Apply for ITA support and secure your place at one of the most relevant startup-investor events in the CEE region.
If international growth is part of your 2026 strategy, Podim 2026 (11โ13 May 2026, Maribor, Slovenia) offers a focused opportunity to meet investors, corporates, and partners actively looking for collaboration and innovation.
This year, the Italian Trade Agency (ITA) will support the participation of 10 Italian startups, covering their Podim ticket and enabling them to join the event with dedicated visibility and networking opportunities.
โฐ Application deadline: 22 February
๐๏ธ ITA-supported spots available: 10
Why join Podim 2026?
Marketplace visibility
Present your startup in the Podim Marketplace and showcase your solution directly to investors, corporates, partners, and potential customers.
Curated 1:1 investor and corporate meetings
Access the Podim Deal Room and participate in pre-arranged meetings with stakeholders actively seeking partnerships and investment opportunities.
International pitching opportunity
Apply to the Podim Pitching Competition and present your startup on an international stage alongside top companies from the region.
High-value networking
Connect with founders, investors, and decision-makers through curated side events and informal networking moments where long-term partnerships often begin.
What ITA offers
Startups selected by ITA will receive:
- 1 complimentary Podim 2026 ticket per startup
- Access to a dedicated Italy-focused side event
- Additional exposure within the Italian startup delegation
How to take advantage of this opportunity
To maximise your chances, complete both applications:
- Apply to Podim 2026 to secure your participation in the event and access all meetings, networking, and Marketplace opportunities.
- Apply to the ITA call for the opportunity to have your ticket covered.
ITA will select 10 startups whose tickets will be fully funded. Startups not selected for ITA support can still participate in Podim by purchasing a regular ticket, ensuring full access to the eventโs meetings, exposure, and growth opportunities.
Apply now
If expanding internationally is one of your priorities for 2026, Podim offers a highly efficient way to connect with the right investors, partners, and customers in just three days.
Submit both applications to be considered for ITA support:
โฐ Deadline: 22 February
๐๏ธ ITA-supported spots: 10
โฐ Deadline: 22 February
Please note: Only startups that submit both applications (Podim + ITA call) will be eligible for ITA-supported participation.
