Integr8 Conference to Include 

3D Printer Pitch Competition

Back by popular demand, the 2023 Integr8 conference will include a 3D Printer Pitch Competition hosted by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s (MEDC) Pure Michigan Business Connect. The grand prize is a state-of-the-art 3D printer.

The competition is for manufacturers interested in competing for a Mark Two (Gen2) 3D printer to integrate into their manufacturing business. How can an industrial 3D printer solve a labor, capacity, or process challenge and support your overall business? Selected applicants will be invited to an in-person pitch competition on May 9, 2023, during Automation Alley’s Integr8 Conference. 

The grand prize is a Markforged Mark Two (Gen2) 3D Printer and a 1-year Advance Subscription package.

Businesses interested in participating must complete the application form by April 6, 2023.

Grand prize winner will receive a Markforged 3D printer and software subscription valued at more than $30,000 

TROY, Mich., Feb. 16, 2023 – Integr8, Automation Alley’s Industry 4.0 conference, which returns Tuesday, May 9, will include a 3D Printer Pitch Competition hosted by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s (MEDC) Pure Michigan Business Connect. 

Manufacturers vying for a 3D printer capable of composite and metal printing are invited to apply and compete in a process that culminates in a live-pitch presentation during the conference. 

The grand prize is valued at more than $30,000 and includes a Markforged Mark Two (Gen2) 3D Printer, a one-year Advance Subscription package, a material starter pack, access to user training and set up, tech support and more. 

“For many small manufacturers, the cost of a 3D printer is often hard to justify. But just one 3D printer can help a company leap forward into the Industry 4.0 digital revolution,” said Tom Kelly, Automation Alley executive director and CEO. “That’s why we believe this year’s 3D Printer Pitch Competition not only provides Michigan manufacturers with the opportunity to add important capabilities to their manufacturing process, but also the chance to positively impact the industry and change the world through the power of 3D printing.” 

Manufacturers interested in participating must meet the following criteria and complete an application by Thursday, April 6: 

• Operate at least one manufacturing facility in Michigan;
• Be classified as a small business by the Small Business Administration; and
• Be an Essential Member with Automation Alley or an existing Automation Alley member. 

Eligible businesses can learn more and apply here. 

Selected applicants will be invited to an in-person pitch competition during the Integr8 conference. Each participant will be asked to present a four-minute pitch to a panel of judges that briefly defines a problem or inefficiency, explains how a 3D printer will solve the problem and communicate the impact of their project., 

Integr8 will once again bring together technology and manufacturing leaders from across the globe. The conference, now in its sixth year, will focus on smart manufacturing that promotes agility, resiliency and efficiency. The conference will include a smart manufacturing exhibition, a keynote presentation from Fraunhofer USA President Dr. Thomas Schuelke, breakout sessions, tech talks and, for the first time since 2019, the return of roundtables. 

“The Fourth Industrial Revolution comes with many challenges and this year’s Integr8 conference will prepare us for the obstacles to come and bring us one step closer to understanding the digitally transformed, software-automated 21st century,” Kelly said. 

Those who would like to attend Integr8 2023 or are interested in exploring sponsorship and speaking opportunities can learn more here. 

Integr8 is also offering a 20% discount for early registration through Feb. 28. Expo entry is free while the All-Access Pass includes the keynote, breakout sessions, roundtables along with breakfast and lunch for $159. Those who wish to attend can register here. 

About Automation Alley

Automation Alley is a nonprofit Industry 4.0 knowledge center and home to the World Economic Forum's US Center for Advanced Manufacturing. With a global outlook and a regional focus, we facilitate public-private partnerships by connecting industry, education and government to fuel Michigan's economy and accelerate innovation. Our programs give businesses a competitive advantage by helping them along every step of their digital transformation journey. We obsess over disruptive technologies like AI, the Internet of Things and automation, and work hard to make these complex concepts easier for companies to understand and implement. Visit automationalley.com.