Coffee Calls

About. North Carolina is the “Frontline of the Future” supporting the Nation’s defense and homeland security to provide technological overmatch in a changing joint and multi-domain operational environment. Each week DEFTECH shares upcoming opportunities highlighting the rapidly changing innovation and research and development (R&D) landscape.

The DEFTECH Team invites you to join us each Friday for an informal Coffee Call. Share ideas, discuss innovation and technology challenges, and network with like-minded professionals. Learn about federal and Department of Defense (DoD) technology requirements, business opportunities, and how your innovations can help solve national security problems. The sessions include briefings from government agencies and North Carolina Innovation Ecosystem partners. 

When. Friday mornings from 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. 

  • 8:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. – Receive updates on ongoing defense and industry events, 
  • ​​8:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. – Opportunity updates highlighting the rapidly changing federal and DoD technology landscape
  • 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. – Learn about federal and DoD technology requirements and business opportunities

2025 Coffee Call Webinar Links

January 31, 2025. MBSE in Defense: Practical Applications and Overview
Virtual only
Register Here!

About this session:
This session will explore the transformative role of Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) across design, development, manufacturing, and operations, and provide an overview of DoDI 5000.97 requirements for defense contractors. Whether you’re new to MBSE or looking to deepen your understanding of defense policies, this engaging discussion will highlight practical applications, workforce development opportunities, and actionable insights to help your organization stay competitive in the defense innovation ecosystem.

January 24, 2025. Igniting Innovation: SBA’s Impact on Small Businesses and Warfighters
Virtual only
Register Here!

About this session:
We’re excited to welcome the Small Business Administration (SBA) to share an invaluable overview of their mission to empower small businesses and drive defense innovation. This session will include a 101-level introduction to SBA’s objectives and focus areas, practical guidance on how businesses and innovators can engage with SBA’s programs, and an in-depth look at MySBA Certifications, the ultimate resource for small business certifications. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how SBA supports North Carolina innovators, helping them connect with federal initiatives, catalyze innovation, and deliver capabilities that directly benefit our Warfighters.

January 17, 2025. Driving Global Growth Through Defense Innovation
Virtual and in-person options available
Register Here!

About this session:
The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) strengthens national security by rapidly integrating cutting-edge commercial technologies into the military, fostering collaboration between the Department of Defense (DoD) and private sector innovators, and expanding the national security ecosystem. Discover how the DIU’s ​​projects across multiple domains in artificial intelligence, autonomy, cybersecurity, human systems, and space are transforming the future of defense. 

January 10, 2025. Unlocking Innovation: Shaping the Future of Health and Safety with MTEC
Virtual only
Register Here!

About this session:
Join us to learn about the Medical Technology Enterprise Consortium (MTEC). Learn how MTEC collaborates with the US Department of Defense to advance groundbreaking technologies that enhance health and safety. In this session, you will hear from Rick Satcher as he provides an overview of MTEC’s mission and activities and share insights on upcoming opportunities and announcements. 

January 3, 2025. A Year in Review and Strategic Direction for 2025
Virtual only
Register Here!

About this session:

  • Get the latest updates on federal technology opportunities and initiatives.
  • Learn about resources available to support innovators and small businesses.
  • Presentation of DEFTECH’s goals and priorities for 2025​​​​​​
  • Key initiatives and events planned for the year

December 13, 2024. DEFTECH Christmas Special Coffee Call
Register Here!

About this session:

  • Learn about upcoming opportunities and trends in federal and DoD technologies
  • Hear from DoD representatives on key challenges and priorities for 2025
  • Gain insights into emerging needs and opportunities for innovators to align their solutions with defense objectives

December 6, 2024. Unlocking Opportunities with APFIT: Supporting Defense Priorities Through Innovation
Register Here!

About this session:

  • Gain an in-depth understanding of the Accelerate the Procurement and Fielding of Innovative Technologies (APFIT) program objectives
  • Learn about basic eligibility requirements and the submission process
  • Hear success stories of small businesses contributing to defense priorities
  • Discover how North Carolina innovators can engage with APFIT to drive impactful solutions