The robotics, automation and photonics industry is evolving at an unprecedented pace, with groundbreaking innovations reshaping manufacturing, logistics, and industrial processes on one hand, with looming trade wars and recession on the other. Yet, for startups leading the innovation, technological advancement alone is not enough. Meeting clients, gaining visibility, funding, and industry validation are critical success factors, and finding the right platform to achieve them can be challenging.
You’ve got to be in Munich on 24th – 27th June 2025
The Start-Up Arena, taking place June 24-27, 2025, in Munich, provides an exceptional opportunity for early-stage companies to accelerate growth, connect with investors, and engage with potential customers and strategic partners. The event, held at automatica 2025 and Laser World of Photonics, is a leading European exhibition for smart automation, robotics, and photonics startups.
Start-ups need more than just technology
The robotics and automation sector is increasingly competitive, and early-stage companies must think beyond product development. Three key factors define a startup’s success:
- Networking: startups with established industry connections scale three times faster than those without. Engaging with key players, potential customers, and investors is a crucial growth driver.
- Market validation: early-stage companies that gather customer feedback and refine their offering based on industry insights have a significantly higher success rate.
- Funding: investors are prioritizing companies that demonstrate clear market potential and traction. A strong network and exposure to the right audience can significantly enhance funding prospects.
The Start-Up Arena is designed to address these challenges by offering a high-impact space for visibility, engagement, and strategic growth.
What to expect at the Start-Up Arena
For four days, the Start-Up Arena will host a dynamic mix of pitching sessions, networking opportunities, and panel discussions tailored to the needs of automation, robotics and photonics startups. The event brings together over 40,000 industry professionals, investors, and decision-makers, offering startups an opportunity to:
Pitch to venture capitalists and corporates looking for innovative solutions.
- Pitch to venture capitalists and corporates looking for innovative solutions.
- Meet potential customers and partners to validate and scale their business.
- Take part in discussions and networking events designed to open doors to new opportunities.
- Use the global reach of automatica & Laser World of Photonics to gain international exposure.
- Present their technology to thousands of industry professionals and investors.
As part of the FundingBox initiative, the Start-Up Arena is organized in collaboration with Messe München, the host of automatica & Laser World of Photonics, and key industry partners. This strategic alignment ensures that exhibitors benefit from targeted exposure to decision-makers and industry experts actively seeking innovation.
Proven impact
The impact of the Start-Up Arena is reflected in the success stories of past participants.
“Start-Up Arena was a great experience in 2023, and we are looking forward to being part of it again in 2025!” , comments ARTI, 2023 participant
With nine out of ten previous exhibitors planning to return, it is clear that the event delivers tangible benefits. From securing funding to landing new business deals, startups consistently report that the opportunities generated at automatica contribute significantly to their growth and industry positioning.
How to participate
Startups in robotics, AI, industrial automation, photonics, and related fields are invited to apply for a dedicated exhibition space within the Start-Up Arena. Special exhibitor packages are available, providing an all-inclusive setup with a professional booth, branding opportunities, and access to high-profile networking events.
For ambitious startups ready to take the next step, automatica 2025 presents an opportunity to gain visibility, secure investment, and build critical industry connections.
Book a meeting with Ola Sawicka Green, Project Manager, to discuss your participation
Innovation alone does not guarantee success. The ability to position a startup within the right ecosystem – one that fosters growth, funding, and strategic alliances – can make the difference between a breakthrough and stagnation.
With a proven track record of connecting startups with industry leaders, investors, and new business opportunities, the Start-Up Arena at automatica 2025 is a MUST for any early-stage company looking to scale.
Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of the future of automation, so do not wait to apply.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED ©