NexTex: Empowering Next Generation Of Textile Entrepreneurs
The textile industry in India is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by innovation, sustainability and new business strategies. At the forefront of this change is NexTex, a dedicated leadership forum for second-generation textile entrepreneurs. Founded by Suchit Dodhia, Director of Dodhia Group and a leading force in the industry, NexTex aims to create a strong, collaborative community of young leaders who will redefine the future of India’s textile sector.
In an insightful conversation, Dodhia shared his thoughts on the vision behind NexTex, its impact on the industry, and the role of the second generation in shaping the future.
The idea of NexTex was born from a growing need for connection among second-generation textile entrepreneurs. According to Dodhia, while the first generation has played a pivotal role in building successful businesses, the second generation often lacks the same level of connectivity. “The first generation is well connected, and they are the drivers for business. Many entrepreneurs have grown their businesses from zero to multiple crores. However, the second generation is already in the business, but we are not as well connected,” he explained.
Dodhia noticed that young entrepreneurs were often not involved in industry councils, events or decision-making platforms. “That’s when my brother Bhadresh got involved in such a council. The energy was different, and I thought, ‘Why can’t we also have a platform where our energy, our thoughts and our vision can be collaborated?'” he reflected.
The core idea behind NexTex is to create a space where young entrepreneurs can connect, share ideas and solve common problems together. “A problem for me could be a solution for someone else. If we are well connected, these problems can be easily mitigated rather than hiring professionals,” Dodhia added.
The first event of NexTex will take place on February 15, 2025, at Bharat Tex 2025 in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. This launch event is expected to attract over 300 registrations, signaling strong interest from young entrepreneurs eager to connect and collaborate. “This is just a launch event where we will show the vision of NexTex to the ministry and the crowd. We have invited panelists who are second-generation business leaders, and they will share how they scaled their businesses when they joined the family business,” said Dodhia.
In addition to the keynote speeches, the event will provide ample networking opportunities. Delegates will gain insights into legacy expansion, modern business strategies and the importance of collaboration. “The value they will earn by joining this community is immense. It’s all about building connections, learning from each other and growing together,” he emphasized.
Looking beyond the launch event, Dodhia shared his plans for NexTex’s growth. He envisions regional chapters in the North, South and West zones of India, each led by influential leaders who will drive local initiatives. “We will need influencers or leaders from each zone. North, South, West will have their individual chapters, and the national chapter will be a place for quarterly or yearly events,” he outlined.
NexTex will also bring mentors, industry experts and government officials into the fold. By connecting young entrepreneurs with experienced mentors, the platform will help address key business challenges. “We have a database of 400-500 people, and they will share their problems and solutions. We’ll bring in the right mentors who can guide them,” Dodhia said.
When asked about his message to the young generation of textile entrepreneurs, Dodhia emphasized the importance of taking risks and being bold in decision-making. Reflecting on his own journey, he shared, “When I joined the business, I was fortunate enough that the first generation gave me the leverage to take bold steps. I introduced SAP and Kaizen Lean Implementation. It was a risk, but I succeeded and received the best manufacturing award in textiles by SAP.”
He encouraged the young generation to innovate, even if it means stepping into uncharted territory. “My message is: take risks, try something new that your first generation may not have done. Even if you fail, remember there are people who have already succeeded and can guide you,” he advised.
Dodhia also highlighted the significance of connectivity within the industry. “Your problem could be someone else’s solution. So, the more connected we are, the more we can achieve. That’s why NexTex is so important—it’s about building these connections,” he added.
NexTex represents a new era of growth and innovation for India’s textile industry. As young entrepreneurs come together to share their insights and build stronger networks, the industry is poised for a future defined by collaboration, sustainability and strategic growth. With the guidance of experienced leaders and the energy of the next generation, NexTex is set to make a lasting impact on the future of textiles in India.
Dodhia’s vision is clear: empower the second generation, foster strong connections, and drive India’s textile industry forward. With the launch of NexTex, this vision is just beginning to take shape. “This could become a massive movement for second-generation entrepreneurs,” he concluded.
