2026 TBAT Innovation Challenge

CPHI Milan

Find out details for CPHI Milan and TBAT Innovations Prize Package for the Innovation Challenge

As part of the Innovation Challenge 2026 prize package, TBAT Innovation is offering the chance to win a spot on an Exhibition Stand in the Start-Up Zone at CPHI Milan 2026, taking place 6th-8th October 2026.

In addition to the exhibition stand, MedTech Makers Lab will kindly cover the accommodation and return flights to Milan. This prize is for one person only.

 

What is CPHI Milan?

With 62,000 attendees, CPHI is the largest gathering in the pharma industry, providing unparalleled opportunities to discover, plan, and connect with the community, enabling you to meet both existing and new contacts.

Featuring over 2,400 exhibitors covering the entire pharma supply chain, CPHI Milan allows you to propel your business forward by connecting with trusted names, sourcing new suppliers, and discovering the latest innovations in the growing start-up hub.

CPHI provides an opportunity to network across the entire global pharma supply chain, connecting with professionals to explore opportunities and secure contracts, driving your business success.

Where: Fiera Milano, Italy
Dates: 6th – 8th October 2026

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CPHI by Informa logo RGB Milan 2026 Indigo (002)

Am I eligible for this prize?

To be eligible for a stand in the Start-Up Market, your company must:

  • Classify itself as a ‘Start-Up’
  • Be active in the pharma, biopharma, digital, sustainability, or medical device sector
  • Qualify as a micro or small enterprise according to the EU definition (fewer than 50 full-time employees and an annual turnover of less than EUR 10 million)
  • Have a product at the proof of concept, prototype, or commercialised stage
  • Commit to attending CPHI Milan, 6th-8th October 2026
  • Demonstrate potential for growth and scalability
CPHI Image

How do I apply?

In order to win a spot at CPHI Milan, you must submit an application to the Innovation Challenge 2026, specifying that you would also like to be considered for the CPHI prize. By entering into the competition, you will be eligible to win the overall Innovation Challenge, in addition to winning the CPHI prize.

Please note: The event in Milan will take place at the same time as the Innovation Challenge Finalist Showcase. Therefore, if you are awarded the CPHI prize, you will need to ensure that a representative can attend the event in Milan while another representative attends the TBAT Finalist Showcase in Warwickshire.

What is the Innovation Challenge?

The Innovation Challenge is brought to you by TBAT Innovation, with headline sponsor Shakespeare Martineau, and Platinum Sponsor Barclays Eagle Labs. It leverages the expertise of our unique partner network while seeing our partners come together to deliver four free-to-attend, vibrant, and informative workshops.

For a chance to win the 2026 Innovation Challenge, businesses will be encouraged to apply by filling out a straightforward application form and submitting relevant documents. The application window will open on 24th June 2026, and will close on the 12th August 2026. 

The comprehensive prize package (worth over 100k*) is generously provided by our esteemed partners. From a £50,000 cash prize to invest in R&D to PR support and a recruitment fitness assessment, we’re confident that the array of services provided will be immensely advantageous for SMEs. If you would like further details on applying for the Innovation Challenge, please click here.

The Top 10 shortlisted applicants will be invited to pitch at our Finalist Showcase Event, being held on the evening of 7th October 2026, where a winner will be announced

Prize Package

Discover the 2026 prize package available for this years winners and runners up

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Sponsors

Take a look at the full details of our esteemed sponsors

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Applications

Thinking of applying? Find out full application details here

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Terms & Conditions

  • You must confirm you have a representative available to attend the conference in Milan on the 6th- 8th October 2026, as well as a representative available to attend the showcase final on the 7th October 2026.
  • The prize fund covers return flights for ONE PERSON. Full details TBC. 
  • Accommodation details in Milan TBC. 
  • In order to win a spot at CPHI, you must be eligible for a stand in the Start-Up Market, meeting the requirements specified by CPHI here.