After an overwhelming response from the manufacturing community in Bengaluru, where over 150 SME manufacturing leaders gathered under one roof, The Future Factory Forum 2025 is now heading to Chennai, India’s automobile manufacturing capital. Scheduled for 21 August 2025, this landmark event is not just another industry meet — it is a mission-driven movement to drive digital transformation, Industry 4.0 adoption, and smart automation across India’s SME manufacturing ecosystem.
From Buzz to Breakthrough: The Bengaluru Momentum
The first edition of The Future Factory Forum, held in Bengaluru on 27 June (View Bengaluru event coverage), exceeded expectations — both in attendance and impact. The forum became a buzzing hub of practical insights, collaborative energy, and real-world solutions. But one thing was clear from every conversation, panel discussion, and one-on-one advisory session: Indian SMEs are ready. Ready to learn, adopt, and lead the change.
The highlight of the day was the powerful panel discussion titled “Digitise or Disappear”, where leading industry experts candidly addressed the urgent need for digital transformation in Indian SME manufacturing. The session struck a chord, triggering deep reflection among attendees. The message was loud and clear: Either adapt to the new era of smart manufacturing or risk being left behind.
The Future Factory Forum was hailed by attendees as a “must-attend event” — practical, relatable, and solution-focused unlike anything they had experienced before.
Why Chennai? Why Now?
As India’s hub for automotive manufacturing and industrial innovation, Chennai is the perfect next destination. With thousands of auto components manufacturers and industrial SMEs, the city represents a vital segment of the Indian economy — one that stands to gain immensely by adopting digital-first strategies.
In Chennai, the event is poised to carry forward its vision, supported by nasscom SME Connect, and in association with Madras Chamber MCCI . Together, they aim to bridge the gap between SMEs and technology, showing that transformation is not only necessary — it’s achievable.
Mission:
To make digital transformation accessible, affordable, and actionable for SME manufacturing units through simplified, step-by-step guidance.
Vision:
To build a resilient, tech-powered SME ecosystem that drives India’s global manufacturing competitiveness by enabling Smart Factories of the Future.
What to Expect – Chennai Agenda Highlights
🔹 Expert-Led Knowledge Sessions:
From decoding the buzzwords to delivering real impact, these keynote talks and presentations will help SMEs begin — and sustain — their transformation journey.
- Industry 4.0 Readiness for SMEs: Turning Challenges into Opportunities Through Digital Adoption
- Sustainability & Green Manufacturing: Creating Smarter, Greener Supply Chains
- Digital Transformation Tools & Trends for SMEs: What to Adopt and When
- Robotic Automation: Scalable Solutions for Every Size Business
- Right Technology Adaptation for Business Growth: Simplifying Tech for Maximum ROI
- From Machines to Intelligence: Unlocking SME Growth with Industrial IoT
- Smart Automation & Industry 4.0: Low-Cost Integration for SMEs
- Smart Manufacturing Support & R&D: Leveraging Central Government Institutions
🔹 Thought-Provoking Panel Discussions:
Panel 1: “Digitise or Disappear: The Urgent Need for Digital Transformation in Indian SME Manufacturing” A wake-up call for every SME, this session will feature industry leaders who will simplify the digital adoption roadmap and offer practical strategies to overcome common barriers like cost, knowledge, and fear of disruption.
Panel 2: “Future-Proofing Indian Manufacturing: What Skills, Tools & Strategies Will Define SME Growth?” This powerful dialogue between academia, startups, and industry veterans will decode what the future demands — from talent and tools to leadership and mindset shifts.
SME-StartX – Where Innovation Meets Opportunity
Running parallel to the main event, SME-StartX is a specially curated startup showcase designed to connect startups with SMEs. Startups will present cutting-edge solutions in AI, IoT, MES, automation, and robotics — all tailored to solve real challenges in manufacturing units.
Startups will benefit through:
- Live product showcases
- Curated one-on-one B2B meetings
- Direct conversations with decision makers
- Lead generation and branding opportunities
For SMEs, it’s a chance to discover affordable, ready-to-implement technologies and connect with innovation leaders driving next-gen manufacturing.
Who Should Attend?
- SME Owners and Manufacturing Decision Makers
- Factory Managers and Plant Heads
- Automation and Operations Heads
- Startup Founders in Industry 4.0 Solutions
- Policy Makers, Consultants, and Academia
Why The Future Factory Forum Matters
The Future Factory Forum is not a theoretical seminar. It’s a blueprint for action. The global manufacturing landscape is changing rapidly. Technologies like AI, robotics, and digital twins are no longer luxuries — they are necessities. While large enterprises have already embraced this shift, SMEs often lag behind due to lack of awareness, resources, or fear of complexity.
This event aims to break those barriers. Through real-world stories, hands-on advice, and direct interactions with solution providers, SMEs will walk away with clarity, confidence, and contacts to begin their digital journey.
FREE Entry for SME Owners and Decision Makers
Seats are limited. With growing interest from across Tamil Nadu’s manufacturing landscape, we urge you to register early to reserve your spot at this high-impact event.
REGISTER NOW and take the first step toward a smarter, stronger future for your business.
Let’s Digitise. Innovate. Future-Proof.