The Sourcing of Technologies, an Investigation in Metal Processing Cluster in Poland

The development of enterprises in the globalised world depends on their development potential and ability to compete with other entities. Of key importance in the field of competitiveness is access to innovative technologies providing a competitive advantage and the ability to cooperate in their acquisition with other entities, e.g. in clusters. The authors attempted to identify the sources of technology and financing options used by companies in the metal processing industry. The studied entities are part of a cluster of national importance, and the adopted research method is based on an interview questionnaire. Studies have shown that most companies buy ready-made solutions and to a lesser extent cooperate in acquiring technology. Noticeable is also a relatively large share of financing investments in new technologies from public funds.