Solaris Venture Partners: AWE 2026 Opportunity for SplitX Community Startups
Solaris Venture Partners has opened applications for a curated startup delegation to the Appliance & Electronics World Expo (AWE) 2026 in Shanghai – one of the world’s three leading global technology exhibitions, alongside CES and IFA.
Taking place in March 2026, AWE brings together leaders across consumer electronics, hardware, AI-driven products, and core technologies. As part of this initiative, 15 high-growth startups will be selected globally to participate in a structured program designed to accelerate international exposure and market access.
SplitX is sharing this opportunity with its community through its partnership with Solaris Venture Partners. Ryan Wang, General Partner at Solaris Venture Partners and a shareholder at SplitX, is directly involved in shaping and curating the delegation.
“AWE is one of the few global platforms where hardware founders can compress years of business development into a matter of days,” said Ryan Wang. “This program is designed to provide real access, to buyers, partners, and policymakers, rather than just exhibition space.”
What the program includes
According to Solaris Venture Partners, selected startups will receive a turnkey participation package, including:
- A fully furnished booth within the International Innovation Zone
- Visa assistance and VIP express service at Shanghai Pudong International Airport
- One night of five-star hotel accommodation and catered meals
- Curated introductions to global manufacturers, distributors, and Tier-1 investors
- Access to policymakers and industry decision-makers.
AWE 2026 is expected to host 1,000+ exhibitors and hundreds of thousands of attendees, positioning it as a key gateway into the world’s largest hardware and consumer electronics ecosystem.
Who should consider applying
The delegation is aimed at startups building in:
- Intelligent digital products and AI-driven hardware
- Smart living, robotics, and health-tech
- Innovative consumer electronics
- Core technologies, including semiconductors and green energy hardware.
Solaris Venture Partners has indicated that priority will be given to startups introduced through VC and community partners, including those coming via the SplitX ecosystem.
Timeline and application
Application deadline: February 6, 2026
Selection announcement: February 13, 2026
Expo dates: March 12–14, 2026, Shanghai
Startups may apply directly via the application form or be introduced to the Solaris team through existing partner channels.
