Test your innovation in real-life conditions!

Discover our call for solutions: SpArk LAB
Participate!

How does a SpArk LAB work?

The SpArk LAB is a call for solutions that enables project leaders to experiment with their innovation in real-life conditions, and sports event organizations to become genuine innovation laboratories.

1. Discover the themes

Explore the themes defined by the Organizer and the Partner and find the one that matches your solution.

2. Submit your solution

Fill in the online application form before the deadline.

3. Wait for the experts' verdict

A panel of experts will evaluate and select the most promising solutions, based on criteria of innovation, feasibility and potential impact.

4. Test your solution in the field

Test your innovation in real-life conditions at the Sierre-Zinal Race.

5. Tailor-made support

Benefit from expert advice to develop and market your innovation

Edition 2024

This year, the legendary Sierre-Zinal race becomes an exclusive testing ground!
Participate!

Sierre-Zinal, also known as the Race of the Five 4000s, was born in the Valais Alps in 1974. Every year since then, it has offered participants a 31km, 2,200m climb and 1,100m descent in a truly exceptional landscape.

Take advantage of this unique platform to boost your innovation!

Privileged access to the event to organize user tests

Access to a large community of testers represented by race participants, enabling accelerated feedback.

Customized support with personalized coaching and targeted matchmaking

Access to a qualified network offering collaboration opportunities

Increased visibility by highlighting your solution on social networks and at the event

Who can participate?

The SpArk LAB is open to any individual, team, start-up, company, student, research institute, association or industrial group – from Switzerland or abroad – wishing to submit, challenge, test, validate and develop an innovative solution or concept.

Participation conditions

Submit a prototype solution that can be tested in real-life conditions (commercial solutions are not accepted),

Prove the relevance of the solution to the chosen theme,

Demonstrate business development potential.

Themes

Applications must present innovative solutions focusing on the following themes:

For participants

Intelligent, personalized nutrition and hydration

Innovative equipment and accessories to enhance the racing experience

Health and safety for effective preparation and recovery

Customized training for unique racing challenges and enhanced performance

For sporting events

Innovative format and event concept to enrich the racing experience

Intelligent logistics, mobility and security for smooth, secure management

Event sustainability to minimize environmental impact

Optimized, autonomous refueling management for efficient distribution

Promoting the event to increase its visibility and appeal

Participant experience to reward, retain and engage riders.

Volunteer experience in recruiting, coordinating and retaining volunteers

Spectator experience for improved access, engagement and an enriched experience

Sponsor activation and management to promote attraction and engagement

We also encourage applicants to propose innovation themes beyond those listed.

Your next steps

1

March 25

Call for solutions launched
2

June 14

Deadline for applications
3

June 18

Jury deliberation & selection of nominees
4

August 10 and September 21

Field testing
5

From September

Supporting nominees
2024

Interested?

Would you like to take part in the SpArk LAB  test your innovation in real-life conditions during the Sierre-Zinal race  ?

Thank you for your interest, but the deadline for applications for the 2024 edition has passed. Stay tuned for the next edition!
I would like to apply

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