Industry of the Future Challenge 2026
Industry of the Future Challenge 2026
Startups – innovate to build the industry of the future!
Give your startup a boost by rethinking the industry of tomorrow!
Is your startup developing a technology that could transform the world of industry by improving the quality and performance of its services?
Through this challenge, SKF Magnetic Mechatronics (S2M)—SKF’s center of excellence for advanced motion and magnetic bearing technologies—invites startups to collaborate on breakthrough innovations.
Together, we aim to build the factories of tomorrow: smarter and more connected, using more sustainable materials, and designed to be safer, more secure, and more human-centric.
Four themes
Smart Enterprise
Solutions that boost industrial performance using smart data, AI, and intelligent systems—transforming raw information into decisive, actionable insights for the industry of the future.
Materials & Processes of the Future
Breakthrough materials, coatings, manufacturing technologies, and disruptive processes that reinvent how tomorrow’s factories operate.
Toward a Decarbonized & Inclusive World
Innovations that reduce environmental impact, enhance circularity, lower energy use, and promote diversity and inclusion in organizations and society.
Audience Favorite
A standout project chosen by the public for its creativity, originality, and potential impact on the Industry of the Future.
Up for grabs for the winning startups
€3,000 of prize money + PoC opportunity with SKF Magnetic Mechatronics
€2,000 of prize money + PoC opportunity with SKF Magnetic Mechatronics
€2,000 of prize money + PoC opportunity with SKF Magnetic Mechatronics
Optimize the performance and quality of services provided by industry by putting forward your technology
Expert support
- Personalized guidance from mentors at SKF Magnetic Mechatronics and Techniques de l’Ingénieur
- Help to refine and showcase your startup’s solution
Visibility & networking
- Meet potential partners and customers
- The Grand Final on June 25th is a unique opportunity to grow your professional network
Exciting awards
- Up to €5,000 in prize money
- A Jury’s Favourite award, including access to:
- Scientific & technical resources from Techniques de l’Ingénieur
- The ability to submit technical questions to experts
Communication opportunities
- Featured visibility across various communication channels
- Selected startups will appear on Techniques-Ingenieur.fr
- Winners receive a professional video interview to promote their project
Your turn to shine
If your startup offers smart, innovative solutions that can contribute to the Industry of the Future, we’d love to hear from you.
JUNE 25, 2026
Grand Final
Ten shortlisted startups will have the opportunity to present their projects at our offices in Saint-Marcel, near Vernon, during a special event celebrating SKF Magnetic Mechatronics' 50th anniversary, with all employees.
They will also have the chance to meet some prominent figures who will be invited to the grand final.
It's the perfect opportunity to expand their professional network!