Deadline Date: May 06, 2026
The Industrial Infrastructure Challenge 2026 invites global startups and scale-ups to collaborate with leading industry partners to develop innovative solutions that modernize legacy infrastructure and accelerate the industrial energy transition.
The focus areas, objectives, priorities, and themes of this initiative include Infrastructure Transformation through retrofitting and modular systems aimed at upgrading existing infrastructure using standardized components, advanced coatings, leak detection technologies, non-destructive testing methods, and modular production units such as compressor stations, network nodes, and mobile measurement systems. These solutions are designed to enhance flexibility, safety, and environmental performance while enabling efficient adaptation of legacy industrial networks.
It also includes Carbon Reduction, Capture & Management Infrastructure focused on developing future CO₂ value chains through next-generation carbon capture technologies, specialized transport systems for dense phase CO₂, and carbon-to-X utilization concepts to establish a closed-loop carbon economy. Additionally, Advanced Construction Approaches emphasize faster infrastructure expansion through modular construction methods, autonomous and semi-autonomous inspection robots, digital twins for real-time monitoring, augmented reality for remote maintenance, and digital tools to address workforce shortages. Fire-Proofing Carbon Construction addresses fire safety challenges in carbon concrete through non-combustible or highly heat-resistant matrix systems, advanced fire protection solutions for thin carbon concrete elements, and smart additives that improve thermal insulation and prevent structural failure under high heat conditions.
The program enables participants to work directly with global partners on real-world industrial challenges, particularly in hydrogen infrastructure, carbon management, and industrial automation. Selected startups gain the opportunity to develop and implement their technologies in collaboration with established industry players, supporting the transformation of traditional industrial systems into more sustainable and flexible models.
Beyond pilot project opportunities, participants benefit from access to the SpinLab network, coaching and financial support to refine their solutions, and exposure to investors and industry experts through a final pitch event. The challenge also provides a direct pathway to the SpinLab startup accelerator program, offering continued support for scaling innovative solutions.
Startups and scale-ups from around the world with relevant technologies or proven concepts are encouraged to apply, with selected teams required to participate in a demo day held in Leipzig, Germany, either in person or online.
For more information, visit Spinlab Group.
