Bhutan FAB23 Bhutan

Conference and Symposium

Join a Global Community of Innovators

The event features four separate but interconnected programs, each a unique experience with a specific goal. The Fab Lab Conference is the third program.

The Fab Lab Conference is the key event in the digital fabrication community, attracting makers, educators, entrepreneurs, and policymakers from around the world. It is a forum for learning, innovation, and collaboration aimed at advancing the fields of digital fabrication, manufacturing, and AI development, among others.

This is the annual gathering of the global Fab Lab network, an opportunity to share experiences and knowledge, collaborate on projects, and explore new ideas related to digital fabrication and manufacturing, maker culture, and innovation. Each year, a different city or country hosts the event, with the goal of showcasing the local community and promoting cross-cultural exchange.

The first FabX event was held in 2005, and it has since become a significant event in the global fabber/maker community. Join us for FAB23 Bhutan—the 19th edition of FabX—and be part of an unforgettable event that combines sustainable design, digital fabrication, and local knowledge for a truly impactful experience.

Dates & location

When: July 24-27, 2023
Where: Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck Super Fab lab

Important Dates

March 29: Open Call for applications
April 30: Call for applications ends
TBD Research Paper applications ends
May 1: Early bird ticket season ends
May 31: Full Pass ticket season ends
May 1-15: Selection process of activities
JUNE: Program of activities
June 16: Visa application ends

What to expect during the Fab Conference

  • Symposium & Panels: Join keynote speakers and panelists from academia, industry, government, and community organizations. This is a valuable opportunity for attendees to gain new perspectives, expand their networks, and engage in meaningful discussions with peers and thought leaders in the field.
  • Workshops & Activities: Participants will work with experienced instructors to create projects with such tools as laser cutters, 3D printers, and CNC machines. The workshops are designed to be accessible for people with various levels of experience, from beginners to advanced users. Participants will have the opportunity to learn new skills, collaborate with others, and leave with a tangible product that they have created. These workshops provide a unique opportunity for attendees to gain practical experience and knowledge that they can take back to their own communities and Fab Labs.
  • Graduations: The graduation ceremony is an important part of the Fab Lab Conference, recognizing participants who have completed a program within the Fab Lab network. This is a chance to celebrate the achievements of our students in this cycle at Fab Academy, Fabricademy, Fab All-In, and MDDI. You may become inspired to join us next year.
  • Receptions: Mingle, network, and socialize! Join us for an unforgettable experience at the Fab Lab Conference, and make meaningful connections with other makers and innovators from around the world. Our receptions provide a relaxed and inviting atmosphere for participants to wind down after a day of learning and engagement. This is the perfect way to build relationships, share knowledge, and create new opportunities in a welcoming and supportive environment. Don't miss out on this unique chance to connect with like-minded individuals and be part of this exciting event.
  • Working Groups: Lead a space for projects that involve numerous people within the community—from learning programs under the Academany ecosystem to networks and projects. This is a chance to meet in person and discuss the roadmap for the coming year. The goal of these groups is to encourage cross-disciplinary collaboration and knowledge-sharing among participants with different backgrounds and expertise.