From January 13 to 15, 2026, Messe Essen will host the largest edition ever of InfraTech Germany. The trade fair is growing not only in size but also in relevance to the sector. With more than 12,000 m² of exhibition space, over 250 exhibitors, and an extensive knowledge program, InfraTech is rapidly developing into the meeting platform for everyone working on the infrastructure of the future.
The InfraTech Innovation Award will once again be presented during the trade fair. No fewer than 35 innovations were submitted for this edition, ranging from product applications to process innovations and digital solutions. The jury ultimately selected three nominations that they believe have the greatest practical potential:
BIRCO GmbH | Rainmesh Water Management
RAINMESH is a smart, digital system that automatically stores or uses rainwater based on soil data and weather forecasts. This ensures efficient water use, limits flooding, and prevents drought problems. Ideal for climate-proof cities, green spaces, and more efficient water management.

RPBL GmbH & Co. OHG | BALASTAN® Climbing Building Material
BALASTAN® combines high load-bearing capacity with exceptional water permeability, without chemical additives and with a very low carbon footprint. Suitable for climate-adaptive applications such as water-permeable paths, squares, and parking lots. The material contributes to cooling, reduced runoff, and a resilient urban environment.

EDGITAL GmbH | AI platform for digital road management
EDGITAL uses artificial intelligence and image analysis to digitize the entire road management process. Damage is automatically detected, measures are prioritized, and budgets are optimized. This enables municipalities to plan and carry out maintenance faster, more cost-effectively, and with better justification.

The award ceremony will take place on Wednesday, January 14, in Auditorium 2.
Each trading day has its own focus:
The knowledge program consists of lectures, panel discussions, practical case studies, and masterclasses—all held directly on the exhibition floor. Visitors are welcome to attend the sessions at their convenience.
Visit InfraTech Germany 2026 – free admission
InfraTech 2026
January 13–15, 2026 | Messe Essen
Visits are free with registration:
www.infratech.de
More information about the program, exhibitors, masterclasses, and innovations: www.infratech.de
One component of the program is the masterclass by Christian Haak & Prof. Martin Ferger, focused on future-oriented construction and
strategic transformation within companies.
Topics covered:
The masterclass will be offered twice on Wednesday, January 14, so professionals can choose the time slot that suits them best.

5 reasons to visit InfraTech
1. Opportunities greater than ever
Germany is investing billions in replacing, renovating, and making its infrastructure more sustainable. This offers enormous opportunities for companies in civil engineering, energy, water, mobility, and digitization.
2. Largest edition to date
The exhibition space has already been expanded four times for this edition and features more than 250 exhibitors spread across three central themes.
3. Strong and practice-oriented program
Theaters, panels, demos, practical cases, and the presentation of the Innovation Award. Much of this will be presented live on the exhibition floor.
4. The only trade fair that brings together the entire chain
From client to software supplier and from contractor to policymaker.
5. Close to the Netherlands
Less than two hours from Arnhem – easy to visit as a day trip or for several days.
Why is 2026 the ideal time to enter the German market? And where are the greatest opportunities? In this podcast episode, Annemieke den Otter and Angela Nolten discuss strategy, market developments, and specific examples. Highly recommended before you head to Essen.