ISPO BrandNew, presented by YKK®, has officially opened applications for its 2026
startup programme, continuing its mission to identify, support and accelerate the
most promising emerging companies in the global sports, outdoor and active lifestyle
sectors.
Over the past two decades, ISPO BrandNew has helped identify and showcase
some of the most influential innovation stories in the sports and outdoor industry.
Former participants and winners include brands such as ON, GoPro, BOA and
Maloja, demonstrating the programme’s long-standing reputation as a launchpad for
emerging innovation and future market leaders.
ISPO BrandNew, presented by YKK® provides young businesses with a unique
opportunity to gain international visibility, connect with investors and industry leaders,
and showcase innovation on a global stage. The 2026 edition builds on this legacy
with enhanced startup evaluation, founder support and investor-readiness initiatives
delivered in collaboration with BORN Accelerators.
Returning as headline sponsor, YKK® continues its commitment to fostering
innovation across the sports and outdoor industry. As a global leader in fastening
solutions and a long-standing partner to leading apparel and equipment brands,
YKK® plays a key role in supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs at a critical
stage of their growth journey.
“At YKK®, we believe innovation thrives when emerging businesses are given the
opportunity to grow and be recognised. ISPO BrandNew, presented by YKK®
provides an important platform for startups to showcase new ideas, build valuable
connections and accelerate their journey. We are proud to continue supporting the
next generation of innovators in the sports and outdoor industry.” – Lynn
Whittingham, Senior Marketing Executive, YKK Europe Limited.
The 2026 programme places a stronger emphasis on helping startups transform
visibility into meaningful commercial opportunities through targeted support, expert
guidance and direct access to industry decision-makers.
Together, ISPO, YKK® and BORN Accelerators create a platform that combines
visibility, industry access, expert feedback, investor exposure and growth support.
The result is a stronger ecosystem that helps founders build meaningful connections
and unlock new opportunities beyond the event itself.
Why Join the BrandNew Village presented by YKK®
Designed specifically for innovative sports, outdoor and active lifestyle businesses,
the BrandNew Village provides startups with a powerful launch platform for growth
and international exposure.
Participants receive a comprehensive support package that includes exhibition
space within the BrandNew Village, investor-readiness support, marketing exposure
across ISPO’s digital channels and the opportunity to compete in the prestigious
ISPO BrandNew Awards.
The programme also offers direct access to investors, retailers, media and influential
decision-makers from across the global sports ecosystem, helping startups build
valuable relationships that can accelerate commercial growth.
To be eligible, companies must have been founded within the last five years, employ
fewer than 50 people and generate annual turnover of less than €500,000.
ISPO BrandNew Awards 2026 presented by YKK®
Applications for the ISPO BrandNew Awards open on 5 June 2026 and are available
exclusively to startups exhibiting within the BrandNew Village.
Startups will compete across four categories:
- Performance, Health & Equipment
- Retail, Digital & Software Innovation
- Sustainability & Materials
- Outdoor & Adventure
Selection Process
Entries will be evaluated by a panel of six industry experts through a rigorous three-
stage judging process.
Following an initial review, three startups from each category will be shortlisted to
pitch live on the BrandNew Launchpad during the opening day of ISPO. Category
winners will then progress to a final pitch on day two, where they will compete for the
title of overall ISPO BrandNew Winner 2026.
Category winners will be announced during the ISPO After Party on the evening of
4 th November and will receive a complimentary pod within the BrandNew Village at
ISPO 2027 and will be rolled into an investment programme. The overall winner will
be awarded a complimentary full exhibitor stand at ISPO 2027.
Applications for the ISPO BrandNew Awards open on 5 June and close on 2 August
2026.
For ambitious founders, ISPO BrandNew 2026 is more than a competition. It is an
opportunity to gain visibility, accelerate growth and become part of the next
generation of success stories shaping the future of sport, outdoor and active lifestyle
industries.
For more information, visit ISPO.com/awards.
About ISPO
ISPO is the leading international platform for the global sports business, connecting
brands, retailers, distributors, investors, startups and industry experts to drive
innovation, knowledge exchange and commercial growth. Through its events,
content and networking opportunities, ISPO supports the development of the sports
and outdoor industry worldwide.
About YKK
YKK® is a global leader in fastening solutions, renowned for its commitment to
quality, innovation and sustainability. With operations in more than 70 countries and
regions worldwide, YKK® provides, fastening products and architectural solutions
that support a wide range of industries. As a long-standing partner to the sports,
outdoor and apparel sectors, YKK® works closely with brands to develop high-
performance products that enhance functionality, durability and design. Through
continuous innovation and collaboration, YKK® helps shape the future of the
industries it serves.
About BORN Accelerators
BORN Accelerators supports startups and growth-stage businesses through
structured evaluation, founder development, investor-readiness preparation and
strategic industry connections, helping companies transform potential into
sustainable growth.
