⚠ Summarised by AI based on an external source. Last updated: 23 Mar 2026. Starthubs is not liable for any inaccuracies. Always consult the official challenge information.
Fraport AG — operator of Frankfurt Airport and more than 30 airports worldwide — is calling on startups and technology companies to pitch their most innovative solutions to its Digital Factory. The Open Pitch Day is Fraport's open innovation programme running twice a year: selected solutions are not just evaluated, but implemented as a minimum viable product at a real Fraport airport within three months. Applications are open year-round, with the next deadline on July 1, 2026.
What is Fraport looking for?
Applications are accepted across three challenges. The Growth and Sustainability challenge seeks solutions that promote passenger growth, increase airport profitability, improve capacity utilisation, advance decarbonisation and contribute to climate-neutral mobility — including reductions in Scope 1 and 2 emissions. The Efficiency and Innovation challenge is looking for technologies that streamline airport operations, revolutionise the customer journey (check-in, security, boarding), improve food, beverage and retail offerings, and use AI to improve apron processes and operational excellence. The Employer of Choice challenge focuses on solutions that strengthen Fraport as an employer — from smarter recruitment and talent management to AI-driven automation of HR and administrative processes. Solutions at any maturity level are welcome: from finished products to technologies still in proof-of-concept phase or even ideas to be co-developed with Fraport. More details are available on the official Fraport Open Pitch Day website.
Who is this for?
Startups and scale-ups of all sizes and from all countries with innovative technology relevant to airport operations, passenger experience, sustainability or workforce management. There is no restriction on company size or stage. Previous customers or references are a plus but not required.
What's in it for you?
- Selected applicants are invited for a 10-minute pitch followed by a Q&A session with Fraport's Digital Factory
- Finalists participate in the actual Open Pitch Day event and present to Fraport's innovation leadership
- Winning solutions are implemented as an MVP at a Fraport Group airport within 3 months — a direct route to real-world deployment and commercial validation
- Access to Fraport's global network of 30+ airports across Europe, North and South America, and Asia
- Co-development support from Fraport's Digital Factory — the centre for digital transformation at one of the world's largest airport operators