| Acceleration

i4Challenge

Industrial Transformation in the era of smart technology

Industry 4.0 is the name given to the next phase of the Industrial Revolution that focuses heavily on interconnectivity, automation, machine learning, real-time data, AI, teams and organization, and new business models.

Making the move from traditional production models into the next generation of smart technology shaped by increased connectivity, Internet of Things (IoT) applications, and data-driven solutions are essential for businesses that don’t want to get left behind.

Industrial transformation is already seeing factories become increasingly automated and self-monitored as machines are given the ability to analyze and communicate with each other. But Industry 4.0 isn’t just about investing in new technology and tools to improve manufacturing efficiency—it’s about revolutionizing the way your entire business operates and grows while still meeting customers and supplier’s expectations.

That’s why we are looking for your innovative solutions!

The i4Challenge is divided into three tracks:

SME

with sustainable industry 4.0 solutions or services.

Startups

with existing Industry 4.0 solutions or services.

New Ideas

for students, intrapreneurs, entrepreneurs and tech teams with great new ideas in innovating the industry.

Eligible are applications from Switzerland, Alsace France, and Baden-Württemberg Germany. For SME and Startups, they must be able to demonstrate a prototype or a product.

A prestigious panel of industry leaders will evaluate the submitted projects and ideas and select several to proceed to the finals.

Applications are now open.

Ready to apply with your innovative project?

Apply now

Key dates:

Application: 01.04.21 – 15.07.21
Jury evaluation: 24.08.- 25.08.21
Winners announced: 30.09.2021
SME & Startups
BE 4.0 Mulhouse: 30.11. -01.12.2021
New Ideas
Accelerator Programm: January-June 2022

Watch the video

Download the flyer

Program benefits

I4Challenge benefits

Projects accepted through the i4Challenge receive several benefits to help foster successful commercial launch and business success of Industry 4.0 projects. These include:

Exposure through Basel Area Business & Innovation online channels
Access to the Basel Area Business & Innovation Industry 4.0 network of experts, innovators, businesses, investors, and more
Mentoring from industry experts

Additionally for SME and Startups:

An exhibition space at the BE 4.0 trade fair in Mulhouse
Possibility to appear as keynote speaker at one of our events
Access to a coworking space for six months in one of our four Switzerland Innovation Park Basel Area sites
Free one-year membership to the Société Industrielle de Mulhouse (SIM)
Privileged access to the network and activities of the partners of the Interreg Titan-e project

Accelerator Program in the Canton Jura for New ideas:

Tailormade mentoring from industry experts
Support for further development of the idea
Access to a coworking space for six months at the Switzerland Innovation Park Basel Area Site Jura

About BE 4.0 Fair for industry 4.0 in Mulhouse

Salon Industries du Futur BE 4.0 is one of the most important meeting places for European Industry 4.0 solution providers and interested parties. The fair offers a platform for 180 Swiss, French and German companies to present their latest innovations in the field of Industry 4.0. Over 3,500 visitors are expected on both days.