#ITMA 2027

2026-05-05

ITMA 2027 opens Start-Up Valley applications following success stories from 2023

Following several high-profile success stories emerging from the Start-Up Valley at ITMA 2023, applications are now open for young companies wishing to participate in the initiative at ITMA 2027.

The Start-Up Valley concept, launched to connect emerging innovators with the global textile and garment manufacturing industry, has already helped a number of participating companies accelerate their transition from early-stage development to industrial partnerships and commercial market entry.

At ITMA 2023, 15 start-ups were selected for the CEMATEX Start-Up Grant, gaining visibility and direct access to manufacturers, brands, investors and technology partners across the textile value chain.

One of the most prominent examples is WEFFAN, which collaborated with Balenciaga on what is described as the world’s first 3D woven tailored suit for the fashion brand’s Spring 2026 collection.

Another participant, TreeToTextile, has significantly advanced its regenerated cellulose fibre activities since ITMA 2023. In early 2026, Lenzing acquired a controlling stake in the Swedish company, underlining industry confidence in the scalability of its technology.

Meanwhile, Noosa expanded its production capacity for bio-based circular PLA fibres and broadened its application portfolio following contacts established through the exhibition.

“For many of the companies selected for Start-Up Valley in Milan, the showcase proved far more than just an exhibition platform,” says CEMATEX President Alex Zucchi. “It provided a catalyst for partnerships, investment and industrial development that continues to shape their trajectories. This ongoing momentum highlights the role of ITMA not only as a marketplace for machinery, but also as a launchpad for emerging technologies and materials that will define the future of textiles.”

For ITMA 2027, only 20 start-ups will be selected for the CEMATEX Start-Up Grant programme. The package includes a subsidised exhibition stand, pavilion exposure, global marketing visibility and access to industry stakeholders across the textile value chain.

Applications are open to start-ups working in areas such as advanced materials, automation, digitalisation and sustainability.

Apply for Start-Up Valley at ITMA 2027

Last chance to apply: ITMA 2027 Start-Up Valley closes tomorrow

Applications for the Start-Up Valley at ITMA 2027 close tomorrow, offering young technology companies the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of several successful participants from the 2023 edition. The initiative, organised under the CEMATEX Start-Up Grant programme, has already helped a number of textile start-ups accelerate their transition from early-stage concepts to industrial partnerships, funding rounds and commercial deployment.

20 Start-Ups selected for CEMATEX Start-Up Grant at ITMA 2027

CEMATEX has selected 20 emerging start-ups from nine countries to receive the CEMATEX Start-Up Grant and showcase their innovations at Start-Up Valley during ITMA 2027 in Hanover. Their participation will be fully funded by CEMATEX, giving promising early-stage companies access to the world’s leading textile and garment technology platform.

ITMA 2027 receives strong industry response

ITMA 2027 has unveiled its sector plan, marking progress towards the 2027 edition as planning continues ahead of the show. The ITMA 2027 sector plan covers 12 halls at the Messegelände Hannover venue, spanning over 180,000 square metres, and features 20 sectors of the textile and garment making processes, from spinning to finishing, software and automation, recycling, and fibres, yarns and fabrics.

ITMA 2027 gains strong momentum

In line with the theme "Co-creating the future of textiles", ITMA continues to strengthen its support for start-ups, recognising their role in driving innovation and shaping the future of textile and garment manufacturing. Through the Start-Up Valley, emerging companies gain access to a global marketplace where they can connect with industry leaders, potential partners, investors and customers.

ITMA 2027: Exhibitors can now apply for ITMA 2027 stand space

Stand space application is now open for ITMA 2027. The 7-day exhibition will be held at Messegelaende Hannover, Germany from 16 to 22 September 2027. Featuring the theme Co-creating the Future of Textiles, the exhibition is expected to bring together global leaders and innovators to shape the industry’s future.

SHIMA SEIKI to showcase digital product creation at Apparel Sourcing Week

Leading digital textile solutions provider SHIMA SEIKI MFG., LTD. of Wakayama, Japan will exhibit at Apparel Sourcing Week 2026 in Bengaluru, India next month. The exhibition provides a platform for the entire apparel value chain, bringing together manufacturers, brands, suppliers and solution providers in one location.

SNA GZ accelerates its on-demand production strategy with Kornit Digital

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NEUMÜHLE launches mono-material hoodie designed for textile recycling

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New Cotton Review examines competitiveness, market risk, and opportunities

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