The 2025 Navy & Marine Corps Procurement Conference, one of the premier gatherings in the national defense landscape, convened July 29–30 at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott, drawing Pentagon officials, senior military leaders and top defense contractors to the heart of Hampton Roads.
Hosted by the American Defense Alliance, the two-day event provided an unmatched forum for collaboration, insight and innovation in one of the country’s most vital military regions.
With deep dives into shipbuilding, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and base-community partnerships, the conference offered an ideal environment to engage on cutting-edge topics, exchange ideas and uncover new contracting opportunities across the defense sector.
From small businesses to major prime contractors, attendees gained invaluable access to contracting officers and program managers, one-on-one matchmaking sessions, VIP networking opportunities and industry insights and procurement forecasts.
Opening the conference, Jared Chalk, Chief Business Development Officer for the Hampton Roads Alliance, delivered opening remarks underscoring Hampton Roads’ vital role in America’s defense supply chain.
“From shipbuilding and sustainment to emerging technology, energy and advanced manufacturing, Hampton Roads is where innovation meets readiness,” Chalk said. “This region continues to be a cornerstone for national security and military preparedness.”
The conversations started will help shape the future of military procurement and strengthen ties between government and industry ensuring warfighters are equipped with the best tools, technology and support.
The Hampton Roads Alliance remains focused on turning momentum from the event into long-term results. Over the coming weeks, the Alliance’s business development team will build on new relationships formed during the event, helping prospective companies explore expansion in the region and connecting existing firms with new opportunities.
By moving swiftly from conversation to execution, Hampton Roads is poised to transform connections into capital investment and reinforce the strength of the nation’s defense supply chain all right here, a region built for readiness.
