”, encouraging participants to freely expand their horizons, boldly combine seemingly disparate elements, and explore unknown areas of science.

During the Festival, the latest scientific achievements were presented across 24 stages. The International Congress Centre was divided into thematic zones: nature, medicine and health, physical culture, humanities and social sciences, exact sciences, technology, and art. Dozens of activities were available to visitors in each zone. Numerous author meetings, debates, and workshops for children and youth were also held.

A special event was the “Evening in the City of Science,” during which the performance “Experiment,” directed by Piotr Jankowski, was presented, inspired by the famous prison experiment conducted in 1971 by a group of psychologists led by Professor Philip Zimbardo.

The 9th edition of the Festival also featured new elements, such as unique stages and special zones. Participants had the opportunity to explore the worlds of science fiction, film, and literature, expand their knowledge in the health prevention zone, and take part in experiments in a research laboratory. Among the invited guests were Artur Chmielewski from NASA, Dr Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski from ESA, Katie Steckles, and Professor Takaharu Tezuka. Science communicators, online content creators, researchers, and educators from Polish and international universities also participated. The event was attended by 82,000 participants at the International Congress Centre in Katowice, while 26,372 persons took part online.

The jubilee 10th edition of the Silesian Science Festival Katowice will take place on 5-7 December 2026. Admission to the event is free of charge but requires prior registration, which ensures access to numerous attractions and allows the use of free public transport in Katowice.

Katowice Centre for Music Education “Kilar House”

In pursuit of enriching the metropolitan cultural and educational offer of the city, and referring to the idea of a UNESCO Creative City of Music (a title held by Katowice since 2015), in the years 2023–2024 the building of the former family home of Wojciech Kilar, located at 165 Kościuszki Street, was expanded and transformed into a multimedia museum dedicated to this renowned composer—the Katowice Centre for Music Education “Kilar House.” The expanded facility is intended to serve both as a memorial house of Wojciech Kilar, featuring an exhibition, and as a venue for organising musical events.

The facility ensures accessibility for persons with special needs, including architectural accessibility (through barrier-free horizontal and vertical communication spaces, lifts, ramps, inclines, and parking spaces), provision of information on the layout of rooms in visual, tactile, or audio form, as well as digital and information-communication accessibility. The project was co-financed by the Government Fund for Local Investments in the amount of PLN 1.2 million.

Closely linked to this investment is the project entitled “Katowice Centre for Music Education ‘Kilar House’ – permanent exhibition,” scheduled for completion in 2026. The undertaking will consist of two fundamentally different exhibitions. The first exhibition will be located in the rooms of the former villa, where original interiors will be recreated. It will take the form of a museum dedicated to Wojciech Kilar, with a narrative focused on the life and work of the composer. The second exhibition is planned in the newly constructed building at the rear of the plot. It has been designed as a modern educational exhibition on music, both in terms of design and the selection of means, primarily dedicated to children and young people.

The main objective of both exhibitions will be to conduct educational activities in the field of music and to present the achievements of Wojciech Kilar and the Silesian School of Composers. The exhibition will include stations with interactive and multimedia elements using image, sound, and touch. Thanks to the new interior arrangement of the villa after expansion, supplemented with additional archival materials and valuable exhibits obtained from the Museum of the History of Katowice—such as scores, recordings, photographs, and materials acquired from other institutions—the visitors will be able to explore the broader context of the creation of Wojciech Kilar’s works.

With the use of high-quality sound systems, HD projections, and interactive screens, visitors will be able not only to hear but also to “feel” the composer’s music within the exhibition space. Modern equipment will allow the experience of a concert or film screening to be brought into the Music Education Centre, creating an entirely new dimension of experiencing this art form. The exhibition project is co-financed by the Government Fund “Polish Deal: Strategic Investment Programme” in the amount of PLN 5.49 million.

Jerzy Kukuczka Himalayanism Centre

Since 2025, in Katowice-Bogucice, at the intersection of Markiefki and Katowicka Streets, the construction of a complex consisting of three building sections with different functions has been underway: a museum and exhibition section, an activity zone (including, among others, a climbing wall and a large auditorium hall), and an office and administrative section. On the one hand, the Centre is intended to commemorate the outstanding mountaineer Jerzy Kukuczka, and on the other, to become a meeting place for mountain enthusiasts, as well as an educational space designed to inspire future generations to push the limits of their capabilities and achieve their set goals.

The facility will complement the development of the Culture Zone and enable its integration with the surrounding Bogucice district. The area constituting the central zone of the district’s historic development will be redeveloped. The project responds to the needs expressed by residents during the work on the integrated revitalization programme for Bogucice under the Partnership for Cities Initiative (PIM). The completion of the investment is currently planned for 2027.

The project has received funding from the Government Local Investment Fund in the amount of PLN 2.3 million and from European Union funds in the amount of approximately PLN 27.3 million under Measure FESL.09.01 – Increasing the role of culture and tourism in subregional development – ZIT.

Furthermore, with regard to the exhibition, on 30 December 2025 a tender procedure was announced for the execution, delivery, installation, commissioning, and configuration of the permanent exhibition at the “Jerzy Kukuczka Himalayanism Centre” in Katowice. The aim of the exhibition is to create a modern, multimedia display divided into several thematic zones and adapted to various age groups. It will include, among others, interactive boards, touch panels, multimedia elements, and staged installations. One of the notable attractions will be a snow cave, enabling visitors to experience the conditions prevailing on the highest peaks in the world.

Katowice Educational Diamond - Award of the Mayor of Katowice and the Rector of the University of Silesia in Katowice

This special distinction is dedicated to students of Katowice schools residing in our City who not only achieve high academic results but also excel in the fields for which awards are granted, namely: humanities and foreign languages, exact and natural sciences, social and civic competences, regional education, culture and art, as well as sport. These students extend their activity beyond school walls, achieving success, developing their talents and passions, and, through their committed and pro-social attitude, inspire others to grow.

The aim of the award is to support the potential of young residents of Katowice, promote their talents and achievements, motivate them to enhance key competences, and create positive role models for school communities.

Katowice - The City of Skilled Professionals

Implemented cyclically since 2018, the programme is designed to encourage young people who are facing the choice of their further educational path to pursue education in vocational and technical schools. The programme aims to increase knowledge and social awareness of the dual education system and to present the wide range of opportunities offered by the City of Katowice in terms of professional development.

The project is addressed to seventh-grade primary school students. It is implemented in a four-stage format, consisting of an introductory homeroom lesson, a study visit to a company and to a post-primary school providing education in the profession related to the company visit, and a concluding homeroom lesson. The key stage of the project is the study visits to companies participating in the programme. Participation in such visits enables students to become familiar with the specifics of working in a given profession, the practical principles of company operations, the competences required in a particular work environment, as well as employment opportunities within the enterprise.

University of the Best

The programme aims to present the rich educational offer of the University of Silesia and to encourage students to undertake studies in the Silesian Voivodeship. It supports students in developing their cognitive activity, stimulates their innovation and creativity. The main working method is personalised education based on tutoring. A tutor acts as a mentor who helps identify the optimal academic path and tailor it to the student’s individual interests. During meetings, the tutor works with the participant to accurately identify their potential, assists in discovering and developing talents, motivates them, and jointly defines a development path. Participants are recruited from among primary and post-primary school students. The programme involves the implementation of individualised educational programmes for gifted students under the supervision of academic staff of the University of Silesia.

Silesian School of Practice

The aim of the project was to improve the functioning and increase the use of the school support system in the development of students’ key competences and universal skills, the so-called transversal skills, essential in the labour market. These include: mathematical and scientific skills, foreign language proficiency (including Polish for foreigners and persons returning to Poland and their families), ICT skills, comprehension, creativity, innovation, entrepreneurship, critical thinking, problem-solving, learning skills, teamwork in the context of the work environment, as well as experimental teaching and methods based on an individualised approach to the student.

Encoded Katowice

This is an original programme of additional classes in coding and programming for third-grade primary school students. It develops students’ logical thinking and reasoning skills, as well as social competences. The classes foster teamwork in a manner most accessible to children—through experience and experimentation—which also translates into faster retention of information and its effective practical application.

Mathematical Katowice

This is an original programme of additional mathematics classes for fourth-grade primary school students. The aim of the programme is to stimulate intellectual development by instilling enthusiasm and motivation for learning mathematics. The programme focuses on making students aware that knowledge of mathematics has a tangible, practical dimension and is helpful in many everyday activities, which helps build a positive attitude towards the “queen of sciences.” Through participation, students develop logical thinking, experimentation, critical analysis, and teamwork skills.

I Am a Professional 2.0 - Supporting the Quality of Vocational Education through Student Internships

The aim of the project is to support equal access to high-quality vocational education by enabling students pursuing qualifications as a photography and multimedia technician, electronics technician, and broadband electronic communication technician at Technical Secondary School No. 12 within the Complex of Technical and General Schools No. 3 named after Edward Abramowski to participate in internships with entrepreneurs.

Professional Development of Students in the Hospitality Technician Programme

The project, implemented until the end of June 2026, is addressed to students enrolled in the Hospitality Technician programme and teachers of practical vocational training from Technical Secondary School No. 2 within the Complex of Economic Schools named after Wojciech Korfanty. The subject of the project includes the organisation of individual and group career counselling for students, the organisation of vocational training courses for participants, as well as the upgrading of computer laboratories and the establishment of one hospitality training laboratory—a facility for practical vocational training reflecting real working conditions.

Attractive Vocational Education as a Step Towards the Future

The aim of the project is to develop vocational education at the Printing and Mechanical Schools Complex through the creation of modern learning conditions in adapted and newly equipped teaching laboratories, support for students through participation in courses and/or student internships, and the enhancement of qualifications of practical vocational training teachers through training, in the period from June 2024 to the end of June 2026. The project supports students enrolled in the following specialisations: digital graphics and printing technology, printing processes, advertising, information technology, and mechatronics.

Modern Vocational Education as an Opportunity for a Better Start

The aim of the project is to develop vocational education at School Complex No. 7 named after Stanisław Mastalerz through the creation of modern learning conditions in adapted and newly equipped teaching laboratories, as well as support in the form of vocational courses for students and practical vocational training teachers. The project is addressed to students and teachers of practical vocational training at School Complex No. 7 named after Stanisław Mastalerz. Support will be provided to students pursuing education in the following fields: automotive vehicle technology, road transport, rail transport, and electromechanics.

A Better Start 3 - A Better Start with Passion

The project is implemented by School and Preschool Complex No. 1. Its aim is to increase educational opportunities for children, particularly those with disabilities and special educational needs, by providing specialist, educational, and therapeutic support (additional language, mathematics, IT, speech therapy classes, as well as activities developing creativity and social skills). The project is addressed to students and teachers of Primary School No. 18 named after Karol Miarka, which is part of School and Preschool Complex No. 1, in the period from September 2024 to December 2026.

In Pursuit of Technology - Modern Vocational Education as a Response to Future Needs

The project is implemented by the Technical and General Education Schools Complex No. 2. Its aim, addressed to students and teachers, is to develop vocational education through the creation of modern learning conditions in adapted and newly equipped teaching laboratories, as well as support for students in the form of training/courses and for practical vocational training teachers in the form of training/courses/postgraduate studies. Within the project, in the period from September 2024 to the end of June 2026, support will be provided to students pursuing technical specialisations such as automation technician, electrician, energy technician, IT specialist, programmer, and robotics specialist.

I Am a Professional 3.0 - Development of Vocational Education through Courses for Students and Teachers and Support for Practical Training

The aim of the project is to enhance vocational qualifications, including practical skills, among students and teachers of practical vocational training at Technical Secondary School No. 12, which is part of the Technical and General Education Schools Complex No. 3 named after Edward Abramowski, offering education in photography and multimedia technology, electronics, and broadband electronic communication technology. This is achieved through the organisation of courses for students and teachers, as well as the upgrading and adaptation of teaching laboratories, thereby improving the quality of education at the institution. During the project, running from September 2024 to the end of June 2026, vocational courses are organised for participants. Practical training laboratories will be equipped with the necessary tools for conducting courses and with equipment reflecting contemporary labour market conditions.

With Us You Will Become a Professional

The aim of the project is to enhance vocational qualifications, including practical skills, of students and teachers of practical vocational training at Technical Secondary School No. 16 and Stage I Sectoral Vocational School No. 12, which are part of School Complex No. 2 named after Jarosław Iwaszkiewicz – Centre for Vocational and Continuing Education. This is achieved through the organisation of student internships, career counselling, courses and training for students and teachers, as well as the upgrading and adaptation of teaching laboratories, in the period from October 2024 to the end of June 2026.

Municipal Programme “Like a Fish in Water”

This is a universal swimming instruction project addressed to third-grade primary school students, conducted for one hour per week at municipal swimming pools over two semesters.

The objectives of the project are to teach swimming, prevent postural defects, and combat overweight among Katowice students. The City provides free access to infrastructure, instructors, teachers supervising the children, as well as transportation to classes. As a result of the programme’s implementation, the “Katowice Swimming Elite” project has been introduced. Each year, 48 of the most talented swimmers are selected from among third-grade participants; in the fourth grade, they begin advanced training, benefiting from free classes at three municipal swimming pools.

International Mobility

The City of Katowice, through its educational institutions, systematically applies for funding enabling groups of students and teachers to participate in international mobility programmes within European Union countries, including Erasmus+ and POWER. International mobility allows participants to acquire knowledge and experience, learn foreign languages, develop learning skills, and gain new competences essential for personal development, future employment, and active European citizenship.

These projects offer opportunities to develop skills in various areas, such as working in an international group, enhancing language competences, building social relationships, and planning and implementing project activities.

Bilingual Education

In Katowice, five primary schools and four general secondary schools offer bilingual classes. Additionally, at the Economic Schools Complex named after Wojciech Korfanty, bilingual classes with English as the medium of instruction are available for the programmes “hospitality technician” and “economics technician.” At the Adam Mickiewicz III General Secondary School, classes with elements of bilingual education in English operate, preparing students for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP). Furthermore, at the Ignacy Jan Paderewski X General Secondary School, classes have been established in which Chinese is taught as an additional subject. Students of the Major Henryk Sucharski XIV General Secondary School have the opportunity to learn Japanese, Spanish, and Korean.

Moreover, the International Programme of Universal Bilingualism is implemented in 68 municipal kindergartens in Katowice. The main objective of the programme is to provide children—particularly those of preschool age—with daily, contextual exposure to the English language during the period of heightened language sensitivity, ensuring that English never becomes a foreign language for them.

KATO4U – Youth Zones

Youth zones were established in 2024 at Primary School No. 10 named after Maria Skłodowska-Curie, part of School and Preschool Complex No. 24, and at the VII General Secondary School named after the Scouting Defenders of Katowice. These are spaces friendly to children and young people, offering opportunities for meetings, exchange of ideas, joint activities, and initiatives for the benefit of their community.

With the support of adults, children and young people can spend time there as they wish, implement their own ideas, passions, and initiatives, co-creating and co-managing the space entrusted to them in accordance with the principle “nothing about us without us.” These spaces are non-commercial, inclusive meeting places with peers, providing an environment for relaxation, leisure, and community building.

Projects of the Cultural Institution – Katowice City of Gardens

Katowice Orchestral Folk University – a broad educational project whose main component consists of regular music classes conducted in four primary schools in Katowice, encouraging children to engage in collective musical creation. For adult groups, the project offers family workshops in playing trumpets and cajóns, as well as the “Trumpet Clinic” project—trumpet lessons for adult amateurs without formal musical education.

Muzykodrom – a series of innovative music workshops for children addressed to several age groups, aimed at personal development and the expansion of cultural and social competences.

Academy of Experience – a programme of educational and workshop-based activities addressed to senior participants.

Gender equality

KATOWICE CITY ACTIVITIES

Elimination of all forms of violence

The City of Katowice provides assistance to individuals and families affected by violence. Following the identification of the problem, the assistance plan includes intervention, social, psychological, and legal support.

Social work for individuals affected by violence is carried out by social workers, family assistants, coordinators of foster care, assistants for homeless and disabled persons, streetworkers, psychologists, educators, therapists, and consultants.

Support includes individual specialist counselling, including legal assistance, group counselling, and outreach visits. In order to ensure the safety of victims of violence, the Centre provides shelter for individuals who, due to difficult circumstances, cannot remain in their place of residence. Assistance is also provided in the form of crisis intervention and psychological support.

A Support Group Programme for Persons Experiencing Violence is implemented, aiming to provide support and knowledge on legal, psychological, and social means of protection and addressing violence. For perpetrators of violence, a Psychological and Therapeutic Programme is available, along with individual educational support prior to participation in the programme.

The Municipal Social Welfare Centre in Katowice also cooperates with the Municipal Police Headquarters and representatives of other services and institutions within the framework of the Interdisciplinary Team for Counteracting Domestic Violence. In 2025, 8 meetings of the Interdisciplinary Team were held, along with 2,017 meetings of diagnostic and support groups.

In 2025, the “Blue Cards” procedure was conducted in 908 families, with 542 new procedures initiated. The situations of 308 reports concerning suspected domestic violence were examined, of which 23 resulted in the initiation of the “Blue Cards” procedure.

The Crisis Intervention Centre, as part of the nationwide campaign “Childhood Without Violence” implemented in 2025, conducted workshops entitled “My Role in the Group Has Power – Stop Violence,” organised a meeting with the Soroptimists of Silesia, and participated in the “White Ribbon” campaign organised by the Municipal Police Headquarters in Katowice.

Association for Assistance to Women and Children named after the Immaculate Mary

Located at 21 Zygmunta Krasińskiego Street, the Association provides legal and therapeutic counselling for women and children experiencing domestic violence, as well as the possibility of shelter for those in need. In 2025, approximately 90 individuals benefited from counselling services, while around 20 persons were provided with shelter. The City of Katowice allocated a total of PLN 347,356.78 for this purpose.

SOS 4 – Training of Open Opportunities

The project, implemented by the Silesian Technical Scientific Institutions, aims to improve the professional qualifications of students and teachers. It includes the organisation of internships, career counselling, and courses in artificial intelligence programming, cybersecurity, and robot programming. The project runs from July 2024 to June 2026 and involves 200 students and 14 teachers.

We Are Different in a School of Equal Opportunities

Primary School No. 11 named after Tadeusz Kościuszko implements activities aimed at increasing students’ educational opportunities by providing conditions for individual development. The project includes remedial classes, speech therapy, pedagogical therapy, the development of emotional and social competences, and mental health support. The project runs from September 2024 to June 2026 and benefits 80 students.

Plenipotentiary of the Mayor for Equal Treatment

The Mayor of the City of Katowice pursues a policy promoting equal treatment and non-discrimination in public, social, and economic life. For this reason, a Plenipotentiary for Equal Treatment has been appointed, whose responsibilities include promoting equality, initiating educational activities, and cooperating with social partners. The Katowice City Hall also implements a Gender Equality Plan, which includes, among others, training and awareness-raising activities aimed at integrating the equality perspective into official strategies and policies. An advisory body—the Council for Equal Treatment—has also been established.

Projects of the Cultural Institution – Katowice City of Gardens

Katowice JazzArt Festival, World Music Festival Gardens of Sounds, and City Anniversary “I Love Katowice” – in programming its key events, KMO applies the principle of gender equality, striving to maintain gender balance in the selection of performers. Additionally, the Katowice JazzArt Festival is part of the pan-European Keychange network, which promotes gender equality in artistic events.

Jazzcamp for Girls – a unique, nationwide, multi-day camp for female students of music schools, offering a broad programme aimed, among others, at developing jazz improvisation skills and teaching how to manage stage performance stress.

Clean water and sanitation

 

KATOWICE CITY ACTIVITIES

Construction of Retention Reservoirs

To date, 32 underground rainwater retention reservoirs have been constructed in the city. These reservoirs enable municipal services to use the collected rainwater, for example, for watering greenery or flushing the sewage system. One of the reservoirs has also been adapted for firefighting purposes. The total capacity of the constructed reservoirs is nearly 12,000 m³.

An additional benefit of reusing water by municipal services is the reduction in the consumption of potable water. In response to observed climate changes, further needs related to the expansion of the stormwater drainage system have been identified, including those focused on rainwater retention.

Katowickie Inwestycje S.A. continues investments related to the construction of new and the expansion of existing stormwater infrastructure. In the near future, the construction of additional retention reservoirs is planned in the areas of Biniszkiewicza Street, Słoneczna Street, and Sołtysia Street. In the longer term, the company plans to organise wastewater management and stormwater management, taking into account retention within the catchment area of the Mleczna River.

“We Capture Rainwater” Initiative

As part of the “We Capture Rainwater” campaign, the Municipal Housing Management Company installed 58 rainwater tanks in 2025 at residential buildings under its management (bringing the total to over 200 units in recent years). The tanks have an average capacity of 450 litres and are used for watering plants in courtyards and adjacent green areas. Water scarcity is a serious issue, but every small step towards eco-responsibility matters. This initiative may encourage other property managers, homeowners, and residents to conserve water.

“Catch the Water” Programme - Subsidies for Household Micro Retention

The programme provides targeted grants to residents for investments involving the purchase and installation of systems for collecting and utilising rainwater and meltwater at the place of origin within the City of Katowice. In 2025, subsidies were granted for the installation of 38 such systems, amounting to PLN 183,303.

Use of Rainwater at the Witosa Community Centre

The “Koszutka” Community Centre – “Culture Centre at Witosa” implements this goal by introducing solutions based on rational water resource management. Rainwater is used in the facility for flushing toilets, which reduces the consumption of potable water and alleviates pressure on local water resources. This solution aligns with the city’s climate adaptation strategy and promotes conscious and responsible use of natural resources in public spaces.

Katowice Tap Water – “Take a Sip from the Tap”

This initiative encourages residents to reduce the use of single-use plastics and to drink tap water. Katowice tap water is of very high quality; it undergoes regular physicochemical and microbiological testing and meets stringent standards set by Polish and European Union regulations.

Affordable and clean energy

KATOWICE CITY ACTIVITIES

Grant Funding from the Budget of the City of Katowice

The City offers targeted grants for changing heating systems: up to PLN 10,000 (80% of eligible costs) or PLN 6,000 (50% of eligible costs) for individuals, housing communities, and entrepreneurs using coal-based heating. In the years 2017–2024, nearly 1,500 non-ecological heat sources were replaced with funding amounting to PLN 89.4 million, and the installation of nearly 2,000 renewable energy sources was supported with over PLN 12.1 million. In 2025, grants were awarded to residents for changing heating systems in 692 buildings/residential units in the total amount of PLN 6.6 million, and 51 renewable energy installations were implemented in residential buildings/units, amounting to PLN 281,750.

Increasing Electricity Production from Renewable Energy Sources in Public Buildings of the City of Katowice

As part of activities related to the development of renewable energy sources (RES) in public buildings, in 2024 the City of Katowice submitted a number of applications for funding under Measure FESL.10.06 – “Development of distributed energy based on renewable energy sources” within the European Funds for Silesia 2021–2027 programme for the installation of photovoltaic systems and associated energy storage systems, and obtained funding for these projects in 2025.

In the years 2023–2024, under the project “Katowice – Green Energy – Stage I,” for which funding was obtained in 2025 from EU funds in the amount of PLN 291.6 thousand and from the state budget in the amount of PLN 38.9 thousand, photovoltaic installations with thermal energy storage systems were installed in three public buildings:
- at the newly established Katowice Music Education Centre “Dom Kilara” at 165 T. Kościuszki Street,
- at the expanded Primary School No. 21 with Integration Units named after Karol Miarka at 1 J. Malczewskiego Street,
- at the newly constructed Witosa Community Centre at 32 Kwiatkowskiego Street.

In 2025, additional funding was obtained from EU sources in the amount of PLN 951.3 thousand and from the state budget in the amount of PLN 229.8 thousand for the implementation of the project entitled “Increasing Electricity Production from Renewable Energy Sources in Public Buildings of the City of Katowice,” covering seven public buildings. The project includes the design and installation, along with accompanying works, of:
1. Rooftop photovoltaic installations (including two energy storage systems) at:
- Katowice City Hall at 4 Młyńska Street,
- Katowice Municipal Cemeteries at 9 Murckowska Street,
- District Labour Office at 14 Pośpiecha Street,
- Community Centre “Bogucice–Zawodzie” at 44a Markiefki Street,
- Jantor I and Jantor II Ice Rinks at 10 Nałkowska Street,
2. Ground-mounted photovoltaic installations (with energy storage systems) for:
- MOSiR “Słowian” at 99 1 Maja Street,
- MOSiR “Szopienice” at 16 11 Listopada Street.

In 2025, photovoltaic installations with energy storage systems were already installed at three locations: MOSiR “Słowian,” MOSiR “Szopienice,” and Community Centre “Bogucice–Zawodzie.” In 2026, following the completion of the tender procedure, the remaining installations will be carried out.

In 2025, three additional projects under the aforementioned measure were also completed with analogous funding obtained in 2025:
- “Installation of a photovoltaic system for the Spodek building in Katowice” – PLN 230.3 thousand (EU funds: PLN 181.8 thousand; state budget: PLN 48.5 thousand),
- “Installation of a photovoltaic system – Municipal Stadium in Katowice” – PLN 82.5 thousand (EU funds: PLN 64.9 thousand; state budget: PLN 17.6 thousand) – for the newly constructed municipal stadium “Arena Katowice” completed in 2024,
- “Installation of a photovoltaic system on the building of the International Congress Centre in Katowice” – PLN 103.8 thousand (EU funds: PLN 81.4 thousand; state budget: PLN 22.4 thousand).

As part of ongoing calls for funding announced in 2025 under Measure FESL.10.06 – Development of distributed energy based on renewable energy sources, the City also plans to implement further projects in this area. In 2025, an application was submitted for EU funding in the amount of PLN 905.9 thousand for the project entitled “Increasing Electricity Production from Renewable Energy Sources in Public Buildings of the City of Katowice – Stage II.” The project concerns the design and installation of photovoltaic systems, along with associated works, on the roofs of three buildings:
- the Youth Palace named after Prof. A. Kamiński at 26 Mikołowska Street,
- the Civil Registry Office at 12a Wolności Square,
- the Community Centre “Szopienice–Giszowiec” at 28 Hallera Street (including the installation of an energy storage system).

An application was also submitted for the project entitled “Increasing Electricity Production from Renewable Energy Sources in Public Buildings of the City of Katowice – Stage III,” which, following verification, includes the design and installation of photovoltaic systems together with the necessary infrastructure and associated works on the roofs of 14 buildings in Katowice
- Kindergarten No. 85, 20 Kwiatkowskiego Street,
- Kindergarten No. 41, 6 Jacka Koraszewskiego Street,
- Kindergarten No. 34, 84A Tysiąclecia Street,
- Primary School No. 59, 5 B. Chrobrego Street,
- Primary School No. 58 with Integration Units, 11 B. Krzywoustego Avenue,
- Primary School No. 37, 17 Józefa Lompy Street,
- Primary School No. 64, 27 Medyków Street,
- Primary School No. 10, 23 Sokolska Street,
- Primary School No. 39, 17 Księdza Franciszka Ścigały Street,
- Primary School No. 67 with Integration Units, 5 Zielona Street,
- School Complex No. 7, 228 Gliwicka Street,
- Vocational School Complex named after Romuald Mielczarski, 13 B. Krzywoustego Avenue,
- Special Vocational School Complex No. 6, 22 Rolna Street,
- I General Secondary School with Bilingual Units, 74 Sienkiewicza Street.

The requested funding amounts to PLN 2.29 million (EU funds: PLN 2.02 million; state budget: PLN 269.8 thousand).Further planned tasks concerning renewable energy installations, for which funding applications have been submitted, include:

“Installation of a Photovoltaic System (Part II) with a Heat Pump – Municipal Stadium in Katowice”

In the years 2026–2027, the City plans to implement this project with co-financing from EU funds in the amount of approximately PLN 3 million, state budget funds of approximately PLN 1.17 million, and funds from the National Recovery and Resilience Plan in the amount of PLN 325 thousand (for project documentation).

The scope of the project includes the construction of an additional photovoltaic installation with a capacity of approximately 300 kWp, to be installed on the roof of the sports hall within the Municipal Stadium complex in Katowice, equipped with a dedicated metering system (inverter/meter). A heat pump will be installed to serve as a heat source for heating the main pitch, thereby minimising the operation of the gas boiler system. Additionally, an electricity storage system with a capacity of 400 kW and 800 kWh, as well as a thermal energy storage system with a capacity of 40 m³, will be developed.The objective of the investment is to ensure the supply of electricity from renewable energy sources, reduce operating costs, increase the economic efficiency of municipal properties, and enable the storage and rational use of surplus electricity.

Construction of a Photovoltaic Installation with Energy Storage and a Direct Cable Line for the Katowice Gaming and Technology Hub

In the years 2026–2028, the City plans to implement this project with co-financing from EU funds in the amount of approximately PLN 3.2 million, state budget funds of approximately PLN 984 thousand, and funds from the National Recovery and Resilience Plan in the amount of PLN 225 thousand (for project documentation).

The project involves the installation of two photovoltaic systems with a capacity of 0.745–0.750 MWp each, together with energy storage systems with a capacity of 500 kW and 1,060 kWh each. The infrastructure will be constructed to supply the Katowice Gaming and Technology Hub being developed on the site of the former “Wieczorek” coal mine.

The project will also include an energy management system, a video monitoring system, an access control system, as well as fencing and lighting infrastructure. Its objective is to ensure an additional supply of electricity, reduce operating costs, improve the economic efficiency of municipal properties, and enable the storage of surplus electricity for use during periods without energy production. The installation of renewable energy systems will also contribute to reducing emissions of harmful substances into the atmosphere, thereby improving air quality.

Construction of a Photovoltaic Farm for Public Utility Needs in the City of Katowice

In the years 2026–2027, the implementation of the project is planned with co-financing from EU funds in the amount of approximately PLN 14.5 million and from the state budget in the amount of approximately PLN 1.9 million.

The scope of the project includes the design and construction of two photovoltaic installations with a capacity of 0.995–0.999 MWp each, together with accompanying infrastructure and energy storage systems for each installation with a capacity of 1 MW and 4 MWh. The energy generated by the photovoltaic plants will be used to supply Energy Consumption Points belonging to the City of Katowice, located outside the installation sites and forming a distributed structure, including selected public utility facilities and infrastructure. Energy transmission will take place via the distribution network.

The direct objective of the project is to support the development of distributed energy systems based on renewable energy sources, in line with the region’s energy transition strategy. The construction of photovoltaic installations will contribute to the implementation of green technologies, as well as to increasing the production and storage of energy from renewable sources. The project will ensure a zero-emission, independent, and secure source of energy, resulting in reduced CO₂ emissions and lower energy costs compared to traditional sources.

The objective of utilising clean energy is also reflected in the concept of two municipal swimming pools planned by the City under the project “Construction of Two Municipal Swimming Pools in Katowice,” described under Goal 3 “Good Health and Quality of Life.” This includes the use of mine water for heating purposes at the pools to be built at Boya-Żeleńskiego Street and Bederowiecka Street in Katowice.

The parameters of the water and its high flow rate (approximately 912 m³/h) support the feasibility of this solution as a reliable heat source for large-scale consumers. Water pumped from closed mines, due to its relatively high temperature, constitutes an efficient heat source for heat pump systems. In Poland, the use of mine water for heating is facilitated by the fact that, under water law regulations, such water is treated as wastewater and is typically discharged into surface waters. This makes it more accessible for heating purposes, while its utilisation also contributes to reducing water pollution, thereby supporting Goal 14 “Life Below Water.”

The municipal company Katowickie Inwestycje S.A., responsible, among others, for the development and modernisation of the water supply and sewage system in Katowice, is also implementing—based on funding obtained in 2025 under Measure 10.06 (EU funds of approximately PLN 3 million and state budget funds up to PLN 825.2 thousand)—the project entitled “Installation of Renewable Energy Systems for the Operation of Katowickie Inwestycje S.A. Infrastructure” in the years 2025–2026.

The project includes the design and installation of renewable energy systems, together with accompanying works, at two wastewater treatment plants and one sewage pumping station in Katowice:
- at the “Gigablok” wastewater treatment plant at 130 Obrońców Westerplatte Street: installation, together with associated works, of a cogeneration unit with a capacity of 400 kW, ground-mounted photovoltaic systems with installed capacities of 350 kWp and 150 kWp, and an energy storage system (capacity: 100 kWh) along with an energy management system (BMS);

The energy storage system with BMS is intended to fulfil two functions:
a) storing energy drawn from the power grid during periods of low electricity prices and supplying it back to the grid when prices are higher, based on market data, in order to achieve optimal price arbitrage;
b) storing surplus electricity generated by the photovoltaic installation and supplying it to the facility for its own consumption.

The BESS installation will be equipped with a BMS enabling peak load forecasting and automatic charging of the system, as well as advance planning of charging and discharging cycles.

As part of the project, the reconstruction of water supply and power networks will also be carried out to enable the implementation of the above scope.
- at the Panewniki wastewater treatment plant at 330c Panewnicka Street (Gościnna 330c): construction of a ground-mounted photovoltaic installation with an installed capacity of 60 kWp;
- at the sewage pumping station at L. Zamenhofa Street in Katowice–Szopienice: installation of photovoltaic systems with a total capacity of 30 kWp (one installation of 20 kWp and another of 10 kWp).

The City continues preparations for the thermal modernisation of additional public utility buildings, which will contribute to further reduction of so-called “low emissions” and improve the energy efficiency of buildings.

Currently, preparatory work is underway for the following projects:
- “Thermal Modernisation of the ‘Koszutka’ Community Centre at 47 Grażyńskiego Street in Katowice,”
- “Thermal Modernisation of the Zawodzie Department Building of the Bogucice–Zawodzie Community Centre at 13A Marcinkowskiego Street.”

The scope of works will include thermal modernisation, renovation, and construction upgrades to bring the buildings into compliance with current regulations, including fire safety requirements. In 2026, the City plans to announce tender procedures for the preparation of design documentation for these projects.

Implementation of the Government Programme “STOP Smog” in Cooperation with the GZM

The Upper Silesian–Zagłębie Metropolis, together with 11 municipalities—Będzin, Bieruń, Bobrowniki, Bytom, Dąbrowa Górnicza, Gierałtowice, Katowice, Mysłowice, Sośnicowice, Tychy, and Zabrze—implements the government programme “STOP SMOG.” Under the programme, 210 low-emission projects will be carried out in buildings inhabited by households affected by energy poverty across these municipalities. This includes the replacement of non-compliant heating sources in 199 single-family buildings, as well as other measures aimed at improving the energy efficiency of buildings.

The objective of the programme is to reduce pollutant emissions, improve air quality, and enhance the energy efficiency of single-family buildings through low-emission measures (including the replacement of inefficient coal-fired boilers and furnaces, thermal insulation of buildings, and replacement of windows and doors), particularly for the least affluent households.

In accordance with the agreement concluded with the GZM, 25 low-emission projects will be implemented within the City of Katowice. Following consultations with the Municipal Housing Management Authority, it was determined that these projects will be carried out in 10 single-family buildings belonging to the municipal housing stock and in 15 privately owned single-family buildings meeting the requirements of the Act on Supporting Thermomodernisation and Renovation, provided they meet the criteria set out in the project recruitment regulations.

The implementation of the project within the Katowice municipality is scheduled for the years 2022–2026, with the physical execution of works planned for 2026.

Implementation of the ELENA Project

In cooperation with the GZM, the City of Katowice, together with 30 other stakeholders, signed an agreement related to the implementation of the ELENA programme, which has received funding from the European Investment Bank. The programme aims to improve and enhance the living conditions of residents in tenement buildings covered by the investments by increasing the energy efficiency of buildings, resulting in cost savings for residents.

The City of Katowice committed to preparing technical documentation for the comprehensive thermal modernisation of four residential buildings. This documentation was completed in 2025, while construction works are planned for the years 2026–2027.

Municipal Energy Centre

The Municipal Energy Centre in Katowice is an information point providing residents with technical advice and information on available support schemes, including municipal grants, the “Clean Air” programme, “My Heat,” “My Electricity,” “Warm Apartment,” “My Water,” the principles of the thermomodernisation tax relief, and provisions of the anti-smog resolution.

Since its establishment in 2018 at 2 Młyńska Street, the Centre has provided 37,900 consultations (in person, by email, and by phone) by the end of 2025.

In 2025, staff of the Centre participated in the event “Forest Family Picnic – Eco-Responsibly,” organised by the Environmental Shaping Department of the Katowice City Hall, where residents could obtain information about current grant programmes and obligations arising from the so-called anti-smog resolution.

“Silesia. Restoring the Blue Sky” – Comprehensive Implementation of the Air Protection Programme for the Silesian Voivodeship

Katowice is one of the cities participating in the LIFE project “Silesia. Restoring the Blue Sky,” the largest area-based project in Europe focused on air quality protection. Since 1 April 2022, residents of Katowice have been able to benefit from the assistance of an “Eco-advisor” under the project.

The main objective of the project is the effective and efficient implementation of the Air Protection Programme for the Silesian Voivodeship, adopted in 2020 by the Silesian Regional Assembly. The project involves the development and implementation of remedial actions aimed at improving air quality and reducing the negative impact of air pollution on the health and lives of residents.

The project leader is the Silesian Voivodeship. In addition to the leader and the City of Katowice, 88 other partners participate in the project, including 79 municipalities, cities, and counties, as well as 9 supporting and expert institutions.

Implementation of the “Clean Air” Programme

On 4 December 2020, the City of Katowice and the Voivodeship Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management in Katowice signed an agreement on cooperation in the implementation of the “Clean Air” programme. Since 24 May 2021, a Municipal Consultation and Information Point for the “Clean Air” programme has been operating at the Municipal Energy Centre.

Residents can receive assistance in completing and submitting applications for funding and payment requests under the programme. The service is available to all residents applying for basic and increased levels of funding without pre-financing. A total of 303 funding applications have been submitted through the consultation point.

Implementation of the ELENA Programme in Cooperation with the GZM

In December 2021, the City of Katowice, together with 30 other stakeholders, signed an agreement to implement the ELENA (European Local Energy Assistance) programme. ELENA is a joint initiative of the European Investment Bank and the European Commission aimed at supporting investments in energy efficiency and renewable energy through grants to public authorities and legal entities.

Under the programme, in 2025 the City of Katowice prepared technical documentation for four residential buildings. The implementation phase is scheduled for the years 2023–2027. The ELENA programme is financed under the Horizon 2020 framework.

Energy and Water Carrier Monitoring System with Control Capabilities in Public Buildings of the City of Katowice – SMIS

In 2021, a comprehensive energy management system called the “Energy and Water Carrier Monitoring System with Operation Services in Public Buildings of the City of Katowice – SMIS” was implemented, expanding the building-level monitoring system in place since 2012. By 2024, 71 public buildings were covered by the monitoring system. The implementation was preceded by an inventory of buildings, enabling, among other things, the determination of the total cost of system deployment and maintenance. The aim of the project is to monitor and analyse the full energy situation in public buildings in order to optimise energy and water consumption while maintaining optimal comfort levels.

The system monitors, among others, electricity meters, heat meters, water meters, heat node controllers, ventilation system controllers, boiler system controllers, and additional indoor air temperature sensors. The project was implemented in two main stages over four years, including the deployment of a central IT system in 2021 and the establishment of an operator station at the Katowice City Hall.

The second stage (2022–2024) included system operation and expansion, primarily involving monitoring and control services provided by an external company, system updates, and the introduction of new functionalities, including real-time data visualisation e-services.

The total cost of the project in the years 2021–2024 amounted to just over PLN 1 million. As part of further development, building automation systems are being designed for facilities planned for thermomodernisation, including additional comfort sensors and control and measurement equipment for monitoring and managing heating and ventilation systems. In the coming years, further expansion of the system is planned, including the integration of additional buildings and the implementation of new functionalities.

Decent work and economic growth

KATOWICE CITY ACTIVITIES

“Invest in Growth - Upgrade Your Skills”

Katowice City, the local employment office (PUP Katowice), and the Rawa.Ink incubator run a project “Invest in Growth - Upgrade Your Skills” aimed at acquiring, improving, or adapting the skills and qualifications needed in the labor market for employees in Katowice. High-quality training and courses are provided from September 1, 2024, to August 31, 2026.

The program targets 150 employees working under short-term or civil law contracts. According to individual development plans (IPD), participants may take part in training in certified exams, professional skill improvement, IT, and soft skills.

Entrepreneurship Promotion

PUP Katowice provides funds for starting a business and reimburses costs for equipping or upgrading workstations. Entrepreneurs can receive over 50,000 PLN in support when starting a business. In 2025, funds were awarded to 139 people. Refundable support for equipment or workstations ranges from 35,000 to 50,000 PLN, depending on the period of employment of the unemployed person.

Sustainable Practices Factory

Katowice is part of an international project called the Sustainable Practices Factory. Participating cities include Saint-Étienne (France), Sierre (Switzerland), Monastir (Tunisia), and Tamatave (Madagascar). The project addresses three main challenges:
- Exchange of good practices in entrepreneurship and internationalization-  Aims to facilitate study visits and business missions in partner cities for SMEs and start-ups, offering logistical, organizational, and workspace support.
- Exchange of good practices and creation of new tools for vocational education -  Focuses on exchanging vocational schools, currently in areas such as gastronomy, hospitality, fashion, and design, with plans to expand to eco-friendly and passive construction.
- Exchange of good practices in social economy and professional inclusion-  Focuses on sharing practices in creating business models for social economy entities.

In November 2024, an exchange took place between beneficiaries of Katowice’s “Lokal na Kulturę” program and partners from Saint-Étienne, aiming to share experiences in grassroots initiatives and learn about innovative places that integrate and animate local communities. Initiatives from Saint-Étienne supporting social actions and the social economy, as well as bottom-up projects in city districts enhancing life quality, integration, and resident activation, were included.

Katowice - City of Professionals

The program is targeted at students in grade VII of Katowice primary schools and is implemented in close cooperation with local companies as well as first-level vocational schools and technical schools. It consists of four complementary stages:
- Homeroom lesson, during which students acquire fundamental knowledge about the possibilities of choosing a professional education path;
- Study visits to companies operating in Katowice, where students have the opportunity to experience various work environments and professions “behind the scenes”;
- Meetings at technical and vocational schools, which allow students to familiarize themselves with the educational facilities and academic offerings;
- Summary lesson, during which students analyze the experiences and knowledge gained in order to consciously plan their further educational development.

In the previous six editions, there were 319 study visits to companies and nearly 347 visits to vocational and first-level technical schools, and 52 letters of intent were signed. Students had the opportunity to explore a variety of professional paths, including but not limited to: cook, bus driver, automotive mechanic, conductor, hotel technician, CNC operator, electrician, lathe operator, painter-programmer, and construction technician.

In the seventh edition for the 2025/2026 school year, from November 19, 2025, to January 30, 2026, 72 study visits are planned in 13 companies that have enrolled in the program. Within the framework of the seventh edition, students will visit the following companies: Alstom Polska S.A., Drogopol Sp. z o.o., Essendi Poland S.A., Hotel Marysin Dwór Adam Milner S.A., Koleje Śląskie Sp. z o.o., Przedsiębiorstwo Komunikacji Miejskiej Katowice Sp. z o.o., Qubus Hotel Management Sp. z o.o., Rockwell Automation Sp. z o.o., Łukasiewicz Research Network – Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity, Tramwaje Śląskie S.A., Stosowanie Maszyn Ewa Śliwińska, Silesian Chamber of Tourism, and Novotel Katowice Centrum.

Invest in Development – Enhance Your Qualifications

The project aims at acquiring, improving, or adapting competencies and qualifications necessary for the labor market among people employed in Katowice through the implementation of high-quality training and courses from September 1, 2024, to August 31, 2026. The training is targeted at 150 individuals working within the city, employed under short-term contracts or civil law agreements. Project participants, in accordance with the Individual Action Plan (IPD) indicating the desired qualifications, can benefit from the following areas of training: preparation for certified exams, improvement of professional skills and qualifications, IT training, soft skills development, enhancement of skills necessary to work in the green economy sector, and skills development aligned with local specialization needs.

The outcome of this form of support is professional and social activation, as well as the alignment of participants’ professional qualifications with the needs of the local labor market. The project is co-financed from European Funds for Silesia 2021–2027 under the European Social Fund. The total value of the project is PLN 1,152,000.00.

SMART LAB – Academic Accelerator

The “SMART LAB – Academic Accelerator” project arises from the task “Strengthening the potential of higher education institutions in preparing graduates for labor market requirements and entrepreneurs’ needs,” included in the agreement of the Mayor of Katowice with the residents. Project participants were student teams nominated by public higher education institutions in Katowice. Each university could nominate two teams developing innovative ideas with potential for growth in the form of a start-up.

Within the accelerator, three training blocks were conducted over five training days, during which participants acquired knowledge in business modeling, market strategy development, and preparation of marketing communications. They also met with an expert in preparing investor presentations. Leading experts from the Polish start-up ecosystem, who had previously conducted other training projects with the City Entrepreneurship Incubator Rawa.Ink, including the “Start-up Mine” competition, were invited to conduct the trainings.

In the first quarter of 2026, a Demo Day is planned to confirm the development of the projects. The most promising teams will receive a “golden ticket” granting direct advancement to the final stage of the “Start-up Mine” competition.

“Buy Local - Support for Real”. Assistance for Local Entrepreneurs

The city of Katowice encourages local entrepreneurs to take part in the “Buy Local – Support for Real” initiative, which has been met with considerable interest. The programme provides nearby businesses with an opportunity to promote their products and services, while residents are given a chance to demonstrate neighbourly solidarity and offer tangible support to small and medium-sized enterprises operating in Katowice. Across the three editions held up to 2025, a total of 84 entrepreneurs have benefited from the programme.

Local entrepreneurs constitute a significant asset of our city. Their activity has a direct impact on the scale and economic role of Katowice. They create jobs for the residents of Katowice and pay their taxes locally,” says the Mayor of Katowice, Marcin Krupa.

Among the entrepreneurs who have joined the initiative are, among others, tour guides, jewellers, upholstery workshops, cafés and restaurants, children’s play centres, optical salons, second-hand shops, cosmetics manufacturers, confectionery producers, companies offering training and coaching services, as well as sellers of artistic handicrafts. The initiative has also attracted pet shops, grooming salons, florists, stores specialising in healthy food, school supplies and vintage items, language schools, portrait studios, music therapy practices, and many others.

The initial editions of the initiative proved to be a success. Entrepreneurs who participated were often individuals driven by great passion and a strong commitment to the local community. Participation in the programme provides companies with promotion through the city’s social media channels, as well as a professionally produced promotional video showcasing their activities. In addition, all participants receive a dedicated sticker indicating their involvement in the initiative, which they may display at their premises. Information about their business activity is also published on the initiative’s official website.

Entrepreneurs and service providers may join the initiative provided that they:
- are registered as residents of or live in Katowice,
- conduct business activity at an address located in Katowice,
- pay income tax in Katowice on the business activity submitted to the programme,
- do not operate under a franchise agreement,
- have not participated in previous editions of the initiative.

Industry, innovation and infrastructure

    

KATOWICE CITY ACTIVITIES

The Business Tourism Market in Katowice Continues to Grow

Business tourism plays a significant role in the economy of Katowice, not only in terms of promotion but also by generating substantial revenue for numerous entities operating in the city. The total expenditure of participants attending all business events and conference meetings held in Katowice in 2025 exceeded PLN 340 million. In 2025, Katowice hosted 5,779 conferences and other business events, with a total of 733,849 participants.

The transformation of Katowice over the years—repeatedly confirmed by high rankings and prestigious titles awarded to the city (such as UNESCO Creative City of Music and European City of Science 2024)—ensures that the capital of the Silesian Voivodeship remains at the forefront of urban centres attractive to the business sector.

Katowice City Break Application

Explore and discover the beauty of our city! Tourists visiting Katowice, as well as local residents, can take advantage of the City Break mobile application, which, once downloaded, guides users through the most important tourist attractions of Katowice. It enables users to explore, among other things, selected street art works, functionalist architecture along the Modernism Trail, and to experience the unique post-industrial atmosphere of the charming Nikiszowiec district.

The application also features the famous Katowice “beboks” – users are encouraged to engage in an interactive urban exploration game while searching for these friendly little creatures. In addition to a standard audio guide function, users can participate in quizzes testing their knowledge of the attractions they have discovered. The application is available free of charge for both Android and iOS devices.

We warmly invite you to download the free application and discover Katowice.

Android
iOS

Municipal Management System – Katowice Spatial Information Infrastructure (MSZ-KIIP)

It is estimated that as much as 80–90% of the information used in public administration has a spatial reference and can be located on a map, for example based on an address, geographical coordinates, or a cadastral plot number. Thanks to the data collected within the MSZ-KIIP system in the form of thematic layers (such as plots, buildings, roads, local spatial development plans, address points, etc.), information concerning a specific area can be analysed in an interdisciplinary manner. In 2025, the system recorded over 154,000 external visits, indicating a growing level of interest in MSZ-KIIP compared to previous years.

Katowice Gaming and Technology Hub

One of the key investments undertaken by the city of Katowice is the Gaming and Technology Hub, implemented as part of the European Union project entitled “District of New Technologies – Katowice Gaming and Technology Hub.” In the historic district of Nikiszowiec, on the site of the former “Wieczorek” Hard Coal Mine, around the “Pułaski” shaft, infrastructure will be developed following environmental remediation and the revitalisation of historic buildings. This infrastructure will bring together entrepreneurs from the IT sector.

The Hub will serve as a shared space for technology companies, game developers, and the e-sports community involved in organising competitions, tournaments, and broadcasting gaming events. The underlying concept of the Hub is to foster innovation, provide favourable development conditions for small and medium-sized enterprises, attract new companies to the sector, and concentrate industry potential in a single location.

As part of the Hub, plans include the creation of office space (for lease, co-working areas, and facilities dedicated to acceleration activities, i.e. providing business support to emerging, creative entrepreneurs), laboratories, recording studios, production studios for e-sports, film and television studios, an educational centre, exhibition and event spaces, along with supporting services such as catering, sports, and recreation facilities.

Additionally, the project предусматриes the construction of an underground passage connecting historic buildings, the development of renewable energy installations for the generation of electricity and heat, the construction of roads and parking facilities, remediation and development of adjacent areas, as well as the purchase, delivery, and installation of equipment.

The objectives of the project are as follows:

1. To reintegrate into economic and social circulation the facilities and the area surrounding the “Pułaski” shaft of the former “Wieczorek” coal mine.
2. To establish a centre for the development of creative and high-tech industries to support effective transformation.
3. To strengthen the development potential and competitiveness of companies in the gaming and creative sectors.
4. To implement effective mechanisms aligning education and training processes with the needs of creative and high-tech industries.

In 2025, the project—scheduled for completion in 2028—received European Union funding under the programme “Innovative Infrastructure Supporting the Economy” (FESL.10.05), in the amount of PLN 309.4 million.

Project Implementation Stages

Stage I – District of New Technologies – Katowice Gaming and Technology Hub

The first stage of works includes the revitalisation and adaptation of historic buildings of the former “Wieczorek” Hard Coal Mine, including the complex of the “Pułaski” Shaft, which is listed in the register of monuments. In August 2025, a contract for construction works was signed, with the completion period set at 29 months and an additional 3 months allocated for acceptance procedures.

The revitalised space will provide facilities for modern companies, as well as shared spaces, conference rooms, and creative zones. Works carried out in 2025 focused on land remediation, demolition of secondary structures, and the execution of foundational and preparatory works related to structural reinforcement. These activities constituted a necessary phase for the construction of underground levels, including an underground connector integrating the buildings, with continuation planned for 2026.

Stage II – District of New Technologies – Katowice Gaming and Technology Hub

As part of Stage II, a hall with an area of approximately 5,000 m² will be constructed, designed to allow flexible division of space and the simultaneous hosting of multiple events. The facility will function as television and film studios, as well as a venue for organising e-sports competitions.

The project also предусматриes the inclusion of control rooms, production support facilities, training rooms for players, and the construction of an underground car park. The design documentation has been completed and approved, and preparations are currently underway to initiate the tender procedure for selecting the contractor responsible for construction works.

At the same time, a complementary investment project is being prepared—an EU-funded initiative entitled “District of New Technologies – Development of the Poniatowski Shaft Area,” for which an application for funding will be submitted in 2026 under Action 10.9: Reuse of post-industrial, devastated and degraded areas for regional development (ZIT).

In 2025, design documentation was developed covering the area of the “Poniatowski” shaft in Katowice, located on Szopienicka Street. The site is intended to become a space dedicated to residents of the district and the entire city, as well as tourists visiting the area. The project предусматриes, among other elements, the adaptation of buildings and open spaces to new social and educational functions. The anticipated EU co-financing amounts to PLN 858,500.

Katowice Intelligent Monitoring and Analysis System (KISMIA)

KISMIA is an important tool supporting municipal services and enhancing the safety of residents. Through the use of modern technologies and analytical systems, it enables faster responses to emergency situations and the monitoring of key areas of the city, thereby directly contributing to improved public safety.

The system comprises 538 cameras (including 108 integrated from the Katowice Intelligent Transport Management System – ITS), of which 49 are dedicated to recording vehicle registration numbers along major transport routes. Cameras are installed in public spaces, including family activity zones, following consultations with residents and relevant municipal services responsible for safety and public order.

Since 2021, the system’s functionality has been expanded through a service cooperation platform, which also allows residents—via a dedicated portal—to monitor air pollution levels, road conditions, and water levels in rivers within the administrative boundaries of Katowice in real time. Thanks to residents actively engaging through the Participatory Budget mechanism, the system continues to be gradually expanded with additional camera locations.

“Startup Mine” Competition

“Startup Mine” is a competition aimed at identifying young, promising, and innovative companies from Katowice. The initiative has enabled an assessment of the local start-up ecosystem and constitutes an important element in building an innovation ecosystem in Katowice.

Since 2024, the competition has been open to residents and students operating across the Upper Silesian-Zagłębie Metropolis, as well as innovative companies and entrepreneurs who have been in operation for no more than five years. In 2025, the competition partner was also the InCredibles programme of Sebastian Kulczyk, whose representative participated as an observer of the jury’s work.

Submitted projects were evaluated by a panel composed of experts, business practitioners, and representatives of research institutions. Projects were assessed based on their level of innovation, business and market potential, as well as the preparedness of the team to implement the innovation.

Finalists also received substantive support in the form of a two-day bootcamp, which included sessions on business modelling and the preparation of investor presentations (pitch decks). The prize pool for the 5th edition of the competition amounted to PLN 100,000, including two-year desk rental packages in the individual workspace zone of the Municipal Entrepreneurship Incubator Rawa.Ink.

Winners of the 5th edition:

• 1st Place – ThinkPath.ai: PLN 50,000, including a two-year desk rental package at Rawa.Ink, awarded for a next-generation educational platform.
• 2nd Place – VisionAccess AI: PLN 30,000, including a two-year desk rental package at Rawa.Ink, awarded for a platform analysing accessibility of spaces for people with disabilities. The winner was also selected for the InCredibles programme of Sebastian Kulczyk.
• 3rd Place – VermoHub: PLN 20,000, including a two-year desk rental package at the Municipal Entrepreneurship Incubator Rawa.Ink, awarded for a tool enabling the development of intelligent measurement systems as well as process prediction and optimisation.

Hackathon Katowice – Youth Innovation for the City

Hackathon Katowice is a recurring initiative organised by the Investor Services Department of the Katowice City Hall. It brings together young people, schools, business partners, and public administration to collaborate on addressing real development challenges faced by the city.

The event is carried out in cooperation with business partners such as ING, Fujitsu, Kyndryl, and Accenture, as well as with the participation of Katowice-based schools, including Śląskie Techniczne Zakłady Naukowe, the Complex of Printing and Mechanical Schools, the X Secondary School named after Ignacy Jan Paderewski, and the II Secondary School named after Maria Konopnicka.

The hackathon fosters creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills among young participants, using the design thinking methodology. Participants work on concepts and prototypes of solutions addressing real needs of the city and its residents.

The best projects are selected for further implementation work in cooperation with the City of Katowice, ensuring that the ideas developed by young people have a genuine opportunity to become practical improvements in the functioning of the city.

“Innovations in Bits. Play. Code. Connect!”

The educational project entitled “Innovations in Bits. Play. Code. Connect!” is implemented in cooperation with Little Bit Academy (a laureate of the 2nd edition of the “Startup Mine” competition) and is addressed to students of grades 6–8 of primary schools, first-year secondary school students, as well as teachers.

During the programme, both students and teachers have the opportunity to use tools such as Roblox Studio (for creating games and scripts in the Lua programming language), Miro, and Google Drive. Additionally, teachers are introduced to the possibilities of using ChatGPT in education.

Throughout the project, participants acquire practical skills in programming, game design, and the use of modern digital tools. The game development process also stimulates creativity, encouraging participants to express their own ideas and solutions. Furthermore, teamwork contributes to the development of interpersonal, communication, and collaborative skills. The project inspires participants by opening up new perspectives related to technology and the gaming industry.

The project предусматриes five 90-minute sessions for students and one session of up to 90 minutes for teachers in each participating school.

• 1st Edition (2023) – 30 workshops for students and 6 training sessions for teachers in 6 schools in Katowice (147 students and 72 teachers).
• 2nd Edition (2024) – 30 workshops for students and 6 training sessions for teachers in 6 schools in Katowice (125 students and 64 teachers).
• 3rd Edition (2025) – 30 workshops for students and 6 training sessions for teachers in 6 primary schools in Katowice (133 students and 53 teachers).

Startups Networking & Innovations Platform (SNIP)

The Startups Networking & Innovations Platform (SNIP) is an initiative aimed at fostering cooperation between startups, industry, experienced businesses, and local government. The project seeks to unlock the potential of Silesian industry and support its innovative transformation, particularly in the context of the region’s ongoing economic transition.

SNIP takes the form of a series of meetings combining knowledge and experience sharing with networking opportunities. The initiative is organised by the Silesian Startup Foundation, the Marshal’s Office of the Silesian Voivodeship, InSilesia, the Katowice Special Economic Zone, the City of Katowice, and the Municipal Entrepreneurship Incubator Rawa.Ink. The partner of the initiative is the Upper Silesian-Zagłębie Metropolis.

During 2025, six meetings were held between March and November. Three meetings took place in Katowice, while the remaining ones were organised in other cities of the region: Rybnik, Dąbrowa Górnicza, and Gliwice. Each meeting featured 3–4 presentations, including at least one dedicated to a startup developing innovative solutions for industry, along with a networking session.

Meeting schedule:

• 11 March 2025, Katowice: Innovation Management as a Key to Success
• 15 April 2025, Katowice: Green Technologies
• 17 June 2025, Dąbrowa Górnicza: Challenges in the Automotive Industry
• 9 September 2025, Rybnik: Energy of the Future – New Technologies and Sector Transformation
• 21 October 2025, Katowice: AI and Cybersecurity in Industry
• 25 November 2025, Gliwice: Automation and Robotics

Podcast by Rawa.Ink

Original podcasts produced by the Municipal Entrepreneurship Incubator Rawa.Ink are recorded in a professional podcast studio located within Rawa.Ink, equipped with high-quality audio recording equipment. The podcasts focus on entrepreneurship, business, innovation, and the startup ecosystem, among other topics.

New episodes are released every second Thursday on the Spotify platform. The podcasts contribute to fostering and activating the community of innovators in Katowice.

By the end of 2025, a total of 58 episodes had been published, including 18 released in 2025 alone.

IoT Innovation Showroom

In order to facilitate access to technology and expand the availability of solutions for those interested in technology, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity, the first IoT Innovation Showroom in Poland was established in 2021. The Showroom is a cyber-physical space located at the Municipal Entrepreneurship Incubator Rawa.Ink (Teatralna 17a) in Katowice.

It provides an excellent opportunity not only for the IoT sector in Poland to showcase its achievements, but also for local governments and small and medium-sized enterprises to explore technological innovations and solutions that are already available for implementation.

The aim of the Showroom is also to integrate technology companies, enable the testing of proposed solutions, and provide training opportunities. In the very centre of Katowice, visitors can, among other things, learn how satellite data supports cities in responding to meteorological conditions, and how sensors inform residents about current air quality levels. The IoT Showroom also introduces cybersecurity technologies and the field of artificial intelligence.

The Showroom is continuously expanded with new solutions in cooperation with the SINOTAIC (Polish Cluster of Internet of Things and Artificial Intelligence). The network of IoT Innovation Showrooms is being systematically developed by the SINOTAIC cluster, with additional locations established in Gorzów Wielkopolski, Gdynia, and Opole. Furthermore, users have access to two so-called living labs located in Kamienna Góra and Jelenia Góra.

Reduced inequalities

KATOWICE CITY ACTIVITIES

“Katowice Senior in the City” Programme (2022–2027)

The programme is addressed to senior residents of Katowice aged 60 and above. The implementation of various initiatives within the programme is aimed, among other things, at preventing loneliness and social marginalisation among older people, supporting the effective use of free time after retirement, increasing the activity and participation of seniors in social life, promoting health and educational activities, and organising physical activity programmes.

Senior Professional Activation Incubator

As of 1 June 2025, the Act on the Labour Market and Employment Services entered into force, extending support to seniors seeking employment. Employers and entrepreneurs may now apply for financial support covering up to half of the minimum wage when employing a senior job seeker. In 2025, career advisors and employment counsellors actively engaged in ongoing senior-focused initiatives, such as Senior’s Day in Katowice, as well as conferences and meetings. In response to demographic changes, the Senior Professional Activation Incubator also aims to increase employers’ awareness of the positive effects of employing retired individuals. Addressing this issue is facilitated, among other means, through ongoing contact with employers submitting job offers.

Digital Support Points for Seniors

The project предусматриes free workshops on the use of smartphones, computers, and tablets. During three-hour sessions held in a relaxed atmosphere, seniors learn, among other skills, how to operate a smartphone, write SMS messages or emails, send photos to their relatives, save money while shopping, and use many other practical functionalities.

In addition, within the framework of the Digital Support Points, trainers also provide individual digital advisory services. Small group sizes are ensured, and each participant is provided with a smartphone purchased by the City of Katowice for the duration of the training.In 2025, the project was implemented on behalf of the city by the Fundacja Klub KONTRA, which provided trainers with experience in delivering IT training programmes. In 2025, Katowice allocated PLN 120,000 to this initiative, and 887 individuals benefited from the advisory services.

“Personal Assistant for Persons with Disabilities” Programme

For Local Government Units 2025 Edition, financed from the Solidarity Fund (Ministry of Family and Social Policy).The Municipal Social Welfare Centre in Katowice obtained funding in the amount of PLN 1,473,645.00 for the implementation of this programme.

In 2025, 123 individuals benefited from personal assistant services for persons with disabilities, with a total of 31,457.5 hours of assistance provided. In response to the high demand for such services among residents with disabilities, additional funds from the city budget of Katowice were allocated, enabling a further 16 individuals to receive support amounting to 4,007 hours of services.

“Respite Care” Programme

For Local Government Units 2025 Edition, financed from the Solidarity Fund (Ministry of Family and Social Policy). The Municipal Social Welfare Centre secured PLN 1,294,176.00 to implement this programme (2025 edition), delivered in the form of either day care or 24-hour residential care.

As part of the day care model, support is provided through shared activities such as games, recreational activities, walks, general fitness exercises, social skills training, independent living training, and sessions focused on personal hygiene. During the reporting period, 77 individuals (including 57 adults and 20 children) benefited from day care services, with a total of 18,240 hours delivered.

Within the 24-hour residential care model, services include support with daily functioning, assistance with basic household and personal care activities, and shared time through games, educational activities, and leisure pursuits. The objective of this form of care is to improve quality of life, support daily functioning, compensate for deficits, and assist in educational activities. Between January and the end of September 2025, 67 individuals benefited from residential care, with a total of 910 days provided.

Transport Services for Residents with Disabilities

The City of Katowice provides transport services dedicated to residents with disabilities. These services operate not only within Katowice but also across neighbouring municipalities, from Monday to Saturday between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., and on Sundays and public holidays between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. In 2025, 2,804 individuals used the service. The total value of the contract for specialised transport services in 2025 amounted to PLN 260,824.80.

Guide for Persons with Disabilities – “Katowice Without Barriers”

The “Katowice Without Barriers” guide supports persons with disabilities by providing information on the accessibility of public buildings, restaurants, shops, and places of worship. It also enables users to plan leisure activities in locations adapted to their needs. The guide is intended not only for persons with disabilities, but also for their families, caregivers, and all individuals working for their benefit. The operation and updating of the guide is managed by the Fundacja Klub KONTRA.

“Migam Interpreter – Connect with an Interpreter”

To facilitate communication between persons with hearing impairments and the Katowice City Hall, a service enabling online connection with a sign language interpreter has been introduced. The service is available at the Municipal Social Welfare Centre and via the Katowice.eu website.

Communication takes place through a video connection on a computer, tablet, or smartphone. A sign language interpreter, visible on the screen, mediates the conversation between the client and the official on matters related to services provided by the Municipal Social Welfare Centre in Katowice.

Sustainable cities and communities

The world is becoming increasingly urbanized. Since 2007, more than half the world’s population has been living in cities, and that share is projected to rise to 60 per cent by 2030. 
Cities and metropolitan areas are powerhouses of economic growth—contributing about 60 per cent of global GDP. However, they also account for about 70 per cent of global carbon emissions and over 60 per cent of resource use. 
Rapid urbanization is resulting in a growing number of slum dwellers, inadequate and overburdened infrastructure and services (such as waste collection and water and sanitation systems, roads and transport), worsening air pollution and unplanned urban sprawl. 
The impact of COVID-19 will be most devastating in poor and densely populated urban areas, especially for the one billion people living in informal settlements and slums worldwide, where overcrowding also makes it difficult to follow recommended measures such as social distancing and self-isolation. 
The UN food agency, FAO, warned that hunger and fatalities could rise significantly in urban areas, without measures to ensure that poor and vulnerable residents have access to food.

KATOWICE CITY ACTIVITIES

KATOobywatel

The KATOobywatel project is a social innovation to build civil society, involving citizens in activities for the sustainable development of the city. Here, the city plays the role of initiator, gives tools and pretexts for collective engagement, creates actions, campaigns and launches apps to report and fix problems in the city space, for example. Amongst other things, residents work together with the city to sow meadows and build community gardens, clean up and practice zero waste, hang nesting boxes and feeders. The project also included the first parklet in Katowice in ul. Teatralna and the decoration of electrical boxes with artistic graffiti promoting Katowice's modernist architecture. Katowice's partners include non-governmental organisations, city organisational units, institutions, local entrepreneurs and artists. The project won the Transformative Action Award for Transformative Action of the Year 2020, and was also a finalist in the Innovation in Policy 2020 competition in the ecology category. In the same year, it also won a distinction in the Polish Press Agency's “Innowacyjny Samorząd” (Innovative Local Government) competition in the large cities category. 

Katowizje - firma społecznie odpowiedzialna (Katowizje - a socially responsible company)

This is a project to identify CSR (corporate social responsibility) leaders among local SME companies that invest, create and implement innovative tools and solutions to serve local communities and the environment.

As part of the fifth edition of the “Katowizje - a socially responsible company” competition, prizes were awarded:

First place and a prize of PLN 3,000 was awarded to 3 Soft S.A. for its activities on behalf of disabled children, the organisation of children's winter holidays, the organisation of the tournament, the purchase of tickets and intra-company auctions, which contributed to helping the charges of the Child and Youth Welfare Organisation “Dom Aniołów Stróżów” (House of the Guardian Angels) and children from orphanages.

It is also a reward for launching a drop under the auspices of the Polish Red Cross to support flood victims. These activities supported actions such as: Akcja Ciacho, Dobro Pączkuje, Podlesianka Cup, Legendarny Kosmiczny Mecz, Anielskie Lato, Wsparcie Rajdu Złombol, Piernikowy Poczęstunek, 3 Soft dla powodzian.

Second place and a prize of PLN 2 000 was awarded to Tetetka Sp. z o.o. for the KatoWerk project.
The company, together with the “Bobrowe Żeremia” Foundation and the “Kurka Wodna” Association, is committed to spreading technical knowledge with a particular emphasis on bicycles. The “Śląski Warsztat Społeczny” (Silesian Social Workshop) was created with access to tools and knowledge. As part of the project, two series of workshops were held for local residents. Educational campaigns are carried out to increase the safety of cyclists.

Third place and a prize of PLN 1,000 was awarded to Bluemed Clinic Sp. z o.o. for the free treatment of wards of the Child and Youth Welfare Organisation “Dom Aniołów Stróżów” (House of the Guardian Angels). The programme consisted of providing ad hoc, free assistance according to need to the Association's charges. As a result, immediate diagnosis was carried out and assistance provided.

Eco You and Eco Me is Eco Us

Katowice, for centuries the capital of heavy industry, coal and smog, as a result of a spectacular transformation has become a good place to live, a city of new technology and science. There is more and more greenery in the city every day, and residents are increasingly aware that the quality of the environment is hugely influenced by our daily habits. 

We have observed over the years how environmentally sensitive our investors and their employees are. Hence the idea for a campaign to raise awareness of how simple yet effective it is to change daily routines and help the environment.

This was the aim of the Investor Services Department's project to highlight the environmental efforts of Katowice-based companies and corporations. Showcasing the actions they are taking for the benefit of the local community and explaining what the buzzwords “smart” or “sustainable” mean in practice, and encouraging them to make small changes in their daily lives that turn out to make a big difference to the environment. The campaign revealed, among other things: how to reduce plastic consumption in everyday situations in a practical way, how to switch from a car to a bicycle and how recycling can have many facets. The campaign ran for one month and was conducted on the Linkedin platform. Participants included: PwC Service Delivery Center, Keywords Studios, Honeywell, Concentrix, EPAM Katowice, Sopra Steria, Vialto Partners, LKQ Europe, Rockwell Automation and Kyndryl.

Europejski Tydzień Mobilności (European Mobility Week)

In 2024, Katowice joined the European Mobility Week celebrations for the 14th time. The theme of this campaign was to promote travel using an emission-free mode of transport such as rail. In September 2024, the largest rail investment in the city's history began in Katowice. Three rail-road viaducts have been closed. The most important objective of this project is to add two tracks, thus separating agglomeration and long-distance traffic. The result of PKP PLK S.A.'s investment will be faster and more comfortable rail travel within the conurbation and to the border with the Czech Republic. Inhabitants of the Silesian Voivodship, including the people of Katowice, will gain an attractive offer for travelling by ecological means of transport. Access to trains will be increased, with the construction of three new train stops and the upgrading of five existing ones. The separation of agglomeration and long-distance traffic will increase the number of connections. Modern systems and equipment, meanwhile, will increase the safety level of rail transport.

Restoration of historical monuments in Katowice

The city annually subsidises conservation, restoration and construction work on Katowice's most valuable monuments. In 2024, a grant of PLN 985,970.00 was awarded for conservation work on 7 buildings in Katowice.

In previous years, the subsidies amounted to:

in 2020 PLN 849,996.43

in 2021 PLN 889,093.42

in 2022 PLN 997,004.00

in 2023  PLN 800,000.00

Katowice Intelligent Transport Management System

In December 2023, the Katowice Intelligent Transport Management System was implemented, thanks to which public transport vehicles delayed from the timetable have priority when passing through intersections with traffic lights.   The above project was introduced to improve traffic flow and reduce the nuisance caused by excessive vehicle traffic. The system covers all branches of the urban mobility elements ensuring the safety of drivers, pedestrians and cyclists at each of the upgraded intersections. Changes were made to the operation of signalling programmes and brought into line with current legislation. In addition, cycle crossings have been retrofitted with cycle radars and acoustic devices have been installed to support the mobility of visually impaired and blind people in order to counteract social exclusion.

In addition, a web portal was created to obtain information on traffic conditions. Among the data provided are those on traffic volumes, parking space occupancy and current weather conditions, including air pollution. An intermodal journey planner has also been created as part of the portal, enabling journeys to be planned using the most optimal individual and public transport modes on a given route.

The total value of the project /subsidies is PLN 86,520,465.20. ERDF co-financing amounts to 85% of the project value.

The ITS implementation project was awarded on 8 October 2024 in the final of the 14th edition of Professor Wojciech Suchorzewski's ITS LEADER competition in the category “Best implementation carried out by the public sector”. The competition was part of the 16th edition of the Polish ITS Congress.

The ITS system also received a silver award in the finals of the 2024 LivCom Awards for sustainable cities and regions.

Zielony Budżet (Green Budget)

Katowice is investing in the renewal of existing and the creation of new green enclaves, involving residents in these activities. A tool through which residents can realise their needs for ecology and environmental protection in the broadest sense is the Green Budget, where you can turn your ideas into action. In the five editions of the Green Budget, a total of 459 tasks were selected for implementation out of the 967 applications submitted.

Rower Metropolitalny (Metropolitan bicycle)

In February 2024, the Upper Silesian and Zagłębie Metropolis launched the Metropolitan Bicycle system. This system replaced the “City by bike” urban bicycle system previously operating in Katowice. Metrorower is the largest rental system in Poland and the third largest in Europe. Bikes are available in 31 municipalities in the GZM with a total of 7,000 and almost 1,000 bicycle stations. In Katowice, 150 stations and 1,000 bicycles are available to users. Metrorower as part of GZM Transport also appears in the fare - each passenger using a season ticket can use the Metrorower free of charge for 60 minutes a day. The system consists of 4th generation bikes that are not clipped to bike stations.

Cycle paths

The popularity of unicycles, not only for recreational purposes, is increasing, therefore the cycling infrastructure - cycle paths and bike rental stations - is constantly being developed. There are currently 150 urban - metropolitan bicycle stations in the city, with 1,000 vehicles available to residents. Since 2015, 197.9 km of new cycle routes have been built in Katowice at a cost of PLN 60 million.

Katowice is getting closer to the goal of connecting all its districts with a network of safe cycle routes. Among the biggest investments in recent years is the construction of cycle paths:

• Along ul. Francuska - 700 m, cost: PLN 3 million
• in the area of ul. Gospodarcza, Pułaskiego and Dolina Trzech Stawów - 1400 m, cost: PLN 1,1 million
• along ul. Szopienicka - 2,400 m, cost: over PLN 4.5 million
• connection of the Tempo 30 zone area from CP Brynów to the cycle path in ul. Jankego and route 1 - 1400 m, cost: almost PLN 1.9 million
• connection along ul. Lotnisko - 1100 m, cost: over PLN 1.6 million
• along ul. Hallera - 1400m, cost approx. PLN 6 million
• along ul. Korczaka - 800 m, cost approx. PLN 3 million
• Mysłowicka / Kolista - 430m, cost approx. PLN 3.7 million
• along ul. Graniczna - 745 m
• along ul. Grota Roweckiego - 200m
• connection of ul. Meteorologów with ul. Francuska - 550m
• along ul. Meteorologów - 500m

In addition to the cycle paths, numerous facilities for cyclists have been created, such as a number of cycle crossings, an exit under the Ziętek roundabout, a contra-lane on ul. Kozielska, cycle lanes on ul. Sokolska. The construction of Katowice's velostrada, or “cycle highway”, 4.4km long, which connected Giszowiec and Brynów, cost approx. 11.5 million, length 4.4km. Further cycle routes are to connect, for example, Burowiec with the city centre and Katowice with Mysłowice.

Rowerowa Stolica Polski (Cycling Capital of Poland)

In 2024, Katowice entered the competition for the title of Cycling Capital of Poland for the second time, inaugurated by the city of Bydgoszcz.

Katowice stood on the podium, taking third place in the category of cities with more than 200,000 inhabitants, second only to Bydgoszcz Metropolis and Poznań. As many as 947 residents of Katowice travelled a total of 137,387 kilometres, engaging in this healthy competition.

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Revitalisation

Until the end of 2023, the revitalisation process in Katowice was conducted on the basis of the Local Revitalisation Programme. In order to proceed with the implementation of the measures, in accordance with the provisions of the Revitalisation Act, the procedure for the development of a municipal revitalisation programme was initiated by adopting a resolution on 25 July 2024 to proceed with the development of a municipal revitalisation programme.  In accordance with the Revitalisation Act, at the request of the Mayor, a degraded area and a revitalisation area divided into nine sub-areas were designated by resolution:

• Śródmieście,
• Zawodzie,
• Załęże,
• Dąb,
• Wełnowiec – Józefowiec,
• Bogucice,
• Dąbrówka Mała,
• Szopienice – Burowiec,
• Janów – Nikiszowiec

The area covers a total of: 1,314.5 ha, which is 7.98% of the municipality's area and is inhabited by 25.1% of the municipality's population. A “Communal Revitalisation Programme of the City of Katowice up to 2030” will be developed for the designated area.  The program will contain: a detailed diagnosis of the revitalisation area, a description of the vision of the state of the area after revitalisation, the objectives of revitalisation and the corresponding directions of activities aimed at eliminating or reducing negative phenomena, a description of revitalisation undertakings, mechanisms for integrating the objectives and directions with revitalisation undertakings, the estimated financial framework and a system for monitoring and evaluation of the municipal revitalisation program. A public consultation will be held for the draft programme in question

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Task in the framework of the Polish Order

From 2023 the city is implementing a complex of road investments to connect the important projects necessary for the dynamic development of Katowice. The above projects received co-financing from the Government's Polish Order Fund and the Government's Road Development Fund. The cost of the project entitled „Budowa nowych układów drogowych dla skomunikowania terenów o funkcjach mieszkaniowych i usługowych w mieście Katowice” (Construction of new road systems for the communication of areas with residential and service functions in the city of Katowice) - is approximately PLN 157 million gross. The project includes the following investment tasks:

1. Tasks constituting traffic services for housing developments of the Housing Plus Programme:
   • “Preparation of land for housing development on ul. Gospodarcza - phase II”,
   • “Preparation of land for housing development in ul. Korczaka and ul. Deszczowa area”,
2. Tasks to connect new residential and commercial zones, in the centre and in the vicinity of the Strefa Kultury (Cultural Zone):
   • “Transport system for the construction site of the New Silesian Museum, the International Congress Centre and the headquarters of the National Polish Radio Symphony Orchestra in Katowice - phase II”,
   • “Reconstruction of the intersection of ul. Katowicka, ul. Wiązowa and the planned extension of ul. Dobrowolskiego with technical infrastructure”,
   • "Construction of ul. Północna”,
   • “Extension of ul. Mickiewicza to ul. Grundmanna”,
3. Tasks to improve local traffic conditions, including a task to enable direct access to the Regional Ambulance Station:
   • “Construction of a road system in the area of ul. Tysiąclecia 88”,
   • “Construction of a road system in the area of ul. Kalinowa, ul. Wilczewskiego - stage I; road connection between ul. Armii Krajowej and ul. Wilczewskiego together with a pedestrian route”.

Naprawmyto.pl

Naprawmyto.pl is an app that allows residents to easily point out faults in the city in three categories of issues: infrastructure, greenery and safety. No less important than effectiveness is the ability to follow up or comment on reported issues and propose solutions, as well as direct contact between residents and officials.

Innovation in this case therefore concerns not only the use of an innovative tool, but the very formula for cooperation and communication with residents.

The application was developed by NGOs and is also used by other Polish cities on an open source basis. However, Katowice achieved record results in terms of both the number of alerts reported (user activity) and the number of issues resolved. To date, we have remediated more than 28,758 alerts out of 37,884 reported since spring 2018.

naprawmyto.pl/katowice

Responsible consumption and production

Worldwide consumption and production — a driving force of the global economy — rest on the use of the natural environment and resources in a way that continues to have destructive impacts on the planet. 
Economic and social progress over the last century has been accompanied by environmental degradation that is endangering the very systems on which our future development — indeed, our very survival — depends. 
A few facts and figures:

• Each year, an estimated one third of all food produced – equivalent to 1.3 billion tonnes worth around $1 trillion – ends up rotting in the bins of consumers and retailers, or spoiling due to poor transportation and harvesting practices.
• If people worldwide switched to energy efficient light bulbs the world would save US$120 billion annually.
• Should the global population reach 9.6 billion by 2050, the equivalent of almost three planets could be required to provide the natural resources needed to sustain current lifestyles.

The COVID-19 pandemic offers countries an opportunity to build recovery plans that will reverse current trends and change our consumption and production patterns towards a more sustainable future.
Sustainable consumption and production is about doing more and better with less. It is also about decoupling economic growth from environmental degradation, increasing resource efficiency and promoting sustainable lifestyles.
Sustainable consumption and production can also contribute substantially to poverty alleviation and the transition towards low-carbon and green economies.

KATOWICE CITY ACTIVITIES

Climate action

KATOWICE CITY ACTIVITIES

Life below water

The ocean drives global systems that make the Earth habitable for humankind. Our rainwater, drinking water, weather, climate, coastlines, much of our food, and even the oxygen in the air we breathe, are all ultimately provided and regulated by the sea. 

Careful management of this essential global resource is a key feature of a sustainable future. However, at the current time, there is a continuous deterioration of coastal waters owing to pollution, and ocean acidification is having an adversarial effect on the functioning of ecosystems and biodiversity. This is also negatively impacting small scale fisheries. 

Saving our ocean must remain a priority. Marine biodiversity is critical to the health of people and our planet. Marine protected areas need to be effectively managed and well-resourced and regulations need to be put in place to reduce overfishing, marine pollution and ocean acidification.

KATOWICE CITY ACTIVITIES

Metamorphosis of the Valley of Five Ponds

The revitalisation of Katowice's Valley of Five Ponds covers an area of more than 150 hectares, of which the surface area of the water reservoirs alone is 91 hectares - the equivalent of 127 full-size football pitches. The valley is formed by ponds:

• Morawa,
• Borki,
• Hubertus I,
• Hubertus II
• and Hubertus III.

The naturally rich and attractive area is conducive to a variety of leisure and outdoor activities - not only sunbathing, but also cycling, walking, running or fishing. Therefore, the revitalisation aims to make this space safe for the people of Katowice, while preserving its natural character.

The first phase of revitalisation was completed in 2022. A new boathouse, quay, jetty, barbecue area and bathing facilities on the south-eastern shore of the Morawa pond have been made available for use by residents. The cost of the investment is more than PLN 6.5 million.

In August 2024, a bathing area on the north side of the Morawa pond was opened to the public as part of an investment of nearly PLN 12.9 million. A space has been created here that is very conducive to leisure and recreation. Sunbathers have around 100 metres of sandy coastline and a lido with lifeguards at their disposal. Above, on the slope, there was a terrace with camping and lounging areas, a children's playground and beach volleyball courts. Changing rooms, showers and toilets are also available.

The next - the third phase of the revitalisation - will include:

• construction of another beach on the southern shore of Borki Pond,
• new car park
• and a promenade along the eastern shore of the Morava Pond.

Revitalisation of Starganiec

Starganiec Pond has been given a completely new face. The work was carried out in consultation between Katowice, Mikołów and the State Forests. As part of the regeneration, the area around the pond has been landscaped and tidied up, the highlight being the beach located here. It is complemented by a pier - partly permanent and partly floating. Paths adapted to the needs of people with disabilities have been laid out. Residents can relax on deckchairs or benches, and there are also picnic gazebos. Two beach volleyball courts have also been created on site.

The pond area is lit by solar lamps. CCTV has also been installed. Places for foodtrucks, a portable toilet zone and the surface of the car park have been designated.

New vegetation has also appeared at the pond. Old trees were left in the forest line. Multi-stemmed native and melliferous plants were planted, as well as old-fashioned varieties of fruit trees.

One of the key issues with the development was that it was to be carried out in such a way as not to harm the biodiversity and natural assets of the Starganiec Pond area. Experts were consulted on all decisions concerning the project to revitalise the area.

The cost of the investment is PLN 7 million.

Revitalisation of Kozubek Pond

Thanks to the revitalisation of the Kozubek pond in 2023 in the Witosa and Załęża residential area, residents have gained a new green space. Among other things, the investment included the construction of cobblestone paths and mineral paving. A wooden platform made of Siberian larch appeared above the pond itself. In addition, there are benches, deckchairs, bins and bike racks around the pond. A playground with various types of equipment has been built for the children: rocker, merry-go-round, swings or balance beam. The revitalised space will also be safe to use after dark, as modern lights have been installed throughout the area. The site is also accessible to people with disabilities.

The project was implemented as part of the civic budget. The cost of the revitalisation is approximately PLN 1.8 million.

Life on land

Nature is critical to our survival: nature provides us with our oxygen, regulates our weather patterns, pollinates our crops, produces our food, feed and fibre. But it is under increasing stress. Human activity has altered almost 75 per cent of the earth’s surface, squeezing wildlife and nature into an ever-smaller corner of the planet.

Around 1 million animal and plant species are threatened with extinction – many within decades – according to the 2019 Global Assessment Report on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Service. The report called for transformative changes to restore and protect nature. It found that the health of ecosystems on which we and all other species depend is deteriorating more rapidly than ever, affecting  the very foundations of our economies, livelihoods, food security, health and quality of life worldwide. 

Deforestation and desertification – caused by human activities and climate change – pose major challenges to sustainable development and have affected the lives and livelihoods of millions of people. Forests are vitally important for sustaining life on Earth, and play a major role in the fight against climate change. And investing in land restoration is critical for improving livelihoods, reducing vulnerabilities, and reducing risks for the economy.

The health of our planet also plays an important role in the emergence of zoonotic diseases, i.e. diseases that are transmissible between animals and humans. As we continue to encroach on fragile ecosystems, we bring humans into ever-greater contact with wildlife, enabling pathogens in wildlife to spill over to livestock and humans, increasing the risk of disease emergence and amplification.

KATOWICE CITY ACTIVITIES

Urban beehives on rooftops

Seven municipal beehives have already been erected on the roofs of the National Polish Radio Symphony Orchestra's headquarters and three municipal swimming pools, in Brynów, Burowiec and Zadole. The honey collected from them is used as a gadget to promote the city. This initiative is part of the trend of placing hives in urban environments, which are proving to be very bee-friendly. At the same time, the presence of these insects is beneficial to the local vegetation, especially the growing number of flower meadows in the city.

A city, especially one like Katowice, which has a large proportion of green space, is a very friendly environment for bees. It has a slightly different microclimate to rural areas. It's warmer in there, the season is longer. There is also a greater variety of flowers. Instead, there are no giant monoculture crops which, although they look nice in pictures (fields of rape or sunflowers), are not insect-friendly. It is also important to note that pesticides and fertilisers are unlikely to be used in the city to support plant growth. 

It is estimated that more than 75% of crops grown in Europe reproduce through pollination by bees and other insects. Paradoxically, it is the cities that can be a dream habitat for them.

The honey collected in Katowice was once again analysed by the Bee Products Quality Testing Laboratory of the State Research Institute of Horticulture in Puławy. The results of the pollen analysis of nectariferous plants show that almost 30% of the pollen in the Katowice honeys consists of pollen from plants in the genus Prunus, i.e., for example, sweet cherry, sour cherry, plum and peach. The only exception is the bees living at the Brynów Basin. In the honey collected there, pollen from this type of tree accounts for as much as 57% of the total.

30% of the pollen collected by the bees living on the roof of the NOSPR and at the Zadole Basin comes from willow. The diet of the bees living at the Burowiec Basin is also interesting. More than 23% of the pollen in the local honey is pollen from brassica plants, such as radish, kohlrabi, cauliflower, oilseed rape, but also ornamental plants: levconia, common lac, lady's evening primrose and cabbage. In Zadole such pollen accounts for only 14% of the total, in the inner city (NOSPR) 10%, and in Brynów 6%.

Honeydew indicators were observed in all the honeys, further emphasising their uniqueness.

Zielona Warszawska (Green Warszawska)

As late as 2022, ul. Warszawska was still primarily an all-day car park for people commuting to Katowice from other cities. A comprehensive transformation of the site was promised by Katowice Mayor Marcin Krupa and he has kept his word. In December 2023, the investment was completed. The most important change was primarily the introduction of lots of greenery. 70 trees, 2,649 shrubs and 2,734 perennials and grasses were planted there. At the same time, roads were narrowed and space was given over to pedestrians. Instead of narrow and crooked pavements, elegant promenades with street furniture have appeared: benches, litter bins, bike racks and new LED lighting. And in 2024, a plant replacement was carried out on ul. Warszawska - the space between the track and the carriageway was given a new green character with the planting of around 1,000 roses.

Greening of al. Korfantego

One of the most spectacular green transformations took place in Katowice between 2022 and 2023, when a section of al. Korfantego along the tram line was deconstructed and 50 trees and thousands of shrubs and plants were planted. Implementing green projects is not only an investment in aesthetics, but also a fight against the effects of climate change. The deconcreting of Korfantego and the implementation of planting have allowed the natural retention of hundreds of thousands of litres of rainwater, localised reduction of heat island phenomena and improved air purification.

The transformation on al. Korfantego is just one of many green projects carried out in Katowice in recent years. The metamorphosis of ul. Warszawska was completed in autumn 2023, and ul. Dworcowa two years earlier. In total, several hundred trees were planted in the central part of Katowice.

New parks for residents

In the first half of 2024, residents began using four new parks: in Wełnowiec (costing more than PLN 13 million), Kostuchno (more than PLN 5.4 million), Ochojec (more than PLN 10 million) and on the border of Bogucice, Zawodzie and Dąbrówka Mała (almost PLN 8 million).

One of these green developments is the park under construction at the junction of Leopolda, Le Ronda and Bohaterów Monte Cassino. This will include a children's playground and educational zone, a green labyrinth, a sensory garden, a green tunnel, as well as glades and flower meadows, an environmental education zone and a viewing area. The development will be complemented by new footpaths, benches, tree and planting and lighting.

Revitalisation of Park Wełnowiecki

In 2018, Katowice Mayor Marcin Krupa pledged to create new city parks and revitalise existing parks. One of these is the 137,000-square-metre Wełnowiecki Park, whose revitalisation will cost almost PLN 13 million. The people of Katowice will gain another green space, conducive to active recreation. The investment will include a new playground, a basketball and volleyball court, sledge mountain, a gym, a dog run and a pumptrack for cyclists. The park will also feature a relaxation area with hammocks, benches and barbecue points. In addition, shrubs, perennials and 89 trees will be planted. The revitalisation will be completed in the first half of 2024.

More and more trees in one of Poland's greenest cities

Katowice is among the leading cities with the largest area of green space. At the same time, the city is developing its green infrastructure all the time. More than 1,000 new trees of various species were added to Katowice in 2024, such as maples, lime trees and beech trees. However, the important contribution of residents who have contributed to additional planting through programmes such as the Green Budget should not be forgotten. Such initiatives not only increase the number of trees, but also involve the local community in ecological efforts.

However, it is not only the Department of Urban Greening that carries out plantings in Katowice. The Municipal Housing Company cares for the surroundings of the city's buildings and plants new greenery near them, making the environment more welcoming.

New trees are also being planted in the city thanks to the work of the Katowice Forestry Commission. In 2024, the Forestry Commission planted nearly 300,000 seedlings. Of these, the largest number were pine trees - almost 180,000. In addition, foresters planted oaks (more than 60,000), beeches (around 22,000) and spruces (nearly 12,000), among others.

In 2025, thanks to the planned investment, almost 1,200 trees will decorate areas of Katowice, with implications for both the appearance of the sites and environmental issues. Among other things, greenery is important for counteracting urban heat islands. As part of the task, the selected contractor will plant trees near selected schools and kindergartens and between ul. Gliwicka and the Maroko pond, in the area of ul. Bohdanowicza, ul. Tysiąclecia and ul. Mieszka I, as well as in the area on ul. Pijarska.

Sheep that cut the grass

The idea of mowing the grass with the help of sheep was brought to the Municipal Greenery by a Silesian breeder, who also performed similar services in Gliwice, among other places. He suggested testing such a solution in Katowice. In 2023, the Urban Greening Department test-hired sheep to “mow” the grass at selected points in the city. The animals performed their task perfectly and gained a lot of sympathy from the residents, which is why they also appeared in Katowice in 2024. 

The grass mowing in Katowice will be done by sheep of the Cameroonian variety. Their first point of action was ul. Na Obrzeżu, where they had an area of almost 20,000 m² to mow. The farmer adjusted the number of sheep each time according to the location. When the animals had completed their task, they moved on to the next point. Throughout the season, they appeared in various locations - including the streets: Kijowska, Kostka Napierskiego, Oswobodzenia, Tysiąclecia, Wantuły or Ziołowa. In 2024, they were given land totalling 200,000 m² to mow.

Organic grass mowing

Grass-eating sheep are an ecological solution that complements traditional mowing. Where the terrain allows, sheep may appear instead of mowers. As the animals graze on the chosen area, they additionally fertilise it, reducing the need to use ready-made fertilisers. This supports the conservation and development of the flora in the area where they are located. They also help to get rid of weeds. In addition, they make no noise, which for many people is a definite advantage. The presence of sheep is also a curiosity for passers-by. The sheep bring the most joy to children, for whom such a sight in a big city is not an everyday occurrence.

Fauna and flora of Katowice

Rare species of flora and fauna or plant communities, some of which are under legal protection, are a particular strength of the city. Some are protected in specially designated areas, such as nature reserves: “Las Murckowski” (Murckowski Forest), protecting beech and mixed forests overgrowing the slopes of Wanda Hill, and “Ochojec”, protecting mountain plants.

Other areas of natural value are: the headwaters of the Kłodnica River with riparian forest, a fragment of the peat bog and swamp forest “Płone Bagno”, the ponds Borki, Morawa and Hubertus. The Katowice Forest Park, the ponds on the Tysiąclecia housing estate, the riparian forests on the Ślepiotka River, the preserved meanders of the Kłodnica River and the white stork's nest in Zarzecze also attract attention. Monumental trees or groups of trees are an important part of the landscape.

Animals in the city

As part of the successive editions of the Katowice Green Budget, requests from district councils and on its own initiative, the Department of Urban Greening is systematically installing new nest boxes, hedgehog houses and insect hotels, the total number of which has already exceeded 500.

As part of the three editions of the “Złóż sobie karmnik” (Assemble your own feeder) campaign (2022, 2023 and 2025), self-assembly feeders were distributed to residents. The campaign aims to draw attention to the proper feeding of birds and encourage DIY, sometimes with whole families. It is also an excellent opportunity to observe birds, of which there are dozens of species in the city. 

In 2023, the following tasks were carried out by the Environment Department as part of the Green Budget:  “Feeders for birds fed by residents of Załęże” - 4 feeders of various sizes were installed in four locations of Załęże area. “Domek dla jeża” (Hedgehog house) - hedgehog houses (10 pieces) were made and placed in convenient locations around ul. Łętowskiego.

In February 2021, we distributed 90 bird nesting boxes to residents. The action was repeated in subsequent years. The booths were made by people with intellectual disabilities during the SPES Association's occupational therapy workshop. Ornithologists have long encouraged, among other things, the use of nest boxes to help birds nesting in hollows. Booths were placed in the hands of private individuals, but also institutions such as schools and kindergartens.

In September 2020, TAURON donated 25 hedgehog houses to Katowice, and we gave them to residents as part of a civic action. Residents collected the houses from us and pledged to look after them. It was also part of an education and information campaign to popularise the care of hedgehogs in the city. The staff of the Urban Greening Department remember to leave piles of leaves for hedgehogs after the autumn clean-up.

Peace, justice and strong institutions

Conflict, insecurity, weak institutions and limited access to justice remain a great threat to sustainable development. 

The number of people fleeing war, persecution and conflict exceeded 70 million in 2018, the highest level recorded by the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) in almost 70 years. 

In 2019, the United Nations tracked 357 killings and 30 enforced disappearances of human rights defenders, journalists and trade unionists in 47 countries.

And the births of around one in four children under age 5 worldwide are never officially recorded, depriving them of a proof of legal identity crucial for the protection of their rights and for access to justice and social services.

KATOWICE CITY ACTIVITIES

Partnerships for the goals