The Digital Forge: Transforming Manufacturing with Tech
🔧 The Digital Forge – Transforming Manufacturing with Tech
Join us at The Digital Forge, Sheffield’s leading event where technology meets manufacturing. This is where deep-tech innovators, manufacturers, and investors come together to explore how AI, automation, and digital transformation are reshaping industry.
Expect a fast-paced evening featuring high-impact startup pitches, expert panels, live music, and plenty of time to connect—all set in a venue designed for collaboration and meaningful conversations.
🚀 What to Expect
✅ The Pitching Foundry – A high-energy, reimagined pitching session hosted by Andy Hanselman, where deep-tech founders present their innovations in tight 5-minute slots.
✅ Expert Panels – Two thought-provoking discussions:
• Panel 1: AI & Machine Learning in Manufacturing
• Panel 2: The Future of Manufacturing in the UK
✅ High-Value Networking – Meet investors, founders, and industry leaders shaping the future of UK industry.
✅ Live Entertainment – Enjoy music and good company in a relaxed, dynamic setting.
📅 Event Agenda
🔹 4:00 PM – Arrival & Networking
A relaxed hour for guests to meet, connect, and explore opportunities.
🔹 5:00 PM – Welcome Remarks
With your host and MC for the evening, David Richards.
🔹 5:10 PM – Opening Keynote
Prof. Keith Ridgway, Executive Chair, National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS)
Reindustrialising the UK through innovation, investment, and leadership.
🔹 5:30 PM – The Pitching Foundry (Round 1)
Hosted by Andy Hanselman
• NIQS Tech – Robert Mathieson, COO – Quantum-powered, needle-free glucose monitoring
• Kausal Maintenance – Louis Allen, Founder & CEO – AI-driven predictive maintenance for manufacturers
🔹 5:40 PM – Panel 1: AI & Machine Learning in Manufacturing
Moderator: David Richards
Panellists:
• Tom Clayton, Co-founder, IntelliamAI
• Cristina Sesma, Head of Growth, Productive Machines
• Robin Hartley Willows, Co-founder & CTO, FourJaw Manufacturing Analytics
• Dr. Rob Ward, AMRC / University of Sheffield
🔹 6:10 PM – The Pitching Foundry (Round 2)
• Future Greens – David Dixon, Co-founder – Modular anaerobic digesters turning waste into on-site energy
• Choppity – Aaron Morris & Zara Anita Paul, Co-founders – AI-powered browser-based video editing for content teams
🔹 6:20 PM – Panel 2: The Future of Manufacturing in the UK
Moderator: David Richards
Panellists:
• Victoria Clarke Brown CDir, CFO, Kitlocker.com
• Timothy Jewitt, Director, Footprint Tools
• Charlotte Hill, UK Operations Director, Gripple UK & Ireland
• Richard Gould, Sales Director, Sheffield Technology Ltd; Chair, Made Smarter Yorkshire & Humber
🔹 6:50 PM – Closing Keynote
Adam Pollock, Co-founder, The Digital Forge / Oberon Investments
Bringing capital markets to the regions: unlocking Sheffield’s potential through partnerships like Oberon x Yorkshire AI Labs.
🔹 7:05 PM – Networking & Drinks
Continue the conversations over drinks and music with founders, investors, and leaders from across the UK manufacturing ecosystem.
🎯 Why Attend?
🔥 See Innovation Firsthand – Discover how AI and digital tools are transforming manufacturing.
🎤 Engage in Cutting-Edge Discussions – Hear from those building and funding the future.
🤝 Meet the Right People – Make meaningful connections with those who can help you grow, scale, or innovate.
🚗 Parking Info
Recommended nearby car parks:
• Q-Park Castlegate (Blonk Street, S1 2BG) – 2 mins walk
• Victoria Quays Car Park (S4 7SW) – Gated, limited spaces
• Pre-book nearby spots via YourParkingSpace
🔹 A Note on Attendance – Ensuring High-Value Connections
The Digital Forge is designed to connect deep tech and advanced manufacturing founders with investors, industry leaders, and stakeholders who can help drive real growth.
To keep the focus on collaboration and opportunity, we kindly ask that service providers (consultants, recruiters, agencies, etc.) do not attend unless invited or directly involved in the programme.
We can’t wait to welcome you.
👉 Register now to secure your spot:
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