Defence Procurement Conference
The Defence Procurement Conference connects small and medium-sized businesses with defence supply chains. Paul Cadman leads One Thousand Trades Group, the business behind this defence procurement event, so firms can meet manufacturers, Ministry of Defence representatives and policymakers.
First held 11 and 12 June 2026
Millennium Point, Birmingham
Free to attend in 2026
Why Paul Cadman backs defence procurement for SMEs
Defence is one of the UK’s biggest buyers. However, many small firms never bid. For example, they may think the process is too complex, or they may not know where to start. Paul Cadman sees defence procurement as a real growth route for Midlands firms. So the conference gives them direct access to the people who buy.
Government wants the same thing. In fact, the Ministry of Defence set up a Defence Office for Small Business Growth in January 2026. Its job is to help SMEs and start-ups into the defence supply chain. You can read more on the Procurement at MOD page.
January 2026
The Ministry of Defence opens a Defence Office for Small Business Growth.
Five steps for SMEs entering defence procurement
Every business is different, but these steps give most small firms a sound start.
Step 1
Understand the market. First, learn how the Ministry of Defence buys, and then find out which prime contractors work in your field.
Step 2
Register for opportunities. The Defence Sourcing Portal is free to use and lists MOD contract opportunities. Register there, and on the Central Digital Platform too.
Step 3
Meet the basics. For instance, many contracts ask for Cyber Essentials. The National Cyber Security Centre calls it the minimum standard of cyber security for organisations of all sizes.
Step 4
Join a supply chain. Suppliers of major contracts must advertise subcontracting opportunities on the Defence Sourcing Portal, so smaller firms can start as subcontractors.
Step 5
Bid, learn and improve. Ask for feedback after every bid, and then use it to sharpen the next one.
Who the conference is for
The conference brings together SMEs, defence manufacturers, government buyers and procurement leads. Rather than a large expo, it focuses on targeted networking, policy insight and direct access to procurement leaders.
In particular, it suits firms in manufacturing, engineering, technology and professional services. Even so, any business that wants to supply defence for the first time is welcome. Partners for the first conference included Make UK Defence and Starting Point Recruitment, while the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity was its charity partner.
Paul Cadman on defence procurement and regional growth
Defence spending can support jobs and skills across the region when local firms win a share of the work. That is why Paul Cadman wants more small firms to win defence procurement contracts.
Highlights and next steps
The first conference took place at Millennium Point in Birmingham on 11 and 12 June 2026. Ahead of the event, Armed Forces Minister Al Carns called it vital for small suppliers, as the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce reported. A second conference will take place in 2027, and the conference website will share the dates and registration details first.
The conference also sits alongside the Group’s other events, such as Life Sciences Week and The Innovation Awards. The awards even include defence among their sectors. Find out more about AI and innovation. You can also follow the latest updates in news and insights.
Take part in the next conference
Find dates, registration and sponsorship details on the official conference website, then plan your visit.