CrossConnect

About

A Catania-based four-month acceleration and proof-of-concept program supports Italian or Italy-based infratech startups with €150,000 in investment and acceleration services, plus conditional follow-on funding for top performers.

Benefits

• 💰€150,000 investment
  Selected startups receive €150,000 in investment and acceleration services as part of the program.
• 🚀4-month acceleration and POC program
  Participants take part in a four-month acceleration and proof-of-concept program in the infrastructure sector.
• 🧑‍🏫Weekly workshops
  The program includes practical workshops on product development, growth, IP protection, POC development and impact evaluation.
• 🌐International network
  Participants can connect with Plug and Play and ELIS networks, international and national VCs, angel investors, entrepreneurs and industry experts.
• 🤝Corporate partnership opportunities
  Startups have the chance to meet corporate partners and receive support in developing potential proofs of concept.
• 🏢Catania office space
  Participants have access to a new office in Catania with 24/7 access and on-demand access to other Plug and Play offices in Italy and worldwide.
• 📈Follow-on investment
  The best-performing startups may receive follow-on investment; the official CrossConnect site states up to €800,000, while Eni's October 2026 report on the third cohort states up to €400,000.

Eligibility Criteria

• Mandatory: startup incorporated in Italy or willing to open a legal entity in Italy
• Mandatory: breakthrough project in the infratech industry
• Preferred: founders with a strong desire to grow and improve
• Preferred: can-do attitude and ability to execute ideas
• Preferred: motivated and solid team with relevant education and experience
• Preferred: revolutionary technologies, products or services

Target Sector

Energy & Utilities, Real Estate & Construction, Transportation & Logistics

Target Location

Italy; startups must be incorporated in Italy or willing to open a legal entity in Italy. Italian and international startups are eligible if they intend to open a legal entity in Italy.