The IKIGAI project is a flagship European initiative supporting the transition toward Physical Internet–enabled logistics systems. By aligning freight operations with open standards, digital connectivity, and sustainability goals, IKIGAI contributes to the development of more collaborative, efficient, and zero-emission logistics networks. 

As a Silver Sponsor of IPIC 2026, IKIGAI plays an important role in strengthening links between research, policy, and industry across Europe and beyond. Through real-world pilots, innovation frameworks, and international collaboration, the project helps translate the Physical Internet vision into scalable and actionable solutions, making it a key contributor to the global ecosystem.

IKIGAI project: supporting the Twin Transition of European logistics

IKIGAI is an EU-funded project supporting the digital and green transition of freight transport and logistics in Europe.

The project works towards affordable, collaborative and coordinated Systems of Logistics Networks, helping logistics actors make better use of shared resources, improve operational efficiency and reduce emissions. IKIGAI contributes to the long-term realisation of the Physical Internet by advancing open, standardised and collaborative logistics processes across Europe.

What IKIGAI delivers

IKIGAI develops and scales five complementary Logistics Innovations that support the transition towards more connected, efficient and low-emission supply chains.

• Trustee matchmaking & volume pooling
•  eFTI-compliant service platform for SMEs
• Smart & synchromodal urban hubs
• Chain of custody for carbon calculation, “Book & Claim” for emissions accounting
• Reusable standard modular SMART-Box and related governance models

Together, these solutions help companies, networks and public authorities move from fragmented logistics operations towards more collaborative and interoperable models.

From innovation to adoption

The IKIGAI project addresses the conditions needed for wider uptake of the innovative solutions, including collaboration models, governance, standardisation, market readiness, regulation and stakeholder engagement.

A key part of this work is the development of the PI Norm, which defines standard processes and procedures that make logistics services Physical Internet compliant. The PI Norm provides the practical “how” for implementing Physical Internet principles in real logistics operations.

IKIGAI also contributes to the Twin Transition Genome, a long-term roadmap for logistics that integrates decarbonisation, digitalisation, resilience and Physical Internet development. 

IKIGAI ecosystem

IKIGAI is building an engagement ecosystem to support knowledge exchange, stakeholder dialogue and uptake of project results. This includes the PI Ambassadors, the Nishida Circle, the PI Coalition and the PI Observatory.

Become a PI Ambassador

IKIGAI invites recognised professionals to join a global community accelerating the adoption of the Physical Internet.

A PI Ambassador is a recognised expert contributing to the advancement of PI by bridging innovation and real-world implementation, promoting standards, and supporting the transition towards a digital and decarbonised logistics system.

As a PI Ambassador, you will engage with a high-level international network, contribute to shaping the future of logistics, and gain visibility across the European and global innovation ecosystem.

Become a PI Ambassador

To know more about the project follow the project on LinkedIn and visit the website.