WMF - We Make Future the world’s largest B2B exhibition for AI, Tech, and Digital Innovation will be a key player from January 6 to 9 at CES Las Vegas 2026, the world’s most influential tech event, serving as a global B2B platform connecting startups, corporations, investors, and institutions.

Located within the Italy Pavilion (organized by the Italian Trade Agency (ITA) and Area Science Park), WMF showcases Italian innovation on a global stage. This presence reinforces its role as an open innovation hub and an accelerator for strategic partnerships across the innovation ecosystems of Europe, the United States, and the Middle East.

WMF’s participation at CES is part of a long-term vision: building a global B2B platform where technological innovation translates into concrete opportunities for development, investment, and international cooperation.

At CES, WMF operates as a platform for the business of the future a physical and relational space where startups, companies, and innovation stakeholders can: Meet and share insights; Showcase advanced technological solutions; Launch commercial and industrial collaborations; Initiate growth paths within major international markets

This approach extends beyond a single event, finding continuity through WMF’s international initiatives in Italy, the United States, and the Middle East.

ON THE AGENDA

January 7th, 2026 · 11:30 AM

WMF - We Make Future Presentation

Venetian Expo - Hall G · 61001
CES will host an official presentation of WMF - We Make Future, the leading international trade fair on AI and innovation scheduled to take place in Bologna (Italy) from June 24th to 26th, 2026.
This session is dedicated to:
  • Showcasing WMF as a global B2B platform for AI, digital, and technology;
  • Introducing the first exhibitors and sponsors, highlighting WMF's role in connecting international innovation ecosystems;
  • Sharing the vision, themes, and opportunities of the 2026 edition for startups, companies, and investors.
  • Presentation of the Innovation Ecosystem with Clust-ER
January 9th, 2026 · 12:00 AM

Official Presentation of Saudi Makes Future

Venetian Expo - Hall G · 61001
CES 2026 will also host the first official presentation of Saudi Makes Future, the new international event promoted by WMF, scheduled to take place in Riyadh from December 14th to 16th, 2026.
Saudi Makes Future is designed as a B2B platform connecting Europe and the MENA region, with the goal of:
  • Fostering industrial and technological collaborations;
  • Creating business and investment opportunities;
  • Highlighting startups and companies in the AI, Tech & Digital sectors within one of the world's most strategic markets.
January 9th, 2026 · 12:00 AM

AI For Future Startup Awards

Venetian Expo - Hall G · 61001
A cornerstone of WMF’s presence at CES will be the Startup Awards, featuring the selection of the most innovative companies at the event. Two winning startups will be identified for each category, gaining access to a structured path of visibility, networking, and business development within the WMF ecosystem.
The awards presented by WMF at CES are more than just a recognition; they represent entry into a global B2B platform designed to support startups through a concrete journey of growth and positioning in international markets.

Startup Awards value:

over €20,000

The awards presented by WMF at CES are more than just a recognition; they represent entry into a global B2B platform designed to support startups through a concrete journey of growth and positioning in international markets.

Selected startups will gain access to:

  • Participation in WMF - We Make Future 2026 (Bologna, Italy) Including an exhibition desk and access to B2B meetings with international companies, investors, and stakeholders.

  • Participation in Saudi Makes Future 2026 (Riyadh) Including an exhibition desk and access to B2B meetings to explore growth opportunities within the MENA market.

  • Participation in AI Festival 2026 (Milan, Italy) Including an exhibition desk to connect with the international AI ecosystem.

  • Access to the “AI For Future” Competition The opportunity to compete in the "AI For Future" startup competition during the WMF event in Silicon Valley (San Francisco, CA, March 2026), connecting directly with the U.S. innovation ecosystem.

A journey designed to transform visibility into business relationships, strategic partnerships, and market opportunities.

The Italy Pavilion at CES 2026

CES 2026 will host 51 Italian startups within the Italy Pavilion, located in Eureka Park—the premier area dedicated to startups and emerging innovation.

The featured solutions cover key strategic sectors, categorized into 7 areas:

  • Energy & Smart Mobility

  • Future of Work (EdTech, Legal, Cybersecurity)

  • Health & Life Science

  • Lifestyle, Sports & Entertainment

  • Marketing & Media

  • Smart Land/Smart City

  • Smart Manufacturing

In this context, WMF acts as an ecosystem partner and leading B2B platform, bridging the gap between innovation demand and supply, and accelerating the dialogue between startups, corporations, and international investors

Supported By:
WMF: A Global Platform for Business and Innovation

Participation in CES Las Vegas marks a key milestone in WMF’s international roadmap. In 2026, this journey spans Bologna, Silicon Valley, and Riyadh, with the mission of building a global ecosystem where innovation serves as a driver for economic growth and sustainable development.

Through events, competitions, B2B meetings, and open innovation programs, WMF continu

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on WMF 2026