ARENA2036 at the HANNOVER MESSE 2026

How can collaboration accelerate innovation? ARENA2036 provided concrete answers to this question at HANNOVER MESSE 2026—through hands-on projects and insights into the Research Campus concept. At the joint booth, the thematic breadth of the Research Campus was on full display, and the innovative power of the projects was palpable.

Diversity on display – the shared booth as a reflection of the shop floor

Three projects and one member company used the booth to showcase their latest developments: the Industrial Metaverse real-world lab, ARENA2036-X, the Wire Harness transformation hub, and member company Waveye. The breadth of topics highlighted just how diverse the research landscape is at the research campus—and how effective the collaborative approach is in practice.

The booth design also reflected this concept: each project was given its own space, yet all were united under one roof. The semi-open design sparked curiosity and invited visitors to step inside. Inside, the atmosphere was reminiscent of the ARENA2036 shop floor: visitors were surrounded by the technologies and innovations of the day after tomorrow, with a view to the industrial future.

The ARENA2036 booth drew a large crowd and was the site of lively discussions.

A strong network—even beyond our own booth

In addition to the projects on display, the strength of the ARENA2036 ecosystem was also evident at the trade show. Numerous partner companies were also in attendance. This led not only to new connections but also to many encounters with familiar faces.

The presence across various industries and fields made it clear that the ecosystem is broad in scope and firmly rooted in the industry.

Prof. Dr. Peter Middendorf, President of the University of Stuttgart and Chairman of the Board of ARENA2036 e.V., visiting the ARENA2036 booth.

Research with Impact: CARpulse at the BMFTR

A particular highlight was the presentation by the CARpulse collaborative project at the booth of the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology, and Space (BMFTR). Current project results were presented there—including in discussions with Federal Minister Dorothee Bär. The visibility on this stage underscores the relevance of ARENA2036’s research work far beyond the local community.

Project leaders from the CARpulse collaborative project present the project's demonstrator to Federal Minister Dorothee Bär.

Conclusion: Exchange as the Key to Innovation

Five intense days at the trade show demonstrated just how valuable interdisciplinary exchange is. Discussions with partners, interested parties, and new contacts made it clear: progress happens where collaboration is put into practice. This is precisely the approach of ARENA2036: strategic and focused on long-term competitiveness.

ARENA2036 would like to thank all visitors for the open dialogue and the many ideas shared. We look forward to building on many of the connections made—for example, at upcoming events on the research campus and, in particular, at our annual highlight, Ü:MO 2026, on June 18 at ARENA2036.