Forney Tech and Innovation Initiative - Forney Economic Development
Forney Economic Development is proud to announce the Tech and Innovation Initiative! This evolving effort launches in partnership with Robotopia, which is owned and operated by Terrence Southern. Future activities will include Robotopia, other partners and stakeholders collaborating to grow Forney's tech and innovation ecosystem.
As a part of this initiative, we are also proud to announce the Tech and Innovation Workshop Series brought forward in partnership with Robotopia. Targeted to Forney area businesses, residents and beyond, initial sessions are focused on the artificial intelligence, automation of manufacturing, robotics, workforce and more.
Stay tuned for more information and updates coming soon!
Forney Small Business Initiative
Forney Economic Development is thrilled to launch the Forney Small Business Initiative! This collective effort highlights existing and new small businesses in Forney while connecting them to invaluable resources. We aim to grow and strengthen the Forney small business community through partnerships and programmatic tools.
This effort includes the Forney Small Business Series. Upcoming events will be posted here as they are scheduled. For the Small Business Series, Forney Economic Development partners with Prairie View A&M Extension's Community and Economic Development Unit, which develops and delivers presentations for many of the sessions.
Monday, April 27, 2026: Automation or Extinction—How North Texas Manufacturers Stay Competitive in the Next 5 Years
Tech and Innovation Workshop Series event: Manufacturing is entering a defining decade—and the gap between companies that adopt automation and those that don’t is widening fast. This session breaks down what’s actually happening across North Texas and beyond, including rising labor constraints, global competition, and the acceleration of AI-driven production.
You’ll walk away with a clear understanding of where your operation stands today—and what actions are required now to remain competitive, profitable, and relevant over the next 5–10 years.
8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. - 210 S. Bois D'Arc. St.
Register here.
Monday, May 4, 2026: From Manual to Machine—A Practical Roadmap to Robotics Without Breaking Your Business
Tech and Innovation Workshop Series event: Most manufacturers know they need automation—but don’t know where to start. This workshop removes the guesswork by walking through a step-by-step roadmap for identifying the right processes, selecting the right technologies, and implementing robotics without disrupting operations or draining capital.
Learn how to start small, scale smart, and build automation into your business in a way that drives measurable results from day one.
8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. - 210 S. Bois D'Arc. St.
Register here.
Monday, May 11, 2026: Robots, AI & Jobs—What’s Really Changing—and How to Win in the New Workforce Economy
Tech and Innovation Workshop Series event: Will robots replace jobs—or reshape them? This session cuts through the noise and gives a real-world perspective on how automation and AI are transforming the workforce across manufacturing.
You’ll explore how roles are evolving, what skills are in demand, and how companies can upskill their workforce instead of replacing it. Whether you’re an employer, educator, or community member, you’ll gain a clear view of how to adapt, compete, and thrive in the future of work.
8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. - 210 S. Bois D'Arc. St.
Register here.
Monday, May 18, 2026: The Ins and Outs of Financial Statements
Small Business Series event: Learn the basic financial statements needed to look good when it's time to go to the bank!
8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. - 210 S. Bois D'Arc. St.
Register here.
Monday, May 18, 2026: North Texas Manufacturing Future Forum—Robotics, AI & the Next Industrial Shift
Tech and Innovation Workshop Series event: Manufacturing is being reshaped in real time—and North Texas is at the center of that transformation. This forum brings together manufacturers, industry leaders, and the broader community to unpack how robotics, automation, and AI are redefining production, workforce dynamics, and competitive advantage over the next decade.
Through practical insights, real-world examples, and live discussions, attendees will gain a clear understanding of what these technologies actually mean for their operations, their workforce, and their future. Whether you’re just beginning to explore automation or looking to scale advanced capabilities, this experience is designed to remove confusion, challenge assumptions, and provide a roadmap for action.
Walk away with a sharper perspective on where manufacturing is headed, what risks to avoid, and how to position your business—or career—to win in the next industrial shift.
10:30 a.m. to Noon - 210 S. Bois D'Arc. St.
Register here.
Forney EDC 2026 Small Business Series:
All events will be held at the Forney EDC's Business Center and Office, 210 S. Bois D'Arc St.
More information about future events will be forthcoming when registration opens. In the meantime, see the upcoming event dates below:
--Monday, June 15, 2026: "Business and Life Roundtable"
8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
--Monday, July 20, 2026: "Navigating the Non-Profit"
8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
--Monday, August 17, 2026: "Getting into Government Contracting"
8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
*Registration is free but required. See the Eventbrite pages for Forney EDC and PVAMU EXTENSION - KAUFMAN COUNTY as registration opening is announced.