SME SWISS Symposium is dedicated to the topic „Industrial Revolution 2026“
The KMU SWISS Symposium Baden on 19 March 2026 is entitled «Industrial Revolution 2026» and focuses on the question of how markets can be revolutionized in a targeted manner and how sustainable competitive advantages can be gained from this. Changes - whether planned or unexpected - are seen as opportunities to create added value with new technologies, bold business models and innovative processes.
The focus is on technological developments as drivers of change, but also on the emotional and social dimensions of the «industrial revolution». Renowned experts will shed light on the signals of change, show concrete examples of success and discuss how companies can react to new framework conditions in good time. Participants will be given ideas on how they can actively shape their own future in this dynamic environment and differentiate themselves from the competition.
The symposium attaches great importance to a high degree of practical relevance and personal networking. In the presentations, current developments are presented in an understandable way and placed in an entrepreneurial context so that SMEs can make direct connections and transfer findings to their own reality. At the same time, the event offers numerous opportunities to exchange ideas with other entrepreneurs, experts and representatives of partner organizations.
The preliminary program
The actual symposium will be preceded by the City of Baden Marketplace, which serves as a lively meeting platform. In Hall 36/37, decision-makers, local players and business partners will meet for presentations, discussions and a stand-up aperitif. This lunchtime program already promotes dialogue, creates new contacts and prepares guests for the afternoon.
The official pre-symposium program will be followed by a company visit to «STERK CINE» at the Trafo Baden cinema, which will bridge the gap between theory and concrete practice. After a welcome address by the Standortförderung Baden, Alexandra Sterk (STERK CINE) and Dr. Adrian Schoop (Schoop + Co. AG) will briefly introduce their company and show in an interview how family businesses can face up to change and survive successfully in a challenging market environment. This company visit will also provide a rare glimpse behind the scenes of cinema technology.
The symposium
The networking concept is the common thread running through the entire event. From the marketplace to the company visits to the presentations, there is room for personal encounters, spontaneous discussions and the exchange of experiences across industries. What participants particularly appreciate about the KMU SWISS Symposia is the combination of in-depth content, immediate practicability and the informal yet professional atmosphere.
In terms of content, the symposium will be shaped by entrepreneurial personalities who will contribute different perspectives on the «Industrial Revolution 2026». These include moderator Hugo Bigi, who will lead the afternoon with precise questions and clear guidance, as well as speakers such as Rob Spence, Aude Pugin, Michael Böni, Dr. Steve S.W. Wang and Dr. Bernard L. Dy. They will shed light on the challenges and opportunities of change from the perspective of business, technology, communication and international development, providing food for thought that will have an impact far beyond the day of the event.
The Award
An emotional highlight of the symposium is the presentation of the KMU SWISS Award. From several nominated companies, a winner will be honored who impressively demonstrates with courage, perseverance and responsibility how sustainable success can be built up and secured over years and generations. The award ceremony in the plenary session and the subsequent celebration during the stand-up aperitif underline the importance of role models who not only manage change, but actively shape it.
More information: SME SWISS
