Ankorstore, Comexposium and WSN sign an unprecedented partnership to combine the best of the digital and physical worlds
From alternative proteins to artificial intelligence, and from new ingredients to precision farming technologies, start-ups are now playing a leading role in transforming the food industry. More agile, more specialised and often pioneers in new applications, they are exploring the frontiers of innovation that will shape the food of tomorrow.
At a time when the agri-food sector is facing a multitude of challenges – including environmental transition, changing consumer expectations, product customisation, food sovereignty and the digitalisation of value chains – start ups are emerging as genuine hubs for ideas and experimentation. As a global platform for food innovation, SIAL Paris is making these entrepreneurs a cornerstone of its 2026 edition. With more than 650 start-ups expected at the show, including nearly 150 gathered within the The SIAL Start-Up Village: the event reaffirms its role as an accelerator for those who are devising the solutions of tomorrow.
A unique ecosystem to accelerate their developpement
A genuine springboard for start-ups, SIAL Start-Up offers much more than just an exhibition space. Designed as a hub for networking and opportunities, it enables entrepreneurs to showcase their innovations to an international audience comprising buyers, manufacturers, distributors, investors and industry experts. The start-ups taking part reflect the diversity of the transformations underway in the sector: new production processes, alternative ingredients, technological solutions for agriculture, functional foods and new consumption models. These initiatives all demonstrate the dynamism of the global foodtech sector and its ability to develop concrete solutions that meet market expectations. The trade fair will offer start-ups the opportunity to gain visibility through several flagship competitions. Among Among the new features of this year’s event is the launch of the SIAL For Change Start-up & SME Award, specifically designed to recognise start-ups and SMEs making a positive impact. Start-ups will also be eligible for the highly coveted SIAL Innovation Award, which each year recognises the market’s most significant innovations through a dedicated prize.
“Start-ups play a vital role in the SIAL Paris ecosystem. They explore new frontiers of innovation, challenge established models and provide concrete solutions to the major changes taking place in the food sector. Our role is to offer them a platform capable of boosting their visibility, facilitating networking and accelerating their development on an international scale,” emphasises Audrey Ashworth, Director of SIAL Paris.
More than just a dedicated space, SIAL Start-Up has become a prime observatory for the major transformations taking place in the food industry. It is a place where ideas emerge, where connections create opportunities, and where the contours of the food of tomorrow are already taking shape.