Reduced working hours in practice. Recruitment for the Ministry’s pilot programme

Shortening the working week, reducing daily hours, additional days off – these are issues that have been present in public debate for months. Although until recently they were treated mainly as a vision of the future or as inspiration drawn from solutions tested abroad, they are now gaining a concrete dimension in Poland. This is thanks to the pilot programme ‘Shorter Working Hours – It’s Happening!’, announced by the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Policy. Recruitment for the programme will run from 14 August to 15 September 2025.

This is the first large-scale project of its kind. Its aim is not only to test different models of work organisation, but also to collect data that may form the basis for possible future legislative changes. Importantly, participation in the programme offers the possibility of receiving funding of up to PLN 1 million.

Why reduce working hours?

The ministry points out that reducing working hours may be a response to a number of contemporary challenges – from demographic change, through technological progress and automation, to the need to improve employee well-being and promote a better balance between work and private life.

Countries that have already implemented a shorter working week include France, Denmark and Belgium, while similar solutions are being trialled in Spain. Poland now intends to use this pilot programme to assess the extent to which such solutions can be introduced across different industries and organisational models.

Who can participate in the programme?

Both public entities (including job centres and local government units) and private employers may take part in the pilot. Applications may be submitted by companies that:

• have been operating for at least 12 months,
• employ at least 75% of their staff under employment contracts,
• include at least 50% of employees in the pilot project,
• maintain employment levels at no less than 90% during the pilot.

One organisation may submit only one application – either independently or in cooperation with another entity. Documents must be submitted electronically in accordance with the ministry’s instructions.

Models of reduced working hours

The pilot allows employers to test various models of working time. They are not limited to a single option and may choose from, for example:

• reducing the number of working days per week (e.g. a four-day week),
• reducing daily working hours,
• granting additional days off per month,
• providing extra leave days,
• applying a different, tailored model specific to the organisation.

Employers participating in the programme will be required to report their results in detail, including via quarterly surveys completed by both employees and management.

Funding – up to PLN 1 million per project

A major advantage of the programme is the opportunity to obtain funding from the Labour Fund. The maximum amount of support is PLN 1 million, with no more than PLN 20,000 per employee covered. Funds can be used, among other things, for:

• process optimisation and automation,
• the purchase of digital tools to support time management,
• employee training and implementation activities,
• preparation of work regulations and schedules,
• salary subsidies.

Administrative costs must not exceed 10% of the project’s total value, and every pound must be accounted for in accordance with the agreement and presented in a detailed financial report.

Implementation schedule

The programme has been divided into three stages:

Stage I – Preparatory (until 31 December 2025)
Preparation of the reduced working time model, initial employee and employer surveys, and development of an implementation plan.

Stage II – Testing (1 January – 31 December 2026)
Actual implementation of the chosen models, with systematic monitoring of efficiency, well-being and work organisation.

Stage III – Summary (until 15 May 2027)
Data analysis, preparation of reports and recommendations. Based on the findings, the ministry will prepare a final summary report.

What does the employer gain?

Participation is not only an opportunity to receive funding but also to test modern work models, strengthen employer branding by promoting work-life balance, and gain knowledge that may lead to lasting improvements in efficiency and employee satisfaction.

Employers taking part will also influence the future shape of legislation on working time and will be recognised in a nationwide report as pioneers in implementing innovative work management solutions.

How to apply?

Applications must be submitted electronically between 14 August and 15 September 2025. The form must be accompanied by a pilot project proposal and all required attachments. Forms and details are available on the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Policy website.

Summary

The ‘Shorter Working Hours – It’s Happening!’ programme is the first such comprehensive pilot project in Poland with the potential to significantly influence the future labour market. With financial support, flexible models and a broad diagnostic approach, it offers a unique opportunity for both public and private organisations.