VETS26
The VETS26 Conference brings together Federal Procurement Decision Makers + Large Prime Contractors + Procurement Ready Small Business Leaders for 4 days of non-stop Networking, Training, and Teaming! 60+ content-rich training sessions. 200+ Vendors & Teaming Partners on the industry’s’ largest Exhibit Hall! Everything and everyone you need to Grow Your Business will be at the VETS26 Conference!
DHRA MISSION CONNECT: SMALL BUSINESS SUMMIT
Defense Human Resources Activity's Office of Small Business Programs (DHRA OSBP) is collaborating with the Virginia APEX Accelerator to bring you the DHRA Mission Connect Small Business Summit on June 3, 2026. This event will be the launch of DHRA OSBP's "Mission Connect" initiative, centered around the mission to connect small businesses to potential federal government contracting opportunities. You will hear from a dynamic morning keynote speaker, learn from comprehensive breakout sessions, and get a chance to "Meet the SMEs" in round table meetings after your impactful pre-scheduled one-on-one meetings with federal government agencies and large prime contractors. Join us at the DHRA Mission Connect: Small Business Summit and take the next step in scaling your business through federal procurement.
National Small Business Matchmaking Series
The National Small Business Matchmaking Series is a premier initiative designed to bridge the gap between local small businesses and the federal marketplace. Their mission is to empower American entrepreneurs by providing the tools and connections necessary to succeed in federal contracting.
Program Highlights
Direct Access: Engage one-on-one with the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and other federal procurement officials.
Contracting Growth: Gain exclusive insights into federal procurement pipelines and forecasted opportunities.
Strategic Networking: Increase your business’s visibility within USDOT direct procurement channels.
2026 Alaska Regional Conference
he 2026 Alaska Regional Conference in Anchorage, Alaska offers educational sessions, matchmaking, networking and resources for all small businesses including aspiring, current and graduate 8(a), HUBZone, SDVOSB, VOSB, SDB, WOSB, DBE, and teaming partnerships.
Alaska Golf Tournament Fundraiser
We hope you will extend your networking opportunities and join us on June 11, 2026 at Anchorage Golf Course.
Registration and a light breakfast begin at 7:00am with a shotgun start at 8:00am. Our onsite lunch includes wine, spirits, and local Alaskan beer.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
2026 Navy & Marine Corps Procurement Conference
This is a premier opportunity to engage directly with decision-makers from the Pentagon, Navy and Marine Corps Commands, and leading Prime Defense Contractors. Don't miss your chance to network with Defense Industry Leaders and Government Program Managers and Contracting Officers and gain critical information on current Defense spending plans and procurement priorities.
2026 National Energy, Technology, Environmental Small Business Summit
Join the Energy, Technology and Environmental Business Association (ETEBA) just outside of Denver, Colorado at the Gaylord Rockies Resort for the National Small Business Summit, where business opportunities will be presented from leadership in the energy, technology, and environmental sectors across the United States. Partners from National Laboratories, federal cleanup and production sites, and industry businesses will bring the latest forecasted opportunities directly to small businesses eager to grow their energy portfolio. Included will be ample opportunities for businesses to network including a top tier exhibit hall, receptions, and matchmaking. This is a don’t miss opportunity presented by ETEBA and partners.
2026 Cyber Summit
Cyber permeates all aspects of the federal government today, and its expansion is forecasted to continue. POC invites cybersecurity experts and thought leaders to discuss the role of cyber in government, military and industry in the digital age.
WOSB/EDWOSB Overview and Certification Process
Join the U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce for an overview of the Women-Owned Small Business Federal Contracting Program. This meeting will provide an overview of the WOSB/EDWOSB program, a detailed review of the USWCC WOSB/EDWOSB certification process, the next steps to ensure access to our fair share of federal contracts and a walk-through of the USWCC Third-Party Certification process.
SOF Week 2026
At its core, SOF Week is about connection and alignment. It provides a trusted environment where operational requirements, emerging technologies, and strategic priorities come together in one place. Through briefings, demonstrations, exhibits, and networking, the event accelerates conversations that directly impact capability development and mission success.
How to Get Your Cloud/Software Small Business on the GSA Schedule
How to Get Your Cloud/Software Small Business on the GSA Schedule
MWMCA's 23rd Annual 2026 Spring Breakfast Meeting & Business Showcase Expo
The 23rd Annual 2026 Spring Breakfast Meeting/Business Showcase Expo has two (2) components:
1. Spring Breakfast/Awards Program (8:30am - 10:00am) (SELECT HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS)
Enjoy a sit-down hot breakfast with beverages
Top Companies and Government Agencies will be honored
Network with representatives from leading companies
2. Business Showcase Expo (7:30am - 12:30pm) (SELECT HERE FOR FREE TICKETS)
Over 80 prime and government entities will showcase their products/services/projects/business opportunities and share information with small, minority, and women-owned firms.
How to Do Business with Federal Government Agencies
How to Do Business with Federal Government Agencies
This workshop will provide instruction on how to connect your product or service to opportunities and keys to differentiating your business from the competition through:
Understanding how the federal government buys goods and services
Familiarizing yourself with FARs (Federal Acquisition Regulations)
Identifying who’s buying what you are selling
Ensuring your government database registrations are complete, up-to-date, and active
Exploring small business assistance certifications
Creating and tailoring capability statements for your target markets
Building relationships
Responding to solicitations
National Small Business Week
For more than 60 years, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has celebrated National Small Business Week (NSBW), which acknowledges the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners. National Small Business Week 2026 will take place May 3-9, and SBA will officially recognize their hard work, ingenuity, dedication, and their contributions to the economy.
Exclusive Happy Hour Following Sage Future 2026 Presented by GRF CPAs & Advisors and Ramp
After a full day of sessions and networking, unwind and raise a glass with the GRF team at Wine Down, just a five-minute walk from the Moscone Center. Enjoy drinks, appetizers, and great conversation with colleagues and friends in a relaxed setting.
Spaces are limited — reserve your spot today and join us as we celebrate connection, collaboration, and the future of finance.
Financial Readiness: FINVET Essentials for Veteran Entrepreneurs
Unlock the power of financial wellness for Veterans—join our exclusive training session spotlighting the FINVET program from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Explore the powerful link between financial health and mental well-being, and discover the latest research, strategies, and resources featured on the FINVET website. Gain actionable insights into how financial challenges impact Veterans, and leave equipped with proven tools and support systems to help Veterans and their families thrive.
Don't miss this chance to expand your expertise and strengthen your financial literacy. Secure your spot today and join a community devoted to advancing financial wellness for those who have served.
Financial Readiness: FINVET Essentials for Veteran Entrepreneurs
Unlock the power of financial wellness for Veterans—join their exclusive training session spotlighting the FINVET program from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Explore the powerful link between financial health and mental well-being, and discover the latest research, strategies, and resources featured on the FINVET website. Gain actionable insights into how financial challenges impact Veterans, and leave equipped with proven tools and support systems to help Veterans and their families thrive.
Impact Summit 2026: Advancing Sustainability and Impact
This program is designed for leaders responsible for strategy, operations, financial accounting, sustainability, impact measurement, risk management, internal audit, compliance, and HR/people operations. It is ideal for purpose-driven organizations and companies – including nonprofits, government contractors, and privately held businesses – seeking to advance their sustainability goals, strengthen organizational integrity, and enhance both internal and external reporting.
In-Person (UK) - Optimize26
Optimize26 goes beyond theory. With 20+ expert speakers, you’ll experience:
Real-world case studies from practitioners who’ve been in the trenches
Actionable frameworks that reflect how bids are actually won today
Dedicated networking time to connect with peers facing the same high-stakes challenges
Learn from the best. Connect with your community. Leave with strategies you can use immediately.
WOSB/EDWOSB Overview and Certification Process 04/15/26
Join the U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce for an overview of the Women-Owned Small Business Federal Contracting Program. This meeting will provide an overview of the WOSB/EDWOSB program, a detailed review of the USWCC WOSB/EDWOSB certification process, the next steps to ensure access to their fair share of federal contracts and a walk-through of the USWCC Third-Party Certification process.
In-Person (US) Optimize25
Optimize26 goes beyond theory. With 20+ expert speakers, you’ll experience:
Real-world case studies from practitioners who’ve been in the trenches
Actionable frameworks that reflect how bids are actually won today
Dedicated networking time to connect with peers facing the same high-stakes challenges
Learn from the best. Connect with your community. Leave with strategies you can use immediately.
SBA Contracting Series: HUB Zone Certification
Join the SBA Series training on HUBZone (Historically Underutilized Business Zone) Certification to learn how businesses located in historically underutilized areas can qualify for special contracting opportunities. This session will cover HUBZone program requirements, benefits, the application process, and tips for maintaining certification.
Attendees will learn how to:
Determine if their business is eligible for HUBZone certification
Understand federal set-aside opportunities for HUBZone-certified firms
Maintain compliance and recertification requirements
For more information, please contact Stephanie Trevino at (361) 698-1034 or email at snyberg@delmar.edu
Virtual Day - Optimize26
Optimize26 goes beyond theory. With 20+ expert speakers, you’ll experience:
Real-world case studies from practitioners who’ve been in the trenches
Actionable frameworks that reflect how bids are actually won today
Dedicated networking time to connect with peers facing the same high-stakes challenges
Learn from the best. Connect with your community. Leave with strategies you can use immediately.
Federal Contracting: Women-Owned Small Business Certification
Join the SBA for this informative SBA Contracting training to learn about key federal certification programs that can help you access set-aside contracts and new business opportunities.
This session will cover the Federal Contracting Certification for Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) & Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business (EDWOSB). Participants will learn eligibility requirements, application steps, benefits of each program, and how these certifications can help your business compete in the federal marketplace.
Woman-Owned Small Business Certification
Learn about program benefits and eligibility
Connect with Resource Partners
Network with other Small Business Owners
Whether you’re new to government contracting or looking to grow your business, this training will provide practical guidance and resources to help you get started.
For more information, please contact Marcus Villagran at (956) 572-1806 or email at marcus.villagran@sba.gov
How to Build an Indirect Rate for Nonprofits Under the Uniform Guidance Presented by GRF CPAs & Advisors and Thompson Grants
This webinar is presented in collaboration with Thompson Grants.
Understanding indirect costs is key to achieving full cost recovery and sustainable grant management — yet many organizations struggle to navigate the complex requirements involved. This session, led by Paul Calabrese, Principal at GRF CPAs & Advisors, provides a step-by-step overview of how to develop and apply an indirect cost rate under the Uniform Guidance (2 C.F.R. Part 200). Participants will explore how to identify direct versus indirect costs, the principles behind cost allocation, and how to develop a compliant indirect rate structure tailored to their organization’s operations and funding sources.
In addition, attendees will learn practical strategies for documenting costs, preparing supporting materials for rate negotiations, and avoiding common pitfalls that can lead to audit findings or disallowed costs. Whether you’re new to grant accounting or looking to refine your organization’s indirect cost practices, this session will equip you with the tools and confidence to recover your fair share of administrative resources.
Learning Objectives:
Understand the fundamentals of direct and indirect costs under the Uniform Guidance
Explore the basic mechanics of indirect rate calculation and application
Identify the documentation and data needed to prepare an indirect cost rate proposal
Examine the four methods of allocating indirect costs and when to apply each
Learn best practices for compliance, recordkeeping, and communication with federal agencies
Who Should Attend:
This webinar is designed for public accountants, consultants, government contractors, and recipients of federal grants and cooperative agreements, including nonprofits, institutions of higher education, hospitals, and federal, state, local, and tribal governments. It will be especially valuable for Directors of Finance, Controllers, CFOs, COOs, Grants Managers or Administrators, and staff in development, compliance, and budgeting roles.
Washington, D.C. Small Business Conference
Small Business Expo DC is more than an event. It’s a catalyst for innovation and success in the heart of the nation’s capital. Attendees enjoy free workshops, panel discussions, speed networking opportunities, and more. You’ll shop for business resources on the trade show floor, attend Q&A sessions, and build your DC-area network.
The business event in DC is at the Charles E. Smith Center, 600 22nd St NW, Washington, DC 20052. This year, the expo will take place on April 8, 2026, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm EST.
Open for Business: Department of The Navy Industry Showcase at Sea-Air-Space
Do you believe your company possesses the next big product, tool, or idea for the Department of the Navy? Small businesses are invited to apply and compete for a chance to appear on stage before a panel of experts from across the Department of the Navy. Your submission will undergo review by the Department of the Navy (DON) Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP). Compete for the opportunity to present your case live and in person for the 4th annual DON Industry Showcase at Sea Air Space!
CMMC Assessments and C3PAOs: Preparing for Evolving Governance
As the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) program transitions from its early rollout phase to full enforcement, the role of Certified Third-Party Assessment Organizations (C3PAOs) is under increasing scrutiny. Governance expectations are shifting, assessor variability remains a challenge, and contractors face growing pressure to prepare for consistent, fair, and predictable assessments.
Join NeoSystems, Forvis Mazars, and CyberNINES for a webinar panel discussion that will provide a reality check on where things stand today and explore what’s next for the C3PAO community and the broader ecosystem. Industry experts will share candid observations, concerns, and lessons learned from the front lines of CMMC assessments. We’ll examine the implications of tighter governance, the operational maturity required of C3PAOs, and what contractors need to know to stay ahead.
Key Discussion Points:
Transition from “startup mode” to a regulated ecosystem
Increased scrutiny on assessor consistency and accountability
Variability in interpretation of NIST SP 800-171 practices and evidence thresholds
Subjectivity in Level 2 boundary determinations
Operational readiness of C3PAOs under new oversight
Risks and benefits of stronger governance: Does it protect the ecosystem or constrain expertise?
Register Today!
Sandia National Laboratories Annual Small Business Opportunities Fair
Join Sandia National Laboratories for the Annual Small Business Opportunities Fair at Sandia National Laboratories! This event offers a unique chance to connect, share insights, and participate in breakout sessions, an expo hall, and networking opportunities. Don’t miss out—register today to secure your spot!
Reading the Tea Leaves: What Trump Administration Contracting Trends Are Telling Small Businesses About 2026
Monthly Webinar Series
The first year of the Trump Administration has introduced a clear reset in the federal contracting market, reshaping agency priorities, procurement behavior, and small business utilization in ways that demand attention. In this webinar, Kevin Plexico, SVP of Information Solutions at Deltek, delivers a data-driven review of how federal spending with small businesses has shifted, with a focused look at performance across key socioeconomic programs—including 8(a), SDVOSB, WOSB, and HUBZone—and where momentum is building or eroding. Looking ahead, the session will highlight what early indicators suggest for 2026 and outline practical strategies small businesses should consider now to adapt, compete, and capitalize in a market defined by change, opportunity, and urgency.
2026 Global Force Symposium and Exposition
The AUSA Global Force Symposium & Exposition is the Association of the U.S. Army's premier three-day event dedicated to advancing the Total Army's modernization through synergistic collaboration between military, industry, and academia. Anchored in the Army's Modernization Strategy, Global Force is a vital forum for exploring how the Army evolves to remain Agile, Adaptive, and Lethal in an era of multi-domain challenges.
Phoenix Challenge 2026
The United States Department of War, Office of Information Operations Policy (OIOP) welcomes you to Phoenix Challenge® 2026, to be held at the Crystal Gateway Marriott, March 23-25, 2026.
Building on the momentum from Phoenix Challenge® 2025 in London, this year's event will explore "Information Operations: Evolving for Strategic Dominance." They will delve into integrating capabilities, forging alliances, and executing with precision to achieve a decisive advantage in the information domain.
They invite leaders and professionals from government, private industry, and academia across all cognitive and technical information specialties to attend and participate in this unique opportunity for collaboration and advancement.
Non-Traditional Contracting Methods: What Small Businesses Need to Know
Monthly Webinar Series
Most small businesses lose federal opportunities not because they aren't qualified, but because they are only looking through one window while the door is wide open somewhere else. Join us on Wednesday, March 18 at 2 PM EDT / 1 PM CDT with Angela Webb, President of the GovCon Xcelerator & Compliance SBU at Strategic Growth Partners, as she breaks down the alternative acquisition routes that are helping small businesses compete and win in today's federal space.
What You'll Learn:
‣ How to access non-traditional contract pathways like OTAs, BAAs, CSOs, and more
‣ How to align your business with federal priorities to open new doors
‣ Strategic approaches to accelerate requirements beyond the traditional RFP cycle
‣ What federal agencies need from small business partners right now
‣ Key industries where non-traditional contracts are creating new opportunities
Alliance Northwest 2026
The 40th Annual Alliance Northwest features an exhibit hall, high-quality workshops and pre-scheduled one-on-one meetings between government representatives, primes, and businesses. Hosted by Thurston Economic Development Council, home of APEX ACCELERATORS, Alliance Northwest has a strong history of providing quality outreach events for government representatives to connect with small and diverse businesses.
2026 Air Force Outlook Summit
The 2026 Air Force Outlook Summit is one of the Top National Defense Contracting Events of 2026! The Summit features Members of Congress, Pentagon Officials, Multiple Air Force Commands, Multiple Air Force Bases, Military Contracting Officers, Financing Sources, Prime Contractors and Small Business Leaders nationwide. Attending the 2026 Air Force Contracting Summit will provide Defense Contractors, Subcontractors, and Small Businesses with the latest information on:
Air Force FY2026 Budget - Major Procurement Developments
Air Force Mission & Contracting Priorities for Drones & Anti-Drone Technology, AI, Special Operations, Aircraft, Air Warfare, Armaments, Avionics, Logistics, Facilities, Energy, Construction, Engineering, Technology, Cyber, Space, and more
Air Force 'Base of the Future' and Energy Resilience Opportunities
Air Force Command Mission & Contracting Priorities
Air Force and Department of Defense Contracting Priorities
Multi-Year Contract Vehicles - Prime Contractor & Small Business Tracks
New Contracting Opportunities with Foreign Military Sales (FMS)
OTA's and Other Innovation Acquisition Strategies and Programs
New Contracting Opportunities for Prime Defense Contractors & Subcontractors
New Pentagon and Air Force Cyber Protection/CMMC Strategies
U.S. Space Force Developments & Contracting Priorities
Teaming, Subcontracting & Mentor Protégé Opportunities
Public and Private Financing Sources
Small Business Resources
Matchmaking Sessions, featuring Government Agencies and Prime Contractors