Czech Business Today

Flash news

• Czech Government Acquires 80% Stake in New Nuclear Project Company

  The Czech government has approved the purchase of an 80% stake in Poweplant Dukovany II, the company overseeing the construction of two new nuclear units at the Dukovany site. This move marks a milestone in a project critical to ensuring the country’s long-term energy security and self-sufficiency. The government also selected a state loan—subject to European Commission approval—as the preferred financing model for the project. The remaining 20% stake will stay with ČEZ, ensuring its technical involvement and expertise. Contracts with Korean supplier KHNP and Czech firms are expected to secure up to 60% local industry participation, boosting domestic economic benefits.

  Source: Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic

• New Opportunities in UAE

  In April business mission of Czech AI med-tech startups took place in the UAE, organized in cooperation with the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Abu Dhabi, led by Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade. The mission successfully connected Czech startups with key Emirati investors and innovation hubs such as HUB71 and DIFC Innovation Hub, opening new opportunities for bilateral cooperation. Czech participants presented their projects, held targeted B2B meetings, and gained valuable insights into the local market and digital innovation environment. 

  Source: Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic

• Czech Ministry Launches New Proof of Concept Call to Boost Innovation

  The Czech Ministry of Industry and Trade has announced the third call for the “Proof of Concept” (PoC) initiative under the OP TAK programme, offering up to CZK 800 million in support for innovative projects. The call targets SMEs, small mid-cap companies, and research organizations in consortium with a business partner. The goal is to validate the feasibility and commercial potential of R&D projects before large-scale investment, encouraging the development and market launch of new technologies, products, or services. Minister Vlček emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting high-risk, high-potential innovations, particularly from startups. In parallel, the Ministry is negotiating tax relief for employee shares, launching AI-supported Entrepreneur Portal in September, and transforming unused state properties into multifunctional spaces for startups. The PoC call also supports real-world testing, prototyping, and demonstration activities, with the Business and Innovation Agency providing assistance nationwide through its regional offices and free hotline.

  Source: Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic

• Czech Brownfields Turn into Hubs of Business and Community Life

  Thanks to support from the Ministry of Industry and Trade, unused and decaying buildings across Czech towns and municipalities are being successfully transformed into vibrant spaces for entrepreneurship, community life, and culture. Projects in places like Raškovice, Budišovice, Mořkov, and Valeč now feature restaurants, coworking spaces, and multipurpose halls—revitalized brownfields that not only foster local business development but also strengthen social cohesion and boost regional attractiveness.

  Source: Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic