Distribution of state aid for medium-sized enterprises in Poland during COVID-19 crisis

Purpose – The aim of this study has been to provide a rationale for state aid granted to medium-sized enterprises in Poland. The fundamental point raised in the study became the answer to the question of whether the companies that received aid actually needed it. Research method – In their research, the authors used a comparative analysis of the financial situation of companies that obtained COVID state aid with that of companies not covered by COVID state aid. Results – The research shows that the aid was provided not only to the companies that needed it. At the same time, more than 30 per cent of medium-sized enterprises that experienced a drop in sales did not receive such assistance. This demonstrates the imperfect distribution of COVID state aid. Originality / value / implications / recommendations – The value of the research lies in the combined use of COVID state-aid data and information on the financial condition of medium-sized enterprises. The study covers more than 75% of the number of medium-sized enterprises in Poland.