Real Corporate Challenges Meet New Ideas and the Right Teams
In September 2026, the SAPIE Open Challenge launches in Slovakia. The open innovation programme connects established companies with students, innovators and start-ups.
Do you have a real challenge from your business practice? Share it with us – we will connect your challenge with the right team to work together on developing a solution.
How does the SAPIE Open Challenge work?
A company submits a real challenge or a specific problem from its business practice. The challenge is then matched with a team of innovators who work intensively on it for 1–2 months.
The goal is to develop a concrete solution or demonstrate a practical approach towards a possible solution.
The Process
Summer 2026
We collect real challenges from companies.
Autumn 2026
The challenges are presented and matched with innovators.
Spring 2027
The teams are working on the solutions.
SAPIE Forum 2027
The results and solutions will be presented.
What does this mean for businesses?
The SAPIE Open Challenge offers companies the opportunity to view their challenges from a new perspective and to tap into external talent and new ideas.
The first challenge to be announced focuses on smart building design. Danucem is seeking new ideas on how buildings can use water and energy more efficiently—including through rainwater harvesting, thermal energy storage, and the use of sensors and AI to intelligently manage consumption.
No finished solution is required for the challenge: We are looking for a variety of technologies, approaches, and ideas—ranging from concepts or prototypes to simulations or digital twins.
Do you have a Corporate Challenge?
We can help connect your challenge with the right team.
👉 Learn more about the SAPIE Open Challenge: https://sapie.sk/events-blog/sapie-open-challenge
A Cross-Border Bridge for Open Innovation
This pilot project is part of the Twin City Future Innovation Manufacturing Hub initiative and is implemented by SAPIE – the Slovak Alliance for an Innovative Economy.
The aim of the activity is to strengthen cross-border cooperation between Austria and Slovakia and connect organisations from the private and public sectors with start-ups, students and innovative teams.
