TIM Open Innovation - The Open Innovation Program of TIM Group

Context

Infrastructure is essential for the development of the country. Water networks, bridges, public buildings,

energy plants, and urban systems play a key role today in ensuring safety, sustainability, and the

digital transformation of Italy. This is why it is important to monitor their status precisely and continuously,

using real-time digital tools, and to intervene preventively to keep them efficient and safe.

Today, thanks to PNRR funds and advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and Digital Twins, it is

possible to build more robust, intelligent, and connected infrastructures.

In this context, the “TIM Smart Infrastructure Challenge” was born, promoted by TIM together with its partners : Arduino, Cyber 4.0, eFM, EIT Digital, Intesa Sanpaolo Innovation Center, 5G & Digital Connected Industry and Internet of Things Observatories of the Milan Polytechnic, SOCOTEC Italia and with the support of Alaian.

The goal is to combine the best skills on the market to accelerate the transition towards smart infrastructures,
in line with the UN 2030 Goals, in particular Goal 9: build resilient infrastructure,
promote innovation, and foster sustainable and responsible industrial development.

Why now and why TIM?

Italian infrastructure urgently needs a quality leap. Much of it is aging, the territory is fragile, and the market is highly fragmented — rapid and effective action is essential.

TIM has the expertise and technologies to make a real impact: advanced connectivity, IoT platforms,

cloud services, cybersecurity, a global network of partners, and extensive experience in managing complex projects

for large enterprises and public administrations.

By integrating vertical and highly specialized expertise, TIM strengthens its role in the

digitalization of infrastructure — combining innovation, know-how, and operational efficiency.

To discover TIM's solutions in this area click here

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for innovative startups, scaleups, and SMEs — both Italian and international — that offer technological solutions in the following areas:

Intelligent Infrastructure Monitoring
Advanced Energy Management of Buildings

You can find all the use cases in the Regulation, in Art.3.

We are particularly interested in solutions that integrate advanced digital technologies — such as AI, Machine Learning, Digital Twin, IoT sensors, Edge Computing, AR/VR, drones, GIS, and BIM — designed for sectors such as critical infrastructure and Building Energy Management, with particular attention to cyber security. We are looking for companies with a clear vision, solid skills and solutions ready to be applied in real projects. We want to work with those who are able to tackle complex challenges with a practical approach and innovative.

How to Participate?

Create your account

Create a company profile

Apply to the Challenge with the created company profile

1. Create your account
Register using your email and password. You will receive a confirmation once your account has been created, and you can begin filling out your profile.

2. Complete your TIM Growth profile
This is the first step of the application process and is required to submit your candidacy. Your TIM Growth profile also grants you access to the TIM Open Innovation ecosystem and allows you to take part in future initiatives.

3. Submit your application to the Challenge
Finalize your application by entering the required information and submitting your candidacy for the TIM Smart Infrastructure Challenge.

Support & Information

For any support during the application phase, please contact timopeninnovation@telecomitalia.it inserting “TIM Smart Infrastructure Challenge” as the subject."

What are the opportunities for participants?

Participating in the TIM Smart Infrastructure Challenge offers real opportunities for growth, visibility, and industrial collaboration. Selected companies will benefit from facilitated access to the innovation networks of TIM and its Partners. In addition, each Partner will offer a specific prize, as outlined below:

TIM Award

Industrial collaboration aimed at integrating the selected solution into the Smart Infrastructure Enterprise offering portfolio.

Partner Rewards
Arduino Award
The Arduino PLC Starter Kit — a complete platform to explore the world of industrial automation with the flexibility of the Arduino ecosystem. Ideal for developing innovative solutions in the Industry 4.0 space.
Cyber 4.0 Award
Free participation for a maximum of 3 places in an information/training event on 5 cybersecurity topics relevant to the reference sector, organized by the Cyber 4.0 in the next 12 months.
eFM Award
Three months of free access to the Hubquarter network spaces (eFM Statuto11 in Milan, Talent Garden Ostiense in Rome, and other locations via the MySpot app), including a dedicated presentation session to the eFM business community.
EIT Digital Award
A pitching session with EIT Digital Growth Services Managers to assess the company’s readiness to raise international funding and expand beyond its home market, with the possibility of accessing tailored financial support or a place on the Speed Master course.
Intesa Sanpaolo Innovation Center Award
Opportunity to participate, within 12 months, in one of the initiatives organized or promoted by Intesa Sanpaolo Innovation Center S.p.A.
Politecnico di Milano - 5G & Digital Connected Industry and IoT Observatories
Access to selected research reports from the Observatories, to be agreed upon with the designated contact person.
SOCOTEC Italy Award
Opportunities for collaboration based on SOCOTEC’s needs, both in Italy and abroad.