SIDE EVENTS

#WMF2026

Exclusive events, vertical meetings, parties, and immersive experiences:

during WMF, Bologna becomes a widespread ecosystem of innovation.

What are side events

Exclusive events, meetings, and formats distributed throughout the city, extending the WMF experience beyond the trade fair grounds.

Private networking events | Industry meetups | Investor dinners | Tech showcase |Cultural & entertainment experiences

How to participate

Check the calendar, discover the events, and take part: some are open to all, while others are by invitation only or have limited seating. *more information will be added daily

Organize a side event

Bring your brand into the official program: organize a Side Event and connect with the WMF global community.

The experience beyond the fair: why participate

During the days of WMF, innovation spreads throughout the entire city: Side Events involve companies, startups, institutions, and communities in a widespread calendar of appointments, creating new opportunities for networking, business, and cross-contamination.

Companies

Generate strategic relationships, organize events and position within the WMF ecosystem

qualified leads | positioning | custom events

Professionals

Access exclusive events and networking moments with speakers, companies and innovators.

exclusive access | concrete networking

Startups & Innovators

Meet international investors, VCs, partners and stakeholders in high-quality environments.

visibility | investor access

Special WMF Events in the city- Bologna

Special Partner NightDAMA Technopole – Bologna
Special Partner Night
DAMA Technopole – Bologna
📅 June 23, 2026
🕒 18:30 PM | Conference - 20:00 PM | Networking & Light Dinner

An appointment reserved for a selected audience of stakeholders, institutions, corporates, and innovation leaders, hosted inside the DAMA Technopole, one of the most advanced centres in Europe for supercomputing and data research. In this location of excellence, the heart of the Italian AI and high-performance computing ecosystem, the event will offer a unique context for strategic discussion on the main technological and industrial scenarios.

In program: speech and discussion panels and business aperitif.

A high-value opportunity to foster qualified relationships, targeted networking moments, and high-level discussions on AI, data economy, and digital transformation, with the goal of generating concrete connections between research, business, and institutions, and contributing to the development of the Business of Tomorrow.”

Innovation NightPalazzo Re Enzo - Bologna
Innovation Night
Palazzo Re Enzo - Bologna
📅 June 24, 2026
🕒 20:00

The event dedicated to the meeting between founders and investors, where you can share ideas and have fun creating new relationships. The perfect opportunity to network informally and enjoy an inspiring and festive atmosphere.

WMF Official Community Party

📅 June 24 - from 21:30 pm

📍 Palazzo Re Enzo, Bologna

TICKETS AVAILABLE FOR 15€ VAT INCLUDED

The official WMF party arrives in Piazza San Francesco in Bologna! An evening of pure fun with music and DJ Set.

Guests already announced: Pau [Negrita] with a 90s-themed DJ set to rock out to the most beloved hits.

New guests will be announced soon, in the meantime, mark your calendar and don't miss the WMF Official Party 2026!

Partner events inside the BolognaFiere venue

Discover the confirmed events
24, 25, 26 JUNE - BOLOGNAFIERE
Investor DayJune 24th | 12:00 AM - 17:00B2B Area
Investor Day
June 24th | 12:00 AM - 17:00
B2B Area

An event bringing together Invitalia and the entrepreneurial community to showcase support resources for startups, active grants and new opportunities for growth and innovation.
The event is exclusive and by invitation only.

RICCA IT - Cloudless AI: Meet Arianna, the personalized and confidential on-premise Corporate AIJune 24th | 11:00 - 13:00Motorhome
RICCA IT - Cloudless AI: Meet Arianna, the personalized and confidential on-premise Corporate AI

June 24th | 11:00 - 13:00
Motorhome

Arianna is the corporate AI assistant designed by Ricca IT, an Italian company specializing in System Integration, Cloud Services, Cybersecurity, and Artificial Intelligence. Using cloud solutions increases concerns about privacy, security, and regulatory compliance. Arianna offers a concrete alternative: all the power of Artificial Intelligence available on the market, but completely safe within the corporate infrastructure.
The event will be followed by a light lunch.

Press Conference PERFETTO + aperitif June 24th | 12.30 - 13.15Services Center
Press Conference PERFETTO + aperitif

June 24th | 12.30 - 13.15
Services Center

The press conference of the Italian network of Technology Transfer Offices (TTOs) in the Life Sciences sector. A company that provides services, innovative tools, and resources to promote a culture of technology transfer by enhancing Italian research.

The event is restricted access.

Startup Day XI editionUNIBOJune 24th | Stage + Expo
Startup Day XI edition
UNIBO
June 24th | Stage + Expo

Regional ecosystem event dedicated to innovation and research, focusing on youth entrepreneurship and deep-tech projects to promote ecological transition and social inclusion. There will be two stages and an exhibition area dedicated to startups.

ART4ART - Facilitating and securing co-design and co-programmingJune 24th | 15:00Motorhome
ART4ART - Facilitating and securing co-design and co-programming
June 24th | 15:00
Motorhome

ART4ART — together with Fondazione Entroterre's Progetto Zenit and Alberto Barbiero — hosts a discussion between Public Administrations and Third Sector Organizations on implementing co-programming and co-design processes. During the meeting, an exclusive preview of a new platform will be presented, specifically designed to simplify and secure procedures, easing collaboration between the public sector and the Third Sector.

CNR IIT - Cybersecurity e NIS2June 24th | 16:00Stand C35-D34, Hall 30
CNR IIT - Cybersecurity e NIS2
June 24th | 16:00
Stand C35-D34, Hall 30

The Registro .it (Cnr) presents a focus on the NIS2 directive and the future of European cybersecurity. The session, dedicated to new digital obligations and risk management for businesses and public administrations, will feature Andrea Passarella, Director and Head of Registro .it and Andrea Rigoni, Founder and Managing Partner of Altirium.

CLUSTER INNOVATE Future-Conscious InnovationJune 24 - 25 - 26Services Center
CLUSTER INNOVATE
Future-Conscious Innovation
June 24 - 25 - 26
Services Center

An event dedicated to the discussion on the development of innovative services and ICT technological research, powered by Clust-er Innovate.

CLUSTER TOURISM | CLUSTER AGRIFOODAI for Smart TerritoriesJune 24 - 25 - 26Services Center
CLUSTER TOURISM | CLUSTER AGRIFOOD
AI for Smart Territories
June 24 - 25 - 26
Services Center

An event dedicated to exploring innovations in land, tourism, and agritech powered by Clust-er BUILD, Clust-er Tourism, and Clust-er Agrifood.

Humans.techJune 24 - 25 - 26 HALL 30 - D37-E34
Humans.tech
June 24 - 25 - 26
HALL 30 - D37-E34

From June 24th to 26th, Humans.tech will offer a series of demos focused on Artificial Intelligence and software engineering.
Through these presentations and technical insights hosted by the team's experts, real-world case studies, working methodologies and architectures for AI agent control will be illustrated, alternating the talks with networking opportunities during breakfasts and coffee breaks.
Find out more at the Humans.tech stand.

ITSSxellence Academy24 -25 - 26 June 9.30 AM - 16.30 Hall 30
ITSSxellence Academy
24 -25 - 26 June
9.30 AM - 16.30
Hall 30

TSSIxellence is the Academy training tomorrow's professionals in Digital Marketing, Business Administration and Commercial Services. At WMF 2026, the institute takes the stage with practical insights and real-world experiences on the future of business. A strategic meeting point for companies looking for skilled talent and young professionals ready to launch their careers through real connections and future-proof skills.

Orti Lunari - ITS PiemonteJune 24 - 25 - 26 Exhibition Area
Orti Lunari - ITS Piemonte
June 24 - 25 - 26
Exhibition Area

The presentation of an innovative solution for home cultivation that integrates an advanced environmental control and growth system, optimizing lighting and parameters. "Orto Lunare" provides fresh food and cleanses the air, contributing to sustainability.

Social Media StrategiesSUMMER EDITIONJune 24 - 25 - 26
Social Media Strategies
SUMMER EDITION
June 24 - 25 - 26

A training event dedicated to social media marketing and web marketing. Three days of training interventions and discussion with experts and creators.

Chora & Will Media New Media AcademyJune 24 - 25 - 26 New Media Academy Stand Hall 30, Stand D45-E42
Chora & Will Media New Media Academy

June 24 - 25 - 26
New Media Academy Stand
Hall 30, Stand D45-E42

Chora & Will Media are organizing a series of vertical workshops focused on the new frontiers of podcasts, the creator economy and digital information. These meetings offer a practical response through hands-on sessions dedicated to brainstorming techniques, podcasting, AI tools applied to creativity and much more. Register for the workshops for free via the Web App.

ZESTEcosystem Meetup WMF EditionJune 25th | 19.00 - 21.00
ZEST
Ecosystem Meetup
WMF Edition
June 25th | 19.00 - 21.00

Ecosystem Meetup | WMF Edition, part of We Make Future in Bologna, is an unmissable event dedicated to the innovation ecosystem and part of the Ecosystem Events promoted by Zest to enhance dialogue between industry leaders. Founders of startups, corporations, investors, and professionals from the tech, VC and digital worlds come together to network, create valuable connections and strengthen relationships that generate new opportunities. An aperitif and greeting from the initiative partners is planned.

Gruppo Euris Spa - Miro Italia Community DaysJune 25 -26 Services Center
Gruppo Euris Spa - Miro Italia Community Days
June 25 -26
Services Center

Miro Italia Community Days is the event designed by Euris in partnership with Miro to inspire the future of collaborative workspaces and the AI-powered Canvas. Two sessions of about 4 hours each in a private room inside the venue, focused on sharing experiences, building new connections, and discovering together the technologies transforming collaboration and innovation.
Register for free directly through the Web App.

Built to Scale - HealthTech Startups Demo DayJune 25th | 9:00 - 13:00 AMMotorhome
Built to Scale - HealthTech Startups Demo Day
June 25th | 9:00 - 13:00 AM
Motorhome

Powered by WIPO, Rubik Hub, Innovate EU, Imago-Mol, and Digital Innovation Zone, the "Built to Scale - HealthTech Startups Demo Day" is an event dedicated to medical and biotech innovation. During the showcase, early-stage startups from the IP Management Clinic will present their projects, demonstrating how to transform scientific research and intellectual property into scalable businesses. It is a premier networking opportunity with the Life Science ecosystem, topped off by the final awards ceremony granting prestigious MBA scholarships for Cambridge. Admission is by registration only.

Assintel - La via del Digitale per le imprese italianeJune 25th | 10:00 - 12:30 AM
Assintel - La via del Digitale per le imprese italiane
June 25th | 10:00 - 12:30 AM

Assintel's business roadshow features data, case studies, and networking to delve deeper into artificial intelligence as a lever for competitiveness and growth in the Italian digital market.

The event is For Associates Only.

Course AI - Flowerista June 25th | 10.30 AM-18.00Services Center
Course AI - Flowerista
June 25th | 10.30 AM-18.00
Services Center

Prompt’n’Play celebrates its 2nd anniversary: experience co-designing environments with Agentic AI, using Prompt’n’Play and BrAIn while receiving real-time feedback from the algorithms. The event features two 30-seat workshops and an open space to explore a serious game already chosen by many companies for AI Adoption. A unique opportunity to collaborate with generative AI, training critical, lateral thinking and collective intelligence.

Seats are limited, subscribe now to participate!

Aruba Digital SchoolJune 25th | 11.30 - 13.00 AMServices Center
Aruba Digital School
June 25th | 11.30 - 13.00 AM
Services Center

Official presentation and opening day of the 5th edition of the Aruba Digital School, scheduled for June 25th from11.30 - 13.00 am at WMF.
This 90-minute session combines training and a roundtable discussion, focusing on the evolution of AI, Google Ads, and Social Media in business.
Access is free, subject to prior registration.

Reluis Consortium, AI4I, ARTISTS - AI in civil engineeringJune 25th | 11:30 AM - 16:00
Reluis Consortium, AI4I, ARTISTS - AI in civil engineering
June 25th | 11:30 AM - 16:00

The Reluis Consortium, AI4I, and the International Association for Artificial Intelligence in Structural Engineering are creating a thematic stage entirely dedicated to the discovery of artificial intelligence applied to civil engineering.

CNR IIT - Dal dato alla strategia: l'indagine sul futuro dei dominiJune 25th | 14:00Stand C35-D34, Hall 30
CNR IIT - Dal dato alla strategia: l'indagine sul futuro dei domini
June 25th | 14:00
Stand C35-D34, Hall 30

The Registro .it (Cnr) presents a focus on the evolution of AI and search, which is transforming online visibility. The session, dedicated to assessing the impact of this shift on websites and domains, will feature speaker Mirko Bruni (CEO of The Fool), who will present the initial insights of a strategic survey, exploring topics such as digital trust, "Made in Italy" and the relationship between the web and social media.

Search Tech EVENTJune 25-26 | 11:50 AM - 17:50
Search Tech EVENT
June 25-26 | 11:50 AM - 17:50

An advanced training event, with national and international experts, to discover how search is evolving in the age of artificial intelligence and beyond.

Komen Italia - Metabolic WalkingJune 25th | 19:00 Exhibition Area
Komen Italia - Metabolic Walking
June 25th | 19:00
Exhibition Area

Komen Italia organizes the annual Race for the Cure throughout Italy to fight breast cancer. Together with the WMF, on June 25th it is organizing a 2 km metabolic walk: an alternative and unique route that winds through the attractions of the event. At the same time, anyone who wishes will be able to register directly for the Bologna stage of the Race, scheduled for September 18th to 20th.

PROPOSE YOUR EVENTContact us to organize it with the support of the WMF team
PROPOSE YOUR EVENT


Contact us to organize it with the support of the WMF team

Speakeasy

Discover the first speakeasies announced inside the WMF: networking events reserved for startups and investors
Nana Bianca - Italian Lifestyle June 24th | 17.00Motorhome Hall 29
Nana Bianca - Italian Lifestyle

June 24th | 17.00
Motorhome Hall 29

Nana Bianca and Intesa Sanpaolo present ILS: the program that brings the most ambitious startups to work alongside the largest Italian corporations. Real-life stories, guided networking and connections that turn into opportunities.

Arsenalia - SpeakeasyJune 25th | 14.30 - 17.30Motorhome Hall 29
Arsenalia - Speakeasy

June 25th | 14.30 - 17.30
Motorhome Hall 29

A reserved space for small groups dedicated to the impact of AI on business models. Through micro-sessions, Arsenalia offers a deep dive into key evolutions: from intent-driven experiences to brand visibility with Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) and AI as an integrated design lever. An informal yet structured format designed to foster dialogue through concrete case studies.

Reservation required.

ICEX Invest in Spain - Business LunchJune 25th | 13:00 - 14:30B2B AREA
ICEX Invest in Spain - Business Lunch

June 25th | 13:00 - 14:30
B2B AREA
An exclusive business lunch with ICEX Invest in Spain to discover expansion opportunities in the Spanish market. During the meeting, Martin Jerch (Head of Department at ICEX) will present "Rising Up in Spain", the soft-landing program designed to support international startups and scaleups in accessing EU funding, local partners and strategic networks. A casual networking opportunity to discover how to use Spain as a gateway to global markets.
The event is by invitation only.
UIBM - EPO Protecting and enhancing innovation: services and tools for startups, SMEs and spinoffsJune 26th | 13:00Motorhome Hall 29
UIBM - EPO

Protecting and enhancing innovation: services and tools for startups, SMEs and spinoffs
June 26th | 13:00
Motorhome Hall 29

A meeting organized by UIBM (Italian Patent and Trademark Office) and EPO (European Patent Office), dedicated to startups, SMEs and spin-offs, aimed at exploring the role of industrial property as a strategic lever for growth and competitiveness. During the event, services, tools, and initiatives supporting the protection and valorization of innovation will be presented, with particular focus on methodologies for assessing patent portfolios.
The event is free admission.

SPECIAL EVENTS INSIDE WMF
June 24, 25, 26 BOLOGNAFIERE
Opening CeremonyCONCERT PATAGARRIJune 24th | 9:30 AMMainstage
Opening Ceremony
CONCERT PATAGARRI

June 24th | 9:30 AM
Mainstage
Jet Suit Flight DisplayJune 24 - 25 | 13:00External Area
Jet Suit Flight Display

June 24 - 25 | 13:00
External Area

A spectacular powered human flight, with gravity-defying performers in front of the Festival audience. A mix of adrenaline and technology not to be missed.

Allumee - DRONE LIGHT SHOW JUNE 25th | 21:15
Allumee - DRONE LIGHT SHOW
JUNE 25th | 21:15

The spectacular Drone Light Show by Allumee is coming to WMF: thousands of drones will light up the sky with 3D choreography, fluid animations and floating words. A unique, zero-emission technological performance designed to reinvent entertainment with an eco-responsible approach. An extraordinary visual experience blending art, poetry and engineering to leave the audience breathless.

DronesoccerJune 24-25-269:00 AM - 19:00 | HALL 21
Dronesoccer

June 24-25-26
9:00 AM - 19:00 | HALL 21

During the next edition of the WMF, the first European Dronesoccer Championship, the innovative drone esport, will take place exclusively: in addition to watching the competition, you will be able to experience the thrill of this innovative eSport firsthand.

Test Drive24-25-26 giugno | 10:00 AM - 18:00 External Area - Test Drive
Test Drive

24-25-26 giugno | 10:00 AM - 18:00
External Area - Test Drive

During the three days of the WMF, you can enjoy the unique experience of driving a Tesla thanks to the dedicated Test Drive Area. An exclusive opportunity to test firsthand the performance and technology of electric vehicles that are revolutionizing the future of sustainable mobility. Book your slot and get ready to board!

Edimotive - Perché comprarla LIVEJune 24-25-26 | 10:00 AM - 18:00External Area - Test Drive
Edimotive - Perché comprarla LIVE
June 24-25-26 | 10:00 AM - 18:00
External Area - Test Drive

Motor1's experiential area on electric mobility, with live talks and test drives to delve deeper into the energy transition through discussions with journalists and on-road vehicle testing.

RACE4FUTUREAutomotive ShowJune 24-25-26 Exhibition Area
RACE4FUTURE
Automotive Show

June 24-25-26

Exhibition Area

Race4Future will animate the WMF with a rich program dedicated to sustainable mobility and the technologies of the future. For three days, the Mall will host the Automotive Show, an experiential area featuring electric vehicles, green innovations, and smart solutions.

Playing fieldsJune 24-25-26 | 9:00 am - 19:00 pmExhibition Area
Playing fields

June 24-25-26 | 9:00 am - 19:00 pm
Exhibition Area

From Busker to BSKIN, from handball to volleyball to Country dancing, via flight simulators and driving to WMF, interactive areas await you to try traditional sports and immersive activities. In collaboration with Vero Volley, FIGH, EISI, FIPAV, and the GRD - genitori ragazzi down, In.Da.Co., Western Academy, and Aero Club pavullo associations, you can try your hand at real or virtual challenges, including movement, fun, and technology.

THE SPACE IN BETWEEN June 24-25-26Mall - Stand 09
THE SPACE IN BETWEEN
June 24-25-26
Mall - Stand 09

AELION presents THE SPACE IN BETWEEN, a Digital Art experience that comes to life through audience interaction. Via the AI Mirror, Digital Live Painting, AI Photo Art, and Holograms installations, visitors modify the artworks in real time, completing the technology with their presence.
The project is created in collaboration with Service2Service, IC Videopro, Asit, Radio Sata and Ferrari Computer.

VR ExperienceJune 24-25-26Exhibition Area
VR Experience

June 24-25-26
Exhibition Area

Enjoy an immersive VR experience thanks to 360° freedom of movement. The perfect fluidity between visual and physical stimuli guarantees maximum realism, preventing the effects of motion sickness.

MUSEUM OF INFORMATICJune 24-25-26MALL
MUSEUM OF INFORMATIC
June 24-25-26
MALL

From June 24 to 26, the Mall will host a temporary exhibition featuring the finest pieces from the Pennabilli Informatic Museum, celebrating its 35th anniversary. Throughout the exhibition, you will discover the incredible evolution of computing, from vacuum tubes and transistors to microprocessors, and from early computers to the advent of the PC.

Museo del Cielo e della TerraJune 24-25-26
Museo del Cielo e della Terra

June 24-25-26

Explore the Universe inside the traveling planetarium with full-dome projections, an immersive 360-degree video system that completely surrounds the viewer. Experience the unique thrill of touching a real lunar meteorite and discover legendary artifacts: a cometary fragment and the famous Libyan desert glass. Then, put on VR headsets to step aboard the International Space Station and return to Earth to admire up close the extraordinary camouflage of dead-leaf insects!

Kranos - Pokémon Showmatch June 25 | 14:00 - 18:00
Kranos - Pokémon Showmatch
June 25 | 14:00 - 18:00

On Thursday 25th (14:00 - 18:00 PM), Hall 21 will transform into the arena for the Pokémon VGC Showmatch - World Championship Series Preview, hosted by Kranos. Two professional players, both already qualified for the World Championships, will face off in an exclusive, no-holds-barred sneak peek. Expect a match of the highest technical level, whether you experience it live at the fair or follow the live stream. Get ready for the show: the road to Worlds starts here!

ICARUS - Launch of the world's largest paper airplaneJune 25th | 7:00 PMHALL 36
ICARUS - Launch of the world's largest paper airplane

June 25th | 7:00 PM
HALL 36

With the ICARUS project, students from the University of Pisa and Jakidale will attempt to set a new record for the world's largest paper airplane. To beat the current record held since 2013, the model—featuring a 20-meter wingspan—must fly for at least 15 meters after launching from a 3-meter-high platform. A unique opportunity to witness live a feat that combines engineering, experimentation and entertainment in front of an international audience.

Partner events

Outside the Festival

Discover what's happening outside BolognaFiere's spaces during WMF Week
Intruso in tourJune 25th | Secret Location

Intruso in tour

June 25th | Secret Location

The Italian Tech Alliance Alumni Venture Academy is bringing back its "Dinner with a Mystery Guest" to Bologna.
The surprise location will be announced via the Alumni chat group. Please reach out to the organizers for further details.

Réseau ER Annual EventJune 25th | 18:30Siepelunga Golf Club

Réseau ER Annual Event

June 25th | 18:30

Siepelunga Golf Club

An invitation-only event for Réseau ER Members and selected Guests. An evening dedicated to celebrating personal and entrepreneurial journeys, rediscovering the role of failure as a lever for growth and transformation.

MORE EVENTS
COMING SOON

Stay tuned to discover the new outiside Festival partner events.

JUNE 24 · 25 · 26, 2026
BOLOGNAFIERE
WMF - We Make Future

TICKET OFFERS FROM 14€+VAT

TICKETS FROM 14€ + VAT take the deal now!