Federal Contracting Basics and Certifications for Small Businesses
Building on the momentum of our recent 3rd Annual State & Local Cyber Security Summit — which brought together 950+ attendees from 42 states and featured 85+ speakers — this year’s flagship event continues to expand the conversation across all levels of government and their industry partners. The 17th Annual Summit will focus on those essential collaborations, convening more than 3,000 attendees and 250+ top speakers across 50+ sessions and breakouts, delivering critical insights into today’s most pressing cyber challenges, emerging threats, and best practices.
SBA’s “Big 4” Certifications: Federal Foundations + State Certification Opportunities
Small-business certifications open doors to billions of dollars in contracting opportunities at the federal, state, and local levels. This master course walks business owners through the four SBA federal certifications—8(a), WOSB/EDWOSB, HUBZone, and Veteran (SDVOSB/VOSB)—with detailed eligibility requirements, required documents, application portals, and recertification processes. The course also introduces participants to state-level programs such as DBE, MWBE, HUB, SBE, and SWaM. A 50-state quick finder tool is provided.
Mission-Ready: Small Business Contracting Summit
Mission-Ready: Small Business Contracting Summit is an opportunity for small and veteran-owned businesses to learn how to access and secure government contracting opportunities at city, state and federal levels.
The event is held in partnership with Shoppas and the Lone Star Chapter of the National Defense Industrial Association.
The summit's main presentation will focus on how small businesses can compete for federal defense opportunities, and will be presented by Ashley Farrier, Director of Office of Small Business Programs for U.S. Special Operations Command.
Additionally, participants will also hear from a panel of industry experts who will provide practical guidance on:
Procurement systems and how they work
Ways to find and pursue contracting opportunities
Certifications needed and how to obtain them
Opportunities to connect with prime subcontractors and government agencies
Tips to submit strong, competitive bids for projects
Several resource and partner tables will also be available outside of the Council Chamber for participants to learn more about local organizations that provide support and services for veteran-owned businesses and other small businesses.
NASA OSBP Engagement 2026 L.I.F.T.
The NASA Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP) is committed to strengthening the agency’s industrial base by creating and providing opportunities to small businesses and fostering strategic partnerships with NASA prime contractors and procurement officials. This structured engagement will enhance supply-chain resiliency by addressing supply-chain gaps in space-related acquisitions and expanding subcontracting opportunities for small business categories. By connecting industry leaders, procurement officials, and small businesses, the summit will support NASA’s mission needs while building domestic capabilities and ensuring a robust, competitive supplier base for future technology advancements.
Freedom 250 Supplier Matchmaking Expo
The Freedom 250 Supplier Matchmaking Expo is your chance to meet domestic corporate partners from companies of all sizes that are looking for suppliers. This unique opportunity will bring together buyers and suppliers looking to strengthen their U.S. supply chains.
Hosted by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Matchmaking services provided by the VA APEX and Small Business Development Center.
Why Attend?
Meet directly with buyers
Build relationships that could lead to future contracts
Network with other businesses in your field
What's Included?
One-on-one matchmaking meetings
Exhibit hall with U.S. buyers and local, state and federal organizations that support small manufacturers
Don't miss out on meeting key industry players and discovering fresh opportunities. Limited space available, so register today!
SBIR/STTR Fall Innovation Conference
From September 22–24, 2026, America’s Seed Fund will return to the Gaylord National Hotel & Convention Center in National Harbor, just outside Washington, D.C., for the SBIR/STTR Fall Innovation Conference.
Are you exploring how to bring your technology to market? This three-day event will highlight resources and programs available to support tech-focused entrepreneurs in commercializing their technology. Convene with federal agencies, innovators, investors, and industry leaders to further your business growth.
NSBGCA Webinar Series: Beyond the Set-Aside: How Small Businesses Win When the Rules Are Changing
For the first time in a decade, dollars flowing to small business federal contractors declined — even as overall federal spending rose — and the 8(a) pipeline has effectively closed. In a market this tight, waiting for a set-aside is no longer a strategy. In this 30-minute session, Kevin Plexico, Senior Vice President of Information Solutions at Deltek, shares the leading strategies small businesses are using to build pipeline and position for growth: engaging in opportunity development early to shape requirements before solicitations drop, determining a deliberate contract vehicle strategy, targeting diversification toward the fastest-growing agencies, and investing in the compliance capabilities that actually help you win. You’ll leave with a practical framework for building pipeline in a market that rewards preparation over entitlement.
Federal Reserve System's 2026 Fall Procurement Series | Session 2: Procure Connect
Join us for the 2026 Fall Procurement Series. Through three engaging sessions, you'll gain valuable insight into the Federal Reserve System's procurement process, strengthen your competitive advantage, and build meaningful connections that position your business for future contracting opportunities.
Session 2: Navigate the acquisition process, learn how to develop responsive proposals, and sign up to meet with program managers, contracting officers, and procurement professionals.
NSBGCA Webinar Series: Prompt, Build, or Buy: The Real Cost of AI in GovCon Capture
Most small business GovCons are already using AI across their business. They are now in the process of attempting to adopt these tools successfully, and successful adoption comes down to two things: RoTs (return on token spend) and security.
Why are these the two primary evaluation drivers?
Tokenmaxxing came and went because the spend far exceeded the output. Token spend should be controlled just like any other budget, and blind AI usage is a great way to destroy your margins.
AI audits will only become more common, and one bad move can cost you an opportunity or damage your business's relationship with an agency.
When looking at how to adopt AI for GovCon capture, there are three options:
Build a process around a frontier model, connecting an LLM to your business systems and creating agents and prompts.
Build your own tool using an AI coding tool (and hiring a software engineer)
Invest in a purpose-built solution that leverages the frontier models but is tailored for finding opportunities, managing GovCon relationships, and generating proposals.
This session breaks down the prompt, build, or buy decision for GovCon BD. We will walk through each option with live demonstrations, from evaluating it to the actual steps of implementing it. Then we will show the likely return of each across the three stages of a government bid: finding, qualifying, and writing. Throughout, we come back to the two questions that decide whether AI is working for you: can you account for where your data goes, and does the spend come back as won work?
Inside the Government Mindset: What Government Buyers Wish Contractors Knew
Overview
Get the inside scoop on what government customers really want from their contractors in this online event!
Inside the Government Mindset
Ever wondered what government customers really want from their contractors? Join Addoh & Co. for an online event diving deep into the government mindset and uncover the secrets to building better partnerships. It's your chance to get inside info, ask questions, and learn how to stand out. Don't miss out on this eye-opening session designed for anyone keen to win and work with the government!
Federal Reserve System's 2026 Fall Procurement Series | Session 3: Meet the Program Managers
Join us for the 2026 Fall Procurement Series. Through three engaging sessions, you'll gain valuable insight into the Federal Reserve System's procurement process, strengthen your competitive advantage, and build meaningful connections that position your business for future contracting opportunities.
Session 3: Engage directly with program managers, contracting officers, and procurement professionals to gain a deeper understanding of business needs, procurement priorities, and future contracting opportunities. Build meaningful relationships and discover where your company’s capabilities can add value.
Federal Small Business Conference for the A/E/C Industry Day 2026
The Federal Small Business Conference is the market research event of the year for the federal A/E/C sector. With over 5,000 attendees, this conference welcomes small businesses to learn more about working with government and how to compete for contracts, provides ample networking opportunities and business development platforms for firms across the industry, and offers federal agencies the chance to meet with their service and product providers, and much more.
SAME Federal Small Business Conference
The Small Business Conference (SBC) brings together senior government leaders, industry executives, and emerging innovators for an unparalleled opportunity to align strategy, strengthen partnerships, and shape the future of federal programs. Recognized as The Strategic Business Connection of the Year, SBC goes beyond a traditional conference. It is a catalyst for meaningful engagement—where mission requirements meet innovative solutions, and relationships turn into results.
NSBGCA Webinar Series: Joint Venturing and Teaming for New Business Opportunities — Get the Competitive Edge and Avoid the Pitfalls
The focus of the training is on the benefits of establishing a compliant joint venture or other teaming relationship under SBA’s mentor-protégé program while also avoiding the regulatory pitfalls that can doom the relationship, including the loss of contracts.
National Veterans Small Business Engagement (NVSBE) 2026
The National Veterans Small Business Engagement (NVSBE) 2026 will take place on December 8–9, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
This year's theme — Show Up. Connect. Own the Opportunity. — captures the spirit of what NVSBE is all about. It is a call to action for every Veteran entrepreneur and small business owner to step forward, build meaningful connections, and seize the contracting opportunities that await.
NVSBE is the premier Federal event connecting Veteran-owned small businesses with government procurement professionals. Whether you are a first-time attendee or a returning participant, this two-day engagement offers unmatched access to contracting opportunities, industry leaders, and Federal agency representatives.
📅 Event Dates: December 8–9, 2026
📍 Location: Cleveland, Ohio
🌐 Save-the-Date Website: Coming Soon
GRF Cybersecurity Symposium 2026 Presented by GRF CPAs & Advisors
Insight for what keeps you up at night.
GRF’s fourth annual Virtual Cyber Symposium provides a 360-degree overview of the latest strategies for improving cybersecurity and operational IT functions at any size organization.
Topics will include
The Evolving Privacy Landscape
Securing CUI/FCI in Government Contracting
AI Frameworks & Governance
Cyber Insurance Trends
Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery
Aligning ERM, Audit and Cybersecurity for Better Governance
Full agenda coming soon! 3 CPE credits are available for this event.
Please note: to maintain a curated and focused experience for attendees, this event is not open to other vendors or service providers.
Federal Reserve System’s 2026 Fall Procurement Series | Session 1: Doing Business with Federal Reserve System
Join us for the 2026 Fall Procurement Series. Through three engaging sessions, you'll gain valuable insight into the Federal Reserve System's procurement process, strengthen your competitive advantage, and build meaningful connections that position your business for future contracting opportunities.
Session 1: Discover how the Federal Reserve System is organized, what we buy, and how to do business with the Board of Governors, the Federal Reserve Banks, and the National Procurement Office. Hear directly from procurement professionals as they discuss their purchasing portfolios and procurement processes.
Virtual Matchmaking360 Defense/Aerospace
When: 27 Aug 2026 2:00 PM, EDT
Where: Virtual Teams Meeting
We are excited to invite you to join us for our upcoming Virtual Matchmaking360 virtual event on August 27, 2026 from 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM EST.
This session will focus on Defense/Aerospace. It is designed for primes and agencies looking to connect with HUBZone-certified small businesses in these fields. This event will be taking place on August 27, 2026 from 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM EST for Defense/Aerospace businesses. There are only 8 slots available for HUBZone Council Small Business Members.
How does Virtual Matchmaking360 work?
HUBZone small businesses will have the opportunity to pitch their capabilities to a virtual forum of Large Business Prime contractors and government agencies.
Each HUBZone Small Business will have 8 minutes to present, 5 minutes for any questions from the buyers, and 2 minutes between each supplier.
The Supplier information will be collected and shared with Buyers after the event. This will allow networking to support future opportunities. ...MORE
***Please note this event is a HUBZone Contractors National Council, Inc MEMBER ONLY EVENT and is on a "first come, first served" basis and member companies with services most aligned with the buyers will be prioritized.***
***Member Organizations not selected for one of the eight openings will be placed on the standby list. Should there be a cancellation, the next MEMBER company (in order of registration) will be contacted no less than 48 hours before the event to advise of an opening. Companies that do not get a chance to participate in this event, will be placed at the top of the list for participation in the next Defense/Aerospace event. The eight companies selected to participate will receive a calendar invite and specific guidance regarding their presentation
Doing Business with the States of Alabama, Florida, and Georgia - Hosted by APEX Accelerators
Join the VA OSDBU with APEX Accelerators for a fast‑paced session designed to help small businesses understand how to do business with Alabama, Florida, and Georgia state government agencies. Three APEX Accelerator counselors will walk you through the key databases, registration requirements, and essential steps needed to compete for state and local contracts.
You’ll learn how to navigate state procurement systems, identify opportunities, and position your business to win government work across the region.
Navy Gold Coast 2026
The Department of the Navy Gold Coast Small Business Procurement Event is the premier Navy procurement conference and exposition focused on connecting small businesses with Department of the Navy and Department of Defense acquisition professionals. Hosted by the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA) in partnership with the Department of the Navy Office of Small Business Programs, the event features educational sessions, keynote speakers, networking opportunities, one-on-one matchmaking meetings, and access to government agencies, major defense contractors, and industry partners.
TechNet Augusta 2026
TechNet Augusta 2026, held August 17-20 in Augusta, Georgia, is a leading forum for cyber, signal, and multi-domain operations professionals from the military, government, industry, and academia. Hosted with support from the U.S. Army Cyber Center of Excellence, the event fosters networking, collaboration, and innovation among warfighters, acquisition officials, and technology providers — with a strong emphasis on bridging industry and DoD through discussion of emerging cyber/EM capabilities and procurement challenges.
2026 DoDIIS Worldwide Conference
The Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) will host the 2026 DoDIIS Worldwide Conference August 9–12, 2026, in Tampa, Florida. This annual event brings together government and military leaders, Intelligence Community professionals, industry partners, and academia to discuss mission priorities and technology solutions supporting national security. The conference theme, DIA Next: Intelligence Technologies for Battlespace Lethality, focuses on the role of advanced intelligence capabilities, modernized technologies, and industry collaboration in supporting military readiness and the evolving needs of defense intelligence operations.
The Irregular Warfare Center Annual Symposium
The U.S. Department of War (DoW) is convening its irregular warfare community in Crystal City this August, and it is calling for industry partners.
Over 2.5 days, DoW and interagency leaders will lay out the priorities driving current mission needs and spending: cyber, information operations, cognitive warfare, critical infrastructure, and supply chain security.
ICF – Virtual Scheduled One-on-One Meetings
ICF will hold virtual one-on-one meetings with selected small businesses to explore potential teaming opportunities. SDVOSBs, Veteran-Owned, and other small businesses specializing in digital services, cybersecurity, communications, and research are encouraged to apply for consideration.
NSBGCA Webinar Series: How Small Businesses Can Turn Compliance into a Competitive Advantage
Many small-business owners believe regulations don’t apply to them and that compliance is only for big companies. They assume they can fly under the radar. But that’s simply not the case. While larger businesses face more complex requirements, small businesses still have legal obligations—and ignoring them can lead to serious consequences. In this session, we’ll debunk common compliance myths and explore why staying on top of filings, permits, and licenses is critical—no matter the size of your business.
Attendees will learn:
Whether you’re a solopreneur or running a fast-growing business, this session will give you actionable insights to turn compliance from a burden into a growth driver. Leave with a clear roadmap to ensure your business stays protected and is always ready to seize new opportunities. -
The real risks of non-compliance, from financial penalties and reputational damage to administrative dissolution, all because of overlooked requirements.
Why an annual “compliance check-up” is essential to identify gaps before they become costly problems.
How compliance can be a strategic advantage, opening doors to government contracts, geographic expansion, and new revenue streams.
The role of technology in simplifying compliance, including how modern tools provide real-time visibility, automate deadlines, and keep businesses in good standing.
VA OSDBU Office Hours (AST)
This interactive session connects small businesses with VA acquisition professionals for real-time feedback and guidance. Participants can ask detailed questions about solicitations, capability statements, and how to better align with VA’s needs.
VHA Procurement & Logistics Office (P&LO) – RPO West (NCO 20) Quarterly Virtual Business Opportunity Session
Hosted by VA Small Business Liaisons, this event highlights regional priorities and upcoming opportunities specific to NCO 20. SDVOSBs, VOSBs, and small businesses will gain insights into engaging with the VHA and identifying opportunities aligned with their capabilities.
NSBGCA Webinar Series: From Local Wins to Federal Success: Building a Government Contracting Growth Path
Breaking into federal contracting, and sustaining success requires more than just a certification. Small businesses that strategically sequence their growth from local and state opportunities to federal contracts have a clear competitive edge. This session will unpack a practical roadmap for leveraging certifications (8(a), WOSB, HUBZone, SDVOSB, MBE, and more) alongside targeted contract pursuits to build past performance, strengthen capabilities, and position for long-term wins.
Using the Crawl-Walk-Run-Fly model, our panel will share real-world examples of businesses that started with local government contracts, built strong teaming relationships, and scaled into multimillion-dollar federal opportunities. We’ll explore the evolving federal landscape, including current industry trends, SBA program updates, and high-growth areas like cybersecurity, AI, and infrastructure. Attendees will walk away with actionable strategies to identify the right opportunities, create winning proposals, and manage compliance for sustainable growth whether they’re just starting or ready to graduate to larger contracts.
Discover how to strategically grow your government contracting portfolio starting with local and state opportunities, then scaling to federal success. Learn how to leverage certifications, build past performance, and adapt to market trends to win more contracts.
Pittsburgh Hires Veterans – 2nd Annual National Hire A Veteran Day Job Fair
Come join Pittsburgh Hires Veterans at the Duquesne University Union Ballroom for a day dedicated to connecting veterans with employers. If your company is looking to hire top-tier veteran talent, this event is the perfect opportunity for you! Don't miss out on this chance to support our veterans and find top talent for your organization.
National Small Business Federal Contracting Summit | Virtual Summer 2026
This year’s summit will focus on critical Policy, Legislative, and Executive Updates shaping the federal marketplace. In addition to timely insights and expert-led discussions, the summit offers direct, face-to-face access to Federal Agency and Large Prime Contractor representatives, all through our convenient virtual platform.
This is a unique opportunity for your firm to explore new federal contracting opportunities, build relationships, and stay ahead—without the need to travel.
VHA Procurement & Logistics Office (P&LO) – RPO Central (NCO 15) Quarterly Virtual Business Opportunity Session
This session provides an overview of upcoming contracting opportunities with NCO 15. Attendees will learn about key NAICS areas, procurement priorities, and how SDVOSBs, VOSBs, and other small businesses can position themselves for success in the region.
2026 National HUBZone Conference
The 2026 National HUBZone Conference returns July 21–22 with powerful networking, focused matchmaking, and invaluable sessions and workshops designed to move small business firms forward and strengthen impact.
Using Technology to Reduce Risk and Strengthen Compliance in Nonprofit Finance Presented by GRF CPAs & Advisors
Manual processes remain a leading source of financial errors, control deficiencies, and audit findings in nonprofit organizations. While AI and automation are increasingly available, their value depends on how well they support accuracy, consistency, and compliance.
Presented from an auditor’s perspective, this session will examine how nonprofits can use technology to improve core financial processes, reduce reliance on manual workarounds, and strengthen internal controls. GRF CPAs & Advisors will share common risk areas, audit observations, and practical considerations for adopting technology in a controlled and compliant manner.
StraightTalk StraightAnswers: Episode 9 Featuring Scott Kiser, Director of Air Force Small Business Programs
Agenda
This episode features Mr. Scott Kiser, Director of the Air Force Office of Small Business Programs. Topics to be discussed include:
• How Air Force Buys
• Opportunity Areas for Veteran Businesses
• Early Engagement and Market Research at Air Force
• Air Force Innovation Efforts and Impact on Veteran and Small Businesses
• A live Q&A Opportunity for Participants
This event will be hybrid, with a maximum of 50 spots available for in-person registration. Register today to secure your spot!
VA OSDBU Office Hours (SOC)
This one-hour session offers direct engagement with Program Specialists and Contracting Officers. Participants will gain actionable guidance on solicitation expectations, capability statements, market research responses, and strategies to strengthen their competitive positioning.
GCP Webinar | Make Your Voice Heard
The proposed changes to the SBA's 8(a) Business Development Program could have a lasting impact on small businesses across the federal marketplace. As part of its ongoing advocacy efforts, GCP (GovContractPros) has prepared and submitted comments on the proposed rule.
Join GCP Wednesday, July 8, at 3:00 PM ET as we walk through the key points of GCP's recommendations, discuss what these changes could mean for current and prospective 8(a) participants, and invite your feedback.
They welcome your comments, concerns, and perspectives as we continue advocating on behalf of the small business community. Your Mics will be active.
18th Annual Industry Day & Small Business Conference
About the Conference
Join industry leaders, federal, state, and local agencies, and A/E/C professionals for two days of networking, business development, and collaborative opportunities designed to strengthen the small business community. They anticipate over 500 attendees at this year's conference!
July 7 & 8, 2026
Capital Turnaround (The Navy Yard)
700 M Street SE
Washington, DC 20003
VA OSDBU Office Hours (SOC)
These office hours provide direct engagement with VA acquisition professionals. Small businesses can receive actionable feedback, ask questions, and gain insights into preparing competitive responses and strengthening their presence in the federal marketplace.
Introduction to the Veteran Institute for Procurement (VIP) Training Programs
This webinar introduces Veteran-Owned businesses to VIP’s no-cost national training programs. Attendees will learn about VIP’s six courses designed to help Veterans compete, comply, and perform in federal contracting while building valuable networks.
Introduction to Veteran Institute for Procurement (VIP) Training Programs
VA OSDBU is pleased to announce registration for an upcoming virtual webinar introducing the Veteran Institute for Procurement (VIP) — a nationally recognized training resource for Veteran-Owned small businesses.
During this session, attendees will learn about:
• VIP’s six no‑cost training programs
• Program tools that help Veteran entrepreneurs compete and perform on federal contracts
• How more than 3,500 VIP graduates have secured over $50B in federal prime awards
• The advantages of participating in an official SBA resource partner program
Date: Wednesday, July 1, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM ET
Format: Virtual
Speaker: Mauricio Vera, Assistant National Director, VIP
2026 AMERICAN SMALL BUSINESS CONTRACTING SUMMIT
You are invited to attend the 3rd Annual American Small Business Contracting Summit on July 1 - 2, 2026 in Reston, VA, hosted by DLF.
The 2026 American Small Business Contracting Summit will provide you with the latest details on small business contracting opportunities with the U.S. Department of Defense, Prime Defense Contractors, and additional Federal Government Agencies.
The Federal Government is required to award 23% of Prime Contracts to Small Businesses, with almost $178.6 Billion in Federal Government Contracts awarded to Small Businesses in 2025 and another $86.4 Billion awarded to Small Businesses as Subcontractors to Prime Contractors. Register Today for this Important National Summit.
VA OSDBU Office Hours (AST)
This session offers small businesses direct access to Program Specialists and Contracting Officers. Participants can ask questions, gain real-time feedback, and receive guidance on improving capability statements, responding to market research, and navigating VA procurement.
Unlocking the Secret to Successful Debriefings
All the most successful federal contractors know that debriefings are a critical tool, which ultimately expands contracting opportunities. Debriefs allow contractors insight into the source selection program, which they can use to their advantage in future procurements. Want to learn the tricks of the trade? This session is for you!
State of Small Business Symposium
Small businesses are the backbone of the American economy, employing nearly half of all workers, supporting job creation, and building vibrant communities across the nation. Organizations like yours play a vital role in supporting their success. Join us for an important conversation that will uplift data, allow participants to share experiences, and highlight opportunities to support this crucial sector. Leave with fresh strategies, deeper insights, and new connections that will strengthen your work.
Federal Contracting Basics and Certifications for Small Businesses
Join the SBA to learn the essentials of federal contracting for small businesses. This event will cover the basics of navigating the federal contracting process, as well as the various certifications available to help your small business succeed in the government marketplace.
35th Annual Government Procurement Conference (GPC)
This is a national conference fostering business partnership between the Federal Government, its prime contractors and small, minority, service-disabled veteran-owned, veteran-owned, HUBZone and women-owned businesses. GPC is the largest and longest-running conference for small businesses looking to do business with the government and its prime contractors. This unique one-day event attracts participants from all over the United States including:
A wide variety of government attendees representing Federal, State and Local agencies
Prime Contractors with teaming and mentor-protégé opportunities
Hundreds of small businesses offering products and services from numerous industries