The future of environmental technologies: IFAT Munich Startup Area 2026
Today’s vision, tomorrow’s reality: The IFAT Munich Startup Area is all about innovations in the fields of water, recycling, and circularity. Here, successful and highly motivated startups showcase their groundbreaking products and services.
Welcome to the future of environmental technologies!
Located in the heart of Hall C4, the Startup Area showcases the innovative power of the next generation in sustainability technologies. Around 50 to 60 international startups present solutions that actively drive efficient water management, optimize recycling processes and expand circular value creation. From fresh approaches to resource conservation to technologies shaping a more sustainable future – this area is a must-visit for anyone eager to see where environmental technology is headed.
- Find the latest solutions for the circular economy!
Visit innovative startups showcasing groundbreaking products and solutions. Experience the latest technologies in water, recycling, and circular economy.
- Tomorrow starts here!
Take the opportunity to engage with visionary founders and technology experts and get inspired by successful startups and their innovative business models.
- Connect. Discover. Be Inspired!
Meet decision-makers, partners, and professionals from the world of startups. The IFAT Munich Startup Area offers you numerous chances to establish valuable connections with tomorrow’s environmental technology industry.
- Experience innovation firsthand!
Whether it's exciting presentations on the Green Stage, product demonstrations by startups, or guided startup tours, here you can experience firsthand what is driving and shaping the future of environmental technology and the circular economy.
The Green Stage
Smart Minds. Big Ideas. One Stage.
The Green Stage provides a central platform where experts present their visions, ideas, and solutions for the circular economy and sustainable innovations.
Startup Solution Tours
The Startup Solution Tours offer a fantastic opportunity for knowledge transfer and networking with exciting young companies by guiding participants to selected startups. From Monday to Thursday, groups of up to 40 participants will visit the startups, with each startup having 10 minutes to pitch itself.
Top experts: Meet our tour guides
- Managing Director SusTech Consult and Managing Partner SEF Ventures
- Focus topics: Innovation, startups, financing and industrial partnerships in the environmental technology sector
- Partner of Messe München for IFAT Startup Area since 2018
- Independent Business Development Consultant
- Focus topics: German market entry support and business know-how for international tech companies
- Strategic partner of SusTech Consult (Partner of Messe München for IFAT Startup Area since 2018)
The Startup Solution Tours at IFAT Munich 2026 in detail
Find out more about the content of each Startup Tour here. Please note: All tours are conducted in English.
Explore how startups are transforming waste streams into high-value materials – from advanced plastic recycling to bio-based and circular production systems. This tour showcases the next generation of technologies turning waste into valubale resources.
Date: May 4, 2026
Time: 15:30–16:30
Tour Guide: Andra Riemhofer
Discover cutting-edge water technologies for industrial and commercial applications – from monitoring and analytics to treatment and reuse. Learn how innovative solutions are improving efficiency, compliance, and water quality across operations.
Date: May 5, 2026
Time: 15:30–16:30
Tour Guide: Andra Riemhofer
Experience how AI and robotics are revolutionizing waste sorting – increasing efficiency, improving recovery, enhancing safety and reducing manual labor. This tour highlights intelligent systems that are reshaping modern recycling operations.
Date: May 6, 2026
Time: 10:00–11:00
Tour Guide: Bruno Rudnik
Explore smart solutions for water utilities and public infrastructure, from real-time monitoring to data-driven optimization. Discover how digital technologies are helping cities improve resilience, efficiency, and service quality.
Date: May 7, 2026
Time: 15:30–16:30
Tour Guide: Andra Riemhofer
Secure your place on a Startup Solution Tour of your choice!
Registration for the Startup Solution Tours is via the IFAT Munich app.
Contact
Do you have questions?
Contact our team for more information about the Startup Area.
Contact Information:
IFAT Munich Startup Team:application@ifat.de
Frequently asked questions
Our startup area is a central forum for technological and scientific innovation. Young companies showcase future-oriented business models and smart solutions for more efficient resource use, climate protection, and environmental sustainability.
Our startup area, centrally located in hall C4, spans 1,000 m², offering the perfect space for innovation, networking, and business growth. Ideal for ambitious companies looking to stand out.
IFAT Munich 26 will take place from May 4 to 7, 2026, at the Munich Exhibition Center.
Startups IFAT Munich 2026
Here you will find all companies already confirmed for the Startup Area at IFAT Munich 2026.
