Sentinel Events

As national security and supply-chain demands continue to grow, small businesses play a critical role in delivering resilient, mission-ready solutions. The National Small Business Conference brings together government leaders, primes, and innovative small businesses to strengthen partnerships, share insights, and accelerate opportunity. Through education, networking, and focused engagement, the conference helps translate capability into impact across the defense industrial base.

In a time of rapidly evolving security challenges, collaboration across the defense and technology ecosystem is essential. WEST 2026 convenes military leaders, government decision-makers, and industry partners to examine the technologies, strategies, and partnerships shaping naval and joint force readiness. Through expert-led discussions, technical exchanges, and hands-on exhibits, WEST provides a forum to turn innovation into operational advantage.