Creative Destruction Lab has launched CDL-Milan, expanding its global network of innovation into one of Europe’s most dynamic cities. Developed in collaboration with Tech Europe Foundation (TEF), Bocconi University, and Politecnico di Milano, CDL-Milan will host programs in Manufacturing and Space, positioning the city as a European hub for science- and technology-driven entrepreneurship.
A flagship initiative of TEF, CDL-Milan is part of a broader effort to strengthen Europe’s deep tech ecosystem. Backed by Fondazione Politecnico di Milano, Bocconi University, ION Foundation, FSI, and the Milan Chamber of Commerce, TEF is creating long-term infrastructure to connect cutting-edge research with ambitious startups and visionary industry leaders.
Milan offers an ideal foundation for this ambition. Politecnico di Milano brings world-class expertise in engineering, applied science, and industrial research, while Bocconi University contributes leadership in economics, management, and innovation. Together, they anchor a vibrant ecosystem that supports the commercialization of scientific breakthroughs and the growth of globally competitive ventures.
CDL-Milan Mentors have technology backgrounds in a variety of industries.
For founders pursuing commercial opportunities that exploit the recent drop in the cost of accessing space and enable humanity to benefit from space-based technologies.
For founders using machine intelligence, IoT, cloud computing, robotics, 3D printing, new materials, and novel approaches to workforce augmentation to solve problems in manufacturing.
Francesco Billari, Rector of Bocconi University
“Innovation and entrepreneurship are no longer confined to tech hubs—they thrive wherever there is a strong culture of ideas, talent, and ambition. With CDL-Milan, we are strengthening Milan’s position on the global innovation map, and reinforcing Bocconi’s mission to be a driver of science-based entrepreneurship with social impact. This partnership embodies our commitment to future-oriented education and to supporting researchers and founders who want to make a difference.”
Donatella Sciuto, Rector of Politecnico di Milano
“Expanding the culture of entrepreneurship among our students and researchers is a cornerstone of Politecnico di Milano strategic vision. Our goal is to support closing the gap between groundbreaking research and Europe’s competitive edge by fostering the growth of deep tech startups that address critical technological and societal challenges. By joining the CDL innovation ecosystem, we are not only leveraging their expertise but also accelerating the implementation of our strategy, positioning Politecnico di Milano as a leader in driving transformative innovation.”
Pierluigi Zappacosta, Co-founder of Logitech
“I am thrilled to support the launch of CDL-Milan, in partnership with TEF, Bocconi University, Politecnico, and the bench of great mentors that is being assembled. I’m looking forward to bring my experience to the next generation of innovators who will be creating the future.”
Contact at cdl-milan@creativedestructionlab.com