PMMI has launched the SMB FastTrack Program, aimed at supporting small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) by providing streamlined access to resources and connections crucial for growth. This initiative will debut at PACK EXPO East 2026, taking place from February 17–19, 2026, at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia.
The SMB FastTrack Program is tailored to meet the specific needs of smaller enterprises. By incorporating intuitive planning tools and visual identifiers, the program aims to enhance the experience for attendees. Participants will find it easier to connect with exhibitors, educational sessions, and business resources that align with their growth objectives. Exhibitors who participate in this initiative will feature an SMB Friendly icon in the online directory and on the exhibition floor, indicating that they offer flexible financing, discounts, or specialized services for SMBs.
Attendees seeking machinery will benefit from a clear visual system; they can locate exhibitors with relevant machinery on-site by looking for a gear icon in the directory. In addition to these resources, PACK EXPO East 2026 will include a dedicated educational track focused on SMBs. Sessions will cover vital topics such as workforce development, artificial intelligence, food safety, digital manufacturing, lean operations, cost-effective packaging solutions, and scalable technologies.
According to Laura Thompson, Vice President of Trade Shows at PMMI, “The SMB FastTrack Program removes barriers to innovation by connecting SMBs directly with the solutions, resources, and partners they need most.” This initiative seeks to simplify planning while enhancing the overall event experience for smaller businesses.
Through a dedicated landing page, participants will have access to curated directories of suppliers, recommended educational sessions, and essential planning tools like the Sustainability Solutions Finder and Visual Category Search. The My Show Planner tool further supports attendees by allowing them to organize exhibitors, sessions, and events, as well as schedule meetings in advance, facilitating meaningful connections before, during, and after the event.
In a notable addition, the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce will be on-site at PACK EXPO East, providing valuable regional business resources and services aimed at supporting company growth.
“We’re putting planning power into the hands of attendees by ensuring every minute at PACK EXPO East leads to meaningful business outcomes,” Thompson added. She emphasized that the event is not solely about technology but also about fostering relationships, a key element enhanced by the SMB FastTrack Program.
The event will introduce two new AI-powered tools designed to simplify the search for packaging and processing solutions. The AI Category Search will allow users to type in a solution or upload an image of their product to receive recommendations that link directly to relevant exhibitors. Meanwhile, the AI Search Pilot will offer AI-generated, step-by-step guidance based on the user’s end product, with each step providing links to corresponding exhibitor categories.
PACK EXPO East 2026 is expected to feature approximately 500 exhibitors representing over 40 vertical markets. As the East Coast’s leading packaging and processing event, it will showcase innovations in automation, efficiency, sustainability, and materials across various industries, including food and beverage, life sciences, cosmetics, and household chemicals.
New features of the event include the Containers and Materials Pavilion, highlighting recyclable and biodegradable packaging solutions, as well as the Incubator Hub, presented in partnership with Ben Franklin Technology Partners. This hub will spotlight innovative startups and entrepreneurs from Pennsylvania, showcasing next-generation technologies shaping the packaging and processing landscape.
Returning attractions include the Reusable Packaging Pavilion and the Association Partner Pavilion. Attendees are encouraged to explore the Workforce Development Pavilion, where educational institutions and industry partners will present training opportunities designed to strengthen the packaging and processing workforce through PMMI U.
Beyond the exhibition, PACK EXPO East offers a comprehensive array of educational and networking opportunities. These include free presentations at the Innovation Stage and Industry Speaks, alongside social events like the Taste of Philly Opening Reception and the Young Professionals Networking Reception. The new Philly Snack Stop will facilitate daily networking on the show floor, while the immersive forum Vision 2030 will cater to leaders and decision-makers in the packaging and processing sectors, available through separate registration.
In summary, PACK EXPO East serves as a vital platform for decision-makers and innovators to exchange ideas and evaluate solutions, setting the stage for successful initiatives in 2026. Its strategic timing at the beginning of the year allows teams to gain a head start on their projects.
For further details and registration, visit www.packexpoeast.com.
PMMI, the Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, represents over 1,100 manufacturers and suppliers within the packaging and processing sectors. It connects consumer goods companies to manufacturing solutions through its comprehensive range of trade shows and media resources aimed at empowering its members. Learn more at pmmi.org and packexpo.com.
