Red Rooster Dispatch #1: Quantum breaktrough and PLN 100 mln for Polish startups from THC Pathfinder
Welcome to the first edition of the French Tech Warsaw newsletter!
Hello World!
French Tech Warsaw is expanding, and there's a lot happening in our community! To help you stay connected and up to date with the latest tech news, we’re thrilled to introduce our new newsletter: Red Rooster Dispatch. This monthly recap highlights the most important tech news, providing key insights into the Polish and French tech, business, and startup scenes, along with updates about our Warsaw community. Enjoy the read!
#1: New Business Opportunities Ahead: Quantum Breakthrough
Polish physicist Michał Parniak-Niedojadło and his team have developed the world’s fastest and most efficient quantum memory. This cutting-edge tech, which stores and processes photons at lightning speed, opens the door to exciting opportunities in quantum communications and data storage. It’s a major leap forward that puts Poland on the global tech map, rivaling even China’s advancements. With new business possibilities in fields like telecommunications and astrophysics, this innovation is set to reshape the future. Get ready for a quantum revolution!
#2: Polish Senate Declares Use of Government Spyware Illegal
The Polish Senate has ruled that the use of government spyware, including tools like Pegasus, is illegal in the country. This decision follows an investigation into the unauthorized surveillance of opposition figures, journalists, and activists. The Senate report condemns the misuse of such tools, highlighting concerns over privacy violations and the undermining of democratic principles.
The ruling could lead to stricter regulations on government surveillance, fostering new conversations about privacy rights and transparency in Poland’s political and legal system.
#3: Tar Heel Capital Pathfinder Launches New Fund with PLN 100 Million for Startups
Tar Heel Capital Pathfinder has announced a new fund of PLN 100 million aimed at supporting Polish startups. The fund will focus on sectors like AI, robotics, and sustainable energy, providing early-stage companies with resources to accelerate their growth. With this investment, Tar Heel Capital aims to strengthen the startup ecosystem in Poland and help local entrepreneurs expand into global markets.
The initiative will also offer mentoring and strategic support, positioning startups to succeed in competitive industries and drive innovation.
#4: Poland Can Into Space: SATIM Attracts Techstars' Investment
Polish spacetech company SATIM has secured investment from Techstars, one of the world's top accelerators, along with funds like Balnord and Cultivation Capital. SATIM specializes in analyzing satellite radar images using AI, with applications in both defense and commercial sectors. This funding will help them expand their global presence, particularly in NATO countries, and strengthen international security efforts. The investment marks another step in Poland's journey to becoming a significant player in space technology.
#5: Upcoming Cybersecurity Changes for Polish Businesses
Polish companies have until October 17 to comply with the new EU cybersecurity directive (NIS2), which will impact many industries including healthcare, banking, and IT. The directive demands heightened cyber risk management and frequent assessments. Failure to adapt could result in significant penalties.
Many businesses, however, are unprepared. A shortage of cybersecurity specialists and the complexity of implementing new protocols, such as incident reporting and securing supply chains, pose challenges. Immediate action is crucial to avoid serious consequences for both data security and public safety.
We’re glad you ask!
On September 19th, we had the pleasure of gathering once again for a business breakfast organized with OVHcloud at Bistro L'Emotion. We enjoyed two fascinating talks: "Future of AI & Quantum: How Europe can Lead the Race?" by Benjamin Revcolevschi from OVHcloud, and "Creativity and AI: Combining Intuition and Technology to Hack Generative Tools" by David Sypniewski from AI Open LAB, SWPS. We also celebrated OVHcloud’s 20th anniversary in the Polish market! More photos and highlights from this successful event can be found on our LinkedIn. (Don’t forget to follow if you don’t!)
