Digital buyer journeys
What digital buyer journeys means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Event overview
Overview
I'NOV PRO 2026 is a dedicated event for inventors and innovative project leaders, taking place on October 22, 2026, at Solarium de Gradignan, France. This fair aims to connect inventors with industry professionals through business meetings, competitions, and thematic conferences.
Organized by Transtech, the event emphasizes the importance of innovation in today's economy. I'NOV PRO 2026 takes place in Gradignan, France.
TL;DR
- 1Scale and Focus: This event is dedicated to innovation and invention, featuring business meetings and competitions.
- 2Organiser: Hosted by Transtech, a key player in supporting inventors and innovative projects.
- 3Buyer Authority: Targeted at inventors, SMEs, and public entities looking to foster innovation.
- 4Entry: Registration is required for participation in business meetings and competitions.
Why visit
This Transtech edition is a working showcase for early-stage hardware, software and design concepts rather than a catalogue of finished retail products.
Why exhibit
Exhibitors will showcase their innovative projects, gain visibility among key industry players, and participate in valuable networking opportunities. The event provides a platform for inventors to present their ideas and seek partnerships for development. Meet qualified buyers and partners including Inventors showcasing new inventions, SMEs presenting innovative products, Startups in the technology sector. Position your offer across innovative products and prototypes,.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Who this event is for
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
R&D and innovation managers at French and European SMEs screening prototypes for licensing or co-development
Technology scouts and corporate venture staff looking for early-stage hardware, software and connected-device projects
Industrial designers and product development teams comparing materials, mechanisms and manufacturing readiness
Manufacturing and engineering firms seeking small-batch production or prototyping partners
Investors and business angels focused on pre-series innovation with defendable intellectual property
Public innovation agencies, regional development bodies and university tech-transfer offices
Distributors and retail buyers evaluating consumer-facing inventions before mainstream launch
Startup founders and independent inventors researching competing solutions and partnership options
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Independent inventors and product designers presenting working prototypes
SMEs commercialising hardware, software or connected-device innovations
Startups seeking pilot customers, licensing partners or first industrial accounts
Design studios and engineering consultancies offering product development or prototyping services
Manufacturers and small-batch production specialists able to turn prototypes into series
University tech-transfer offices and public innovation agencies promoting licensable technology
Sustainable-material and circular-economy ventures with testable consumer or industrial applications
Early-stage consumer goods companies testing retail-ready concepts
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Working prototypes and demonstration units across hardware and software
Connected devices, embedded systems and IoT concepts
Industrial design and consumer product concepts
Sustainable materials and circular-economy innovations
Prototyping and small-batch manufacturing services
Technology licensing opportunities from labs and universities
Consumer goods innovations at pre-series stage
Design and engineering tools for product development
Location & Facilities
Venue
Solarium de Gradignan
Gradignan, France
Facilities
Parking
Solarium de Gradignan in Gradignan typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Food options
On-site catering
On-site diningParking: Solarium de Gradignan in Gradignan typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Gate: Follow organiser signage to the main visitor entrance at Solarium de Gradignan for badge collection; allow extra time for security screening during peak morning arrival.
Attend
Entry & tickets
Who runs the show
Organisers
Transtech
Intelligence
Market context
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Gradignan, France
Why it matters
Attending I'NOV PRO 2026 on 2026-10-22 to 2026-10-22 in Gradignan lets buyers and specifiers benchmark suppliers, see live demonstrations, and compress months of vendor meetings into one focused trade visit — worthwhile when your category roadmap aligns with the official exhibitor profile.
Industry trends
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Sustainability in procurement
What sustainability in procurement means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Automation and labour efficiency
What automation and labour efficiency means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Regional supply-chain resilience
What regional supply-chain resilience means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Hybrid engagement models
What hybrid engagement models means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Plan your trip
Travel & logistics
Local currency · EUR
Arrival airports
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport
Primary international gateway for Gradignan and the Bordeaux metropolitan area. Confirm live transfer times and terminal details before travel
TBA
to venue
Approx. 12-13 minutes by car to Solarium de Gradignan, subject to traffic
by car
Hotel tiers
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
Best Western Hotel Le Bordeaux Sud - Gradignan
3-star
Gradignan, near Chemin du SolariumGuest rating 4.5 from roughly 1,000 reviews on Google Hotels; eco-certified; breakfast (chargeable), free Wi-Fi, free parking, pool, air conditioning, bar, restaurant, room service.
ibis Bordeaux Pessac Route des Vins
3-star
Pessac, adjacent to GradignanBreakfast (chargeable), free Wi-Fi, free parking, air conditioning, pet-friendly, bar, restaurant, room service.
Logis Hotel Restaurant & Spa Au Comte d'Ornon
3-star
Gradignan / Ornon corridorGuest rating 4.1; breakfast, free Wi-Fi, free parking, hot tub, air conditioning, pet-friendly, spa, bar.
The Originals City - Hotel Bordeaux Porte du Bassin
3-star
Bordeaux south / bassin gatewayBreakfast (chargeable), free Wi-Fi, free parking, air conditioning, pet-friendly.
Local transport
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
Taxi / ride-hail
Estimated costApprox. EUR 25-35 one way (confirm meter or ride-hail quote)
Best forBordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD) to Solarium de Gradignan
Mapping estimates show 12-13 minutes over about 10-13 km depending on traffic. Approximate fare band; confirm live fares and any airport surcharge before travel.
Public transport
Estimated costApprox. EUR 2-3 per single journey (confirm local network fare)
Best forBordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD) to Solarium de Gradignan via Bordeaux bus and tram network
Mapping estimates show a transit option of roughly 26 minutes. Check current Bordeaux area bus and tram connections and ticket rules before travelling.
Parking
Estimated costApprox. EUR 5-10 per day (confirm venue rate)
Best forSolarium de Gradignan on-site or nearby parking
Parking availability is indicated for the venue area; daily rates and capacity are not confirmed in the available material. Allow extra time on show days.
Taxi / ride-hail
Estimated costApprox. EUR 10-15 short trip (confirm meter or ride-hail quote)
Best forGradignan/Pessac hotel cluster to Solarium de Gradignan
Use for hotels along the Gradignan/Pessac corridor when walking or local bus is not practical. Confirm live fares and pickup points with the hotel.
Weather
Late October in Gradignan, in the Bordeaux metropolitan area, is mid-autumn: expect mild days, cooler evenings and a realistic chance of rain showers. Layer clothing and carry a compact umbrella or waterproof jacket for the walk between parking, hotels and the Solarium de Gradignan halls.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
EU roaming may apply for EU SIMs; local prepaid SIM and eSIM options are widely available - confirm venue Wi‑Fi with the organiser.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Cultural notes
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Language
French is the working language in Gradignan and Bordeaux. Business exhibitors often speak English, but a few French phrases and a translation app help with taxi drivers, venue staff and local restaurants.
Business etiquette
A handshake and a clear introduction of your company and role are standard at French trade events. Use Monsieur or Madame until invited to use first names, and keep initial meetings focused on technical fit rather than hard selling.
Meals and scheduling
Lunch is often a set period rather than a quick break, and many local restaurants close between services. Book evening tables in Bordeaux or Gradignan ahead if you are hosting meetings during the show week.
Local transport
Validate bus or tram tickets before boarding where required and keep a contactless card or local app ready. Taxis and ride-hail are useful for the airport leg, but allow extra time during commuting hours.
Weather and dress
Late October is mid-autumn in the Bordeaux area: mild afternoons, cooler evenings and possible showers. Smart-casual business dress with a waterproof layer works for both the venue and city meetings.
Practical guides
Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Flights
Bordeaux Airport (BOD) is about 12 minutes by road from Solarium de Gradignan via the A630. Google Flights shows one-stop routings from London, Dubai, New York, Tokyo and Sydney, all connecting via European or Gulf hubs; fares fluctuate, so book early and allow a connecting buffer before the 22 October 2026 show day.
Transport
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Primary gateways: Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport: Approx. 12-13 minutes by car to Solarium de Gradignan, subject to traffic. Allow road or rail time to Solarium de Gradignan; on-site parking is usually available at major exhibition venues.
Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near Solarium de Gradignan: Gradignan, near Chemin du Solarium: Best Western Hotel Le Bordeaux Sud - Gradignan; Pessac, adjacent to Gradignan: ibis Bordeaux Pessac Route des Vins; Gradignan / Ornon corridor: Logis Hotel Restaurant & Spa Au Comte d'Ornon.
Ride-hail: Ride-hailing apps are commonly used in Gradignan; confirm local availability before travel.
Public transit: Google Maps returns an airport-to-venue transit option of roughly 26 minutes between Bordeaux Airport (BOD) and Solarium de Gradignan; confirm current bus or tram connections and ticket prices with the local network before travelling.
Parking: On-site parking is available at Solarium de Gradignan; confirm daily rates and hall access on the organiser or venue site.
Weather
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: October
Seasonality: Mid-autumn conditions with a realistic chance of rain showers during the show day; evenings are noticeably cooler than daytime.
Packing: Pack layers for mild days and cool evenings, plus a compact umbrella or waterproof jacket; comfortable shoes for shuttling between the venue, parking areas and nearby hotels.
Plan your trip
Planning
Best day to visit: Day 2 (mid-show)
Mid-show days at I'NOV PRO 2026 usually combine full exhibitor attendance with scheduled B2B meetings, before early pack-down on the final day.
T-1
Confirm the current edition dates, opening hours and visitor registration rules on the official Transtech schedule page.
T-2
Check whether Transtech is trade-only and prepare matching professional ID or an invitation letter if required.
T-3
Book a refundable hotel in Gradignan or Pessac and confirm the cancellation deadline.
T-4
Plan the BOD airport transfer: taxi or ride-hail is roughly 12-13 minutes; public transport is around 26 minutes per mapping estimates.
T-5
Download a local transit app or check Bordeaux area bus and tram timetables for the hotel-to-venue leg.
T-6
Shortlist exhibitors by product category and request meetings with the inventors or commercial teams you most want to meet.
T-7
Prepare a one-page company profile and a short list of problems you want exhibitors to solve.
T-8
Confirm whether Solarium de Gradignan charges for parking and note the daily rate before driving.
T-9
Check the late-October forecast and pack layers plus a compact umbrella or waterproof jacket.
T-10
Set a follow-up routine for the two days after the event so prototype leads do not go cold.
Sample visitor itinerary
Route-optimised day
Day 1 · morning
Registration and hall orientation at Solarium de Gradignan
Day 2 · core sessions
Supplier meetings and product demos
Day 3 · wrap-up
Final negotiations and follow-up
Networking spots
2I'NOV PRO 2026 registration concourse
Solarium de Gradignan
Central meeting point before and between hall appointments during show days.
Organiser B2B lounge (if offered)
Solarium de Gradignan
Hosted matchmaking and buyer programmes when published by the organiser.
Budget
Costs & budget
Build your working budget
Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
Estimated budget
Live estimate
- Hotel × 2 nights€190.00
- Per diem × 2€150.00
Estimated total€340.00
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Decision
Visit, exhibit, or skip?
Should you go?
Use this quick check to decide whether I'NOV PRO 2026 fits your visit, exhibit or skip plan.
QUESTION 1 OF 6
What is your primary role?
Decision matrix
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
Your category focus aligns with the official product themes.
Best for
Buyers, researchers, and delegates evaluating the programme and networking value.
Min. budget
$400.00
Timeline
4-8 weeks before opening day for registration and travel.
Risks
Limited session times published - confirm agenda before booking.
exhibit
You have a clear lead-generation or launch goal for this market.
Best for
Suppliers and brands seeking qualified meetings with the event audience.
Min. budget
$2,500.00
Timeline
3-6 months for stand booking, freight, and marketing prep.
Risks
Booth pricing not published in captured sources - confirm with organiser.
skip
Programme, audience, or commercial goals do not match your plan.
Best for
Teams whose category or region fit is weak this edition.
Timeline
N/A
Risks
No major risks listed.
FAQs & glossary
Answers
Frequently asked
What is Transtech?
Transtech is an innovation-focused trade event at Solarium de Gradignan, in the Bordeaux metropolitan area. It brings together inventors, SMEs, startups, design and manufacturing firms, investors and public innovation bodies to show prototypes and early-stage products.
When and where is the next edition?
The event is held at Solarium de Gradignan. Check the official Transtech schedule page for the confirmed dates, opening hours and any programme changes before booking travel.
Who should visit Transtech?
Visitors who benefit most include R&D and innovation managers, technology scouts, industrial designers, manufacturing engineers, investors, university tech-transfer staff and public innovation agencies. The common thread is an interest in testing, licensing or industrialising early-stage technology.
Is Transtech open to the public or trade-only?
The available listing does not confirm visitor registration rules. Check the organiser site before travelling; if the event is trade-only, bring matching professional ID and your registration confirmation.
How do I get to Solarium de Gradignan from Bordeaux Airport?
Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD) is the closest major gateway. A taxi or ride-hail to the venue is roughly 12-13 minutes over about 10-13 km depending on traffic; public transport options take around 26 minutes per mapping estimates. Confirm live routes and fares before travel.
Are there hotels near the venue?
Yes, Gradignan and neighbouring Pessac have several 3-star options, including Best Western Hotel Le Bordeaux Sud - Gradignan, ibis Bordeaux Pessac Route des Vins, Logis Hotel Restaurant & Spa Au Comte d'Ornon and The Originals City - Hotel Bordeaux Porte du Bassin. Published rates vary by season; book early and confirm cancellation terms.
What product sectors are represented?
Expect working prototypes and early-stage products across industrial design, connected devices and embedded software, sustainable materials, consumer goods, and manufacturing or prototyping services. The emphasis is on inventions that are ready for testing, licensing or industrial partnership rather than finished mass-market retail lines.
Can I exhibit my invention?
Exhibitor applications are handled by the organiser. Check the official Transtech site for exhibitor criteria, stand formats and deadlines; do not assume a stand is available without written confirmation.
What language is used at the event?
French is the local language. Many exhibitors and visitors work in English, but bilingual signage and a few French phrases will help with meetings and transport.
Is parking available at Solarium de Gradignan?
The venue area has parking, but daily rates and capacity are not confirmed in the available material. Check the venue or organiser page before driving and allow extra time on busy show days.
What is the weather like in late October?
Late October in Gradignan is mid-autumn: mild days, cooler evenings and a realistic chance of rain. Bring layers and a compact umbrella or waterproof jacket.
Glossary
- Prototype
- An early working version of a product or technology used to test function, usability or manufacturing feasibility before a final design is fixed.
- Proof of concept (PoC)
- A small-scale test that shows whether a technical idea can work in practice, often before a full prototype or commercial product exists.
- Minimum viable product (MVP)
- The simplest version of a product that can be released to a small group of users to validate demand and gather feedback for further development.
- Technology transfer
- The process of moving research results, know-how or intellectual property from a lab, university or inventor into commercial application, often through licensing or a spin-out company.
- Licensing
- A legal agreement in which the owner of intellectual property allows another organisation to use, manufacture or sell the technology in exchange for fees or royalties.
- Co-development
- A joint development arrangement in which two or more organisations share engineering, testing or commercial work to bring a product or technology to market.
- Early-stage venture
- A company or project that has moved beyond the idea stage but does not yet have stable mass-market sales, and is often seeking pilot customers or first institutional funding.
- Scale-up
- A company or production process moving from small-batch or pilot output to larger volumes, usually requiring new tooling, supply contracts and quality systems.
- Intellectual property (IP)
- Legally protected rights over inventions, designs, software, trademarks or know-how. At an innovation fair, IP status affects whether a technology can be licensed or jointly developed.
- Industrial design
- The discipline of shaping a product's form, ergonomics, materials and user interaction so that it can be manufactured and sold at scale.
- Pilot customer
- An early customer that agrees to test a new product or technology in a real operating environment, providing feedback and reference value before wider commercial launch.
- Small and medium-sized enterprise (SME)
- A company below the EU size thresholds for staff and turnover, often nimble enough to adopt new technology or act as a manufacturing or distribution partner for inventors.
- Incubator / accelerator
- A programme that supports early-stage teams with workspace, mentoring, funding access or market introductions over a fixed period.
- Go-to-market strategy
- The plan for how a new product will reach its first paying customers, covering pricing, distribution, sales channels and launch messaging.
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Also known as
Alternate names and search phrases for this event.
- innovation fair Gradignan
- Transtech events
- business meetings for inventors
- French invention showcase
- I'NOV PRO 2026 Gradignan
- NOV PRO Gradignan 2026
- NOV 2026
- NOV Gradignan 2026
- Gradignan France
- Innovation and Invention Fair Gradignan 2026
Digital business cards for the show floor
Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.