The international microtechnology and high-precision trade fair brought together more than 750 companies and brands in Besançon, highlighting aerospace and defence applications, industrial innovation and international partnerships.
Micronora 2026 welcomed 17,500 professionals to Besançon (France), from 29 September to 2 October. Featuring more than 750 companies and brands across 25,000 m2
of exhibition space, the event brought together expertise spanning research, technology development and finished products.
International participants accounted for 31% of the companies and brands represented, alongside 39% from elsewhere in France and 30% from the region. Against an uncertain economic and geopolitical backdrop, the exhibition provided opportunities to exchange technical knowledge, establish business contacts and explore industrial partnerships.
The 2026 edition placed particular emphasis on the role of microtechnologies in the aeronautics, space and defence industries. Its dedicated ZOOM exhibition area tripled in size and welcomed more than 50 participants, showcasing solutions addressing demanding requirements for precision, reliability, miniaturisation and performance.
Organised in partnership with the PMT ASD cluster, with support from the French Aerospace Industries Association, the Directorate General for Civil Aviation and the French defence procurement agency DGA, the initiative brought together companies and laboratories to present practical innovations. Discussions also explored how miniaturisation can help reduce aircraft weight and support lower fuel consumption and emissions.
The Micronora Awards, formerly known as the Microns d’Or, recognised innovations across several categories:
- Machines and capital goods:
Horn received a Micron d’Argent for its Supermini System with two sintered geometries.
- Microtechnology components and subassemblies: Demgy received a Micron d’Or for CAPDCM, a metastasis-blocking implant, while SensiTips received a Micron d’Argent for its ultra-sensitive sensors.
- Intelligent systems and software: Tornos received a Micron d’Or for its Kepler Loop waste reduction system.
- Special prize:
E2SP was recognised for its EMASP (Electric Multi-Axis Stamping Process) solution for small and medium production runs.
Alongside the exhibition, the Arena discussions and technical conferences addressed industrial challenges and practical technology applications. The Micro & Nano Event complemented the programme with international B2B meetings, seminars and pitch sessions designed to connect potential partners.
Skills development was another focus. Through demonstrations, workshops and meetings with professionals, the Talent Factory introduced younger visitors to microtechnologies and related career opportunities. An accompanying work-shadowing initiative had already secured 31 placements for secondary school pupils.
Micronora also announced a new stage in its international development with Micronora Americas, scheduled for 14-16 September 2027 in Montreal (Canada). The inaugural event aims to connect European and pan-American microtechnology industries, supporting technical exchanges, industrial partnerships and access to new markets.