The Global Start Up Program 2026 is now underway
The ICE Agency supports 60 Italian startups in the world’s leading innovation hubs
ICE, the agency that supports the internationalization of Italian small and medium-sized enterprises, and of which the Intesa Sanpaolo Group is a partner, launches the 2026 edition of the Global Start Up Program, the program dedicated to the internationalization of highly innovative Italian startups, which will offer 60 selected startups the opportunity to access some of the world’s most dynamic innovation ecosystems.
In addition to ICE, the program is also promoted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and is carried out thanks to the operational partnership of international accelerators, selected by ICE, which oversee the startup training. The Global Start Up Program represents a concrete growth opportunity for startups with high technological potential and ambitions to expand into international markets.
A free pathway to grow abroad
The Global Start Up Program 2026 offers a completely free pathway for the selected startups, which will have the opportunity to spend one month abroad, between September and November 2026, at internationally renowned accelerators.
During the stay, the startups will take part in:
• training and mentoring sessions,
• meetings with investors,
• networking activities,
• discussions with global corporations,
• pitching sessions,
• visits to the main players in the local innovation ecosystem.
All training, travel, and accommodation costs will be fully covered by ICE. In particular, for one representative per company, ICE will cover: round-trip economy class airfare, accommodation for the entire duration of the program, and accident insurance.
The destinations of the Global Start Up Program 2026
The 2026 edition of GSUP will take place in six of the world’s leading innovation hubs, each specializing in specific technological sectors:
• Zurich (Switzerland) – digital health and life sciences
• Paris (France) – green tech, cleantech, sustainability, deep tech, and Industry 5.0
• Munich (Germany) – artificial intelligence
• San Diego (United States) – biotech and pharma
• Singapore – fintech
• Bangalore (India) – advanced manufacturing
The addition of Zurich among the program destinations further expands the international network of the Global Start Up Program, strengthening ICE’s presence in high-tech sectors with strong growth potential.
Final event and awards for the best startups
The best startups from each program will be awarded during a closing event to be held at the end of November 2026 at the ICE Office headquarters in Milan.
The winning startup will also have the opportunity to be hosted free of charge by ICE at the 2027 edition of Viva Technology, one of Europe’s leading events dedicated to innovation and technology.
The finalist startups will also be able to access additional networking and promotional initiatives during 2027, both in Italy and abroad.
Applications are open until May 31
