This years‘ EMO will once again feature a large Startup Area on Stand E34 in Hall 9, presented jointly by the organizer VDW (German Machine Tool Builders' Association) and the VDMA Startup Machine. "Startups bring a breath of fresh air to well-established industrial sectors because they often function as pioneers and trendsetters in their field of business," says Stephanie Simon, who is responsible for the project at the VDW. That's why established exhibitors are often more than interested in talking to young companies, she points out. "The EMO Startup Area currently features nearly 60 companies that are looking to break into the production technology market and appeal to its users," adds Juliane Salten of the VDMA. Their primarily aim is to raise their profile and set up networks with customers and investors.