As the global fiber and textile industry faces unprecedented challenges and opportunities, the 64th Dornbirn Global Fiber Congress (GFC) returns as the premier stage for breakthrough innovation, cross-sector collaboration, and forward-thinking solutions.
More than 100 international experts will share pioneering ideas on circular economy models, decarbonization strategies, and next-generation materials. The congress is once again set to be the space where industry leaders rethink, connect, and set the agenda for transformation.
5th Dornbirn GFC Innovation Days & First-Ever Innovation Award
The 2025 program includes the 5th Innovation Days, featuring leading companies, ambitious start-ups, and top research institutions. For the first time, the Dornbirn GFC Innovation Award will be presented, recognizing innovations that combine technical excellence with proven market impact.
“This award is not just about a good idea – it’s about a good idea that makes a difference, shapes industries, and reaches the market,” said Matthias W. Gluth, Managing Director of the Austrian Fibers Institute.
Spotlight on Workwear & Defense
This year’s thematic focus, Workwear & Defense, will feature 16 expert presentations in four dedicated sessions. Key topics include smart textile systems, flame-retardant fibers, textile sensors, and solutions for extreme environments. Industry leaders such as Lenzing AG (Austria), XTencate (USA), Textil Santanderina (Spain), Kermel SAS (France), PBI (Germany), Klopman – TDV International (Germany), and XLANCE Srl (Italy) will present the latest advances.
Pilot Launch of MICRO|FORCE
A major highlight will be the pilot launch of MICRO|FORCE, a global initiative aimed at tackling microfiber and microplastic pollution through science-based dialogue and cross-sector action. Developed in cooperation with the Technical University of Crete, SCRiBBs, and TU Wien, the initiative will feature workshops, live panels, and an educational YouTube series.
Other Program Highlights
- REHUBS session showcasing cutting-edge fiber-to-fiber recycling technologies and infrastructure projects in Europe.
- Live startup pitches for the Dornbirn GFC Innovation Award, spotlighting scalable technologies ready for market adoption.
- Launch of MICRO|FORCE as a multi-stakeholder effort to drive regulatory alignment and practical solutions to microplastic pollution.
“Our industry is at a crossroads,” said Robert van de Kerkhof, President of the Austrian Fiber Institute. “The urgency to decarbonize, rethink systems, and deliver scalable circular solutions has never been higher. At Dornbirn GFC 2025, we’re spotlighting the solutions that can move us from intent to impact.”
The Dornbirn GFC 2025 & 5th Innovation Days will take place September 10–12 in Dornbirn, Austria, bringing together innovators, researchers, and industry leaders committed to shaping the next chapter of the fiber and textile industry.
