From September 22 to 25, 2026, Messe Essen will once again host Security Essen, the leading trade fair for the security industry. This event is proving to be an essential stage for young and innovative companies to showcase cutting-edge technologies that shape the future of security.

Start-ups Take Center Stage

At Security Essen, start-ups play a crucial role in energizing the security sector with pioneering solutions. For instance, the previous edition featured groundbreaking innovations such as AI-powered perimeter surveillance systems and advanced multifunctional protective clothing. Building on this momentum, the 2026 event promises another exciting opportunity for emerging companies to present their work on an international platform.

Support from the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy

One of the highlights for start-ups is Security Essen’s inclusion once again in the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi) support program, dedicated to young, innovative companies participating in international leading trade fairs in Germany.

This program offers substantial financial aid, significantly reducing participation costs for recently founded businesses:

• Eligibility: Companies younger than 10 years, with fewer than 50 employees, and an annual turnover of no more than 10 million euros.
• Support for shared booth participation at the fair includes:
  • 60% funding for the first two participations,
  • 50% funding from the third participation onwards,
  • Maximum funding of €7,500 per exhibitor per trade fair.

Start-ups interested in participating can easily register with the Security Essen team and then submit their applications to the Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA), which administers the “Young Innovators” fair program.

Comprehensive All-Inclusive Service Package

The start-up exhibition area, “Young Innovators,” will be located in Hall 5 at Messe Essen. Exhibitors benefit from an inclusive package that covers:

• High-quality booth construction,
• Cleaning services,
• Security and supervision,
• Catering,
• Electricity connection and consumption,
• A meeting area with hostess service.

This comprehensive package ensures that start-ups can enjoy a professional and hassle-free trade fair experience — all at heavily discounted conditions designed to maximize visibility and networking opportunities.

Success Stories Inspire

Julia Jacob, Project Manager for Security Essen, underlines the program’s value:
“For young companies, this support offers the perfect chance to gain visibility, network globally, and present their innovations to an international expert audience.”

A shining example is Monty Hering from the start-up Eibenholz, who exhibited cutting-edge modular protective clothing at the 2024 edition. He reflects on their breakthrough experience:

“Security Essen 2024 was a real milestone for us. We not only forged new contacts but also deepened existing relationships with public authorities. The pre-event media interview boosted our visibility significantly. Today, we are the official partner of the Bavarian Police Union (GdP Bayern) and closely connected with the USK task force – all foundation stones laid at Security Essen. We are excited to return in 2026 with new products and a fresh concept.”

Join Security Essen 2026

For young security innovators looking to accelerate their business growth, Security Essen offers an unbeatable platform — supported by government funding, embedded in a professional environment, and connected to a thriving international community.

Find more information and register at:
www.security-essen.de