“The Smart Industry Challenge” is a technological immersion program for startups and/or technology-based companies in Germany that have developed an innovative and digital solution in the field of industry and/or mining, and that additionally contributes to the energy transition, the mitigation of climate change impacts, or sustainability. The program is led by the State of Bavaria Office for South America and Hub de Innovación Minera del Perú. This initiative seeks to identify and invite German companies to one of the most dynamic and promising industry ecosystems in Latin America.
What are the benefits for the selected company?
- Return ticket from Germany to Lima, Peru
- Accommodation for 5 nights, for 1 person.
- Access to a contact network to foster business opportunities in Peru.
- Access to potential partners and clients in Peru.
- Access to mentoring sessions and workshops.
- Access to Expomina trade fair
Who can apply?
Startups and SMEs based in Germany.
- Their core business model is based on real estate development.
- With validated, market-ready technology and scalability potential (e.g. at least a Series A investment or equivalent resources).
- English proficiency.
- Companies will be automatically excluded if their impact is generated exclusively through customized consulting services or if their core business model is based on real estate development.
- Other requirements are detailed in section 2 of the guidelines.
Fields of digital solutions (non-exhaustive)
- Operational intelligence (like AI and others)
- Decision making tools (predictive and prescriptive analytics)
- Production improvement and optimization
- Cost efficiency
- Resource efficiency (energy or water)
- Safety
- CO2 reduction
- Circular economy and sustainability
- Exploration efficiency and resource discovery
- Others
Schedule
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Beginning of the application phase | March 25, 2026 |
| Closing date for applications | April 27, 2026 |
| Personal interview session | April 28 to June 19, 2026 |
| Communication and pre-selection | June 22, 2026 |
| Demo Day and announcement of winner | July 2, 2026 |
| Acceleration program in Lima, Peru | September 7 to 11, 2026 |
(*) All dates will maybe be subject to modification.
Inquiries
Any inquiry regarding this call can be made by e-mail addressed to [email protected]