TEXTILES.ORG
The Advanced Functional Fabrics of America (AFFOA) will host its 2025 Advanced Functional Fabrics Summit Sept. 23-24 at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Mass. The event gathers textile and technology sectors, bringing together industry leaders, researchers, startups and government/military officials to explore future trends in functional fabrics and demo the latest fiber and textile innovations.
The two-day Summit will feature keynote addresses from John Kirejczyk, director of Technology Management & Integration at the U.S. Army Program Executive Office (PEO) Soldier, who will discuss how fabric technologies can meet key soldier requirements. Eric Evans, director emeritus of the MIT Lincoln Laboratory and AFFOA Board Chair, will share insights on the evolving landscape of the industrial base for national defense.
A highlight of the Summit is the Startup Pitch Competition, which showcases emerging companies with innovative textile solutions in an interactive, fast-paced session. The event will also include an AFFOA Member Spotlight Round, offering members an opportunity to present their capabilities and technologies, which may support future collaborations.
Panel discussions will focus on digital engineering, advanced manufacturing automation, and education and workforce development, with special presentations focusing on emerging technologies shaping the future of functional textiles. The Summit aims to foster networking and collaboration across sectors and highlight technological advancements in textiles for applications spanning healthcare, defense, aerospace, sports and consumer goods.
While primarily intended for AFFOA members and Government partners, non-members interested in attending can request an invitation at eventhelp@affoa.org. AFFOA is a non-profit, public-private partnership and one of the 18 Manufacturing USA Innovation Institutes headquartered in Cambridge, Mass.