Innovation Area 2026

The call is aimed at startups, scaleups, university spinoffs, and research teams, in Italy and abroad, that develop:

• Technological solutions for the fitness, wellness, sports tourism, and health sectors (e.g., digital applications, artificial intelligence, wearable devices).
• Digital services that enhance the consumer experience in the world of wellness, fitness, and sports tourism.
• Innovative models of nutrition and food, with a focus on health and wellness.
• Projects related to wellness tourism, with solutions that improve the travel experience, social inclusion, and enhance local territories.
• Products for rehabilitation and physical wellness through advanced technologies.

The focus is on solutions that are scalable, innovative, and capable of generating positive and lasting impacts on the market.

Every application will be carefully evaluated by a jury of industry experts, based on clear and transparent criteria:

1. Technological Innovation

The level of innovation of the proposed solution will be assessed, with particular attention to the use or development of advanced technologies (e.g., AI, IoT, digital platforms, wearables, telemedicine, immersive solutions) applied to the relevant sectors. Qualifying elements include technological maturity, intellectual property, integration between technology and user-centered design, and the ability to generate a competitive advantage.

2. Scalability and Market Potential

The project must demonstrate a clear, sustainable, and scalable business model at both national and international levels.

The following will be evaluated: adaptability of the model to different geographical contexts, level of digitalization, and initial evidence of commercial validation (traction, partnerships, active customers).

3. Social and Economic Impact

A key element will be the Startup’s ability to generate a positive and measurable impact on people’s health, well-being, and inclusion.

Particular attention will be given to solutions that improve accessibility for vulnerable groups, promote autonomy and quality of life, reduce social or healthcare costs, and enhance local communities in a sustainable way.

4. Team and Skills

The strength of the entrepreneurial team will be assessed in terms of technical, medical-scientific, digital, and managerial skills, as well as the complementarity of profiles and overall team balance.

Added value includes industry experience, a qualified advisory board, and already established strategic partnerships.

5. Investor Attractiveness

The project must demonstrate clear growth potential and return on investment.

The coherence of the economic and financial plan, sustainability of capital requirements, competitive positioning, and ability to attract investors, incubators, or industrial partners will be evaluated.

BONUS SUSTAINABILITY CRITERION for startups that integrate environmental and social sustainability principles into their business model.

Selected startups for the Innovation Area will receive a series of benefits designed to accelerate their growth and visibility:

• Dedicated Exhibition Space: Each startup will have the opportunity to present its innovative solutions within the RiminiWellness exhibition area, where investors, industrial partners, and thousands of international visitors will have the chance to learn about them.
• Networking with Investors and Strategic Partners: Startups will have access to organized networking sessions, one-to-one meetings, and speed dates with investors, venture capitalists, and strategic partners.
• Pitch in the Innovation Arena: Each selected startup will have the opportunity to present its project in front of an expert jury, with the possibility of receiving feedback and increasing its visibility.
• Media Visibility and Promotion: Each selected startup will benefit from strong media exposure on RiminiWellness's official channels, with press coverage before, during, and after the event.
• Participation for Italian and foreign startups in Rimini Wellness is offered completely free of charge. However, due to the limited number of available spots and the importance of optimizing event management, we kindly request that the confirmation of participation be binding. For SMEs, a minimum investment of €500 + VAT will be required.

The selection process is structured in several steps to ensure maximum transparency and attention:

• Application: Startups can submit their application through the dedicated online form, available on the official RiminiWellness website, by February 27, 2026.
• Preliminary Evaluation: All applications will be examined by a commission of sector experts, who will select the startups with the greatest potential.
• Final Selection: The most promising projects will be chosen to exhibit within the RiminiWellness 2026 Innovation Area.
• Confirmation of Selected Startups and Registration by: March 17, 2026.

Are you a startup or innovative SME in the Fitness, Wellness, Sports Tourism, or Health sector? Don't miss the opportunity to become part of the next revolution in the world of wellness and sport. Submit your application by February 27, 2026, and prepare to present your project within the RiminiWellness 2026 Innovation Area.