PMMI, the Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, introduced the SMB FastTrack Program. This program helps small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in packaging and processing. It gives them access to suppliers, technology, education, and growth. The new program launches at PACK EXPO East 2026. This event is set for February 17-19, 2026, at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia.
SMB FastTrack helps small and medium businesses easily navigate trade shows. It links them to useful innovations and tech solutions that match their size and needs. It offers planning tools, visual cues in exhibitor directories, and focused educational tracks. These features help companies grow by using smarter technology and making the right connections.
As PMMI’s Vice President of Trade Shows, Laura Thompson explains, “The SMB FastTrack Program removes barriers to innovation by connecting SMBs directly with the solutions, resources, and partners they need most.”
What the SMB FastTrack Program Offers
The SMB FastTrack Program seeks to ensure that large industry conferences such as PACK EXPO East become more accessible and productive for smaller manufacturers through:
Intuitive Planning Tools
Attendees can leverage visual category search, directories, and planning tools to easily identify SMB-friendly exhibitors and sessions prior to and during the event. These tools include:
SMB Friendly icons in exhibitor directories to indicate vendors offering flexible financing terms, discounts, or services that benefit SMBs.
Organized educational tracks that emphasize business growth issues, including workforce development, digital transformation in manufacturing, cost-efficient automation, and scalable supply chain solutions.
AI-driven category search tools that enable users to easily identify relevant technologies by searching using keywords or images of products.
Also Read: OpenAI Introduces Bespoke AI Agent for Deep Data Analysis
SMB-Focused Education
The program offers focused learning sessions on important topics for SMBs, including:
Lean operations and digital manufacturing
Artificial intelligence (AI) for production improvement
Supply chain strategies for startups
Scalable automation solutions that fit limited budgets
Connections and Resources
SMBs can get on-site support from local groups like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce. They offer resources and services to help companies grow and succeed.
Why This Matters for the Business Technology Industry
The SMB FastTrack Program launch is a reflection of the importance that business technology has assumed in the context of SMB competitiveness in the ever-changing manufacturing environment. Business technology fuels innovation through automation, digital solutions, AI, and analytics. This helps businesses work smarter, innovate quickly, and compete effectively worldwide.
1. Reducing Barriers to Digital Adoption
SMBs often face challenges when adopting new technologies. Budget limits, lack of knowledge, and no in-house expertise can hold them back. The SMB FastTrack Program connects smaller manufacturers with vendors and solutions. It helps them use business technology, such as digital production planning, automation, and AI analytics.
2. Focused Education on Key Operational Technologies
As digital transformation becomes a necessity in various sectors, SMBs require specific education that enables them to implement technology effectively. The educational tracks offered by the SMB FastTrack Program, including digital manufacturing and AI, offer valuable insights to teams to invest in technology with confidence.
3. Building Networks and Partnerships
Technology adoption in business is more than just tools; it’s about connections. SMB FastTrack links small businesses to suppliers, service partners, and organizations. This helps small businesses access funding, knowledge, and partnerships.
This is particularly important in a world where technologies are rapidly changing and where partnerships in the ecosystem are unlocking capabilities and accelerating innovation.
Impact on Businesses Operating in the Industry
Improved Operational Efficiency
SMBs using technology through SMB FastTrack can access tools like:
Advanced planning software
Production automation
Digital quality management systems
These tools help streamline operations. This efficiency reduces errors, boosts throughput, and ultimately lowers operational costs.
Greater Innovation and Competitiveness
Digital and business technologies allow SMBs to innovate product lines, change production processes, and quickly respond to market changes. Smaller businesses can compete effectively with larger businesses by using technology effectively. This will help them improve quality, meet deadlines, and respond to customers effectively. These are important aspects in a competitive market.
Scalability and Growth Potential
With curated support, SMBs can adopt scalable tech solutions that grow with them. Instead of one-time upgrades, these technologies allow for modular expansion. This includes adding predictive maintenance tools, cloud-based analytics, or intelligent automation.
Enhanced Workforce Capabilities
With the shift in manufacturing to digital, skills in the workforce become critical. SMB FastTrack’s emphasis on education, such as digital tools, lean principles, and best practices in technology, can help close skill gaps and enable workers to effectively utilize new technology.
Conclusion
The PMMI SMB FastTrack Program is a huge opportunity for small and medium manufacturers to fast-track their technology journey. The program makes it easier for small and medium businesses to gain access to solutions and education, which helps them connect with each other, thus supporting the Business Technology ecosystem to adopt digital transformation and succeed in the global economy.