MWC Open Innovation Challenge 2026 is an international B2B matchmaking and open innovation initiative connecting corporates (challenge owners), startups, technology providers, and investors to co-create solutions for real business challenges. The programme is organised by ACCIÓ (Catalan Government – Ministry of Enterprise and Labour) in collaboration with the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN).

What participants get:
Participants can engage directly with corporate challenge owners through pre-arranged 1:1 B2B meetings focused on concrete innovation needs and potential pilots/partnerships.

Key highlight: Remote registration & online meetings with challenge owners
A major advantage is the option to register remotely via the online form and participate through online matchmaking meetings, even if you cannot travel to Barcelona.

Online participation enables you to:
• Register remotely and create your matchmaking profile
• Select relevant corporate challenges
• Schedule 1:1 online meetings with challenge owners
• Pitch your solution and explore collaboration opportunities without being onsite

Scouting focus: Nordics & Baltics (Open Innovation Challenges)
This call includes active scouting in the Nordics & Baltics for solutions aligned with open innovation needs from the following challenge owners:
• Desigual
• Fractus
• RACC
• Eria
• Worldline
This scouting is directly linked to the MWC / 4YFN Open Innovation Challenges and aims to connect regional innovators with real corporate demand.

Direct contact option
If you already have a solution that matches the needs of any of the challenge owners listed above, you are welcome to reach out directly via email so I can help assess fit and guide you towards the most relevant meetings and matchmaking route.

Dates & format
• March 2–5, 2026: Physical meetings only (onsite) at the 4YFN venue in Barcelona
• March 9–13, 2026: Online meetings on separate dedicated matchmaking days (remote participation available)

Location
Barcelona (4YFN / MWC week) + Online matchmaking (remote). 

REGISTER HERE.

Deadline for Applications: 2026-02-27