Raleigh, NC, March 26,2026 – The North Carolina Military Business Center (NCMBC) will host the Federal and Defense Textile and Tactical Equipment Summit (FEDTEX) on May 19 – 20, 2026 in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Hosted by the Offices of U.S. Senator Thom Tillis and U.S. Senator Ted Budd, and the NCMBC, FEDTEX connects the U.S. Department of Defense and federal agency clothing and individual equipment buyers directly with U.S. textile manufacturers, supply chain partners, cut-and-sew contractors, R&D organizations, testing laboratories, and academic institutions.
This program reflects the mission to strengthen the domestic supply chain, increase industry engagement with federal and defense agencies, and support the evolving requirements of the modern warfighter. Attendees will hear from leaders in government, industry, and academia to provide critical updates on defense textile and tactical equipment priorities. Guest general session speakers include:
- North Carolina Secretary of State, Elaine Marshall
- Brigadier General Sean P. Kelly, Commander, Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support
- David Hinks, Ph.D., Dean of the Wilson College of Textiles, Cone Mills Distinguished Professor of Textile Chemistry, North Carolina State University
- David L. Costello, Executive Director, Warrior Protection & Readiness Coalition
- Kim Glas, President & CEO, National Council of Textile Organizations
- Nicole Cervi, Economist, Wells Fargo & Company
Why Attend FEDTEX 2026?
FEDTEX offers direct access to federal buyers and decision-makers to help businesses in the defense textile and tactical equipment marketplace. Key sessions include:
- Selling to the Federal Government: Learn how to enter and scale in the federal marketplace, understanding purchasing pathways from micro-purchases to large contracts which is critical for companies new to government sales.
- Mastering DoD Proposal Writing: Build stronger, competitive proposals tailored to defense requirements
- Free Tools for Federal Contracting Success: Identify real opportunities using platforms including SAM.gov and USA Spending
- Leveraging DLA’s $33B TLS Contract: Gain insight into one of DLA’s primary procurement vehicles and how to position your products for these pathways
- SBIR/STTR Funding for Textile Innovation: Access non-dilutive funding to advance new technologies and materials; reducing risk while accelerating innovation.
- Berry Amendment & Legislative Updates: Understand compliance requirements and policy changes that directly impact sourcing decisions and eligibility for DoD contracts.
- DLA Supply Chain Insights: Hear directly from DLA executives on demand forecasts, supply chain gaps, and re-bid opportunities—giving you a clearer picture of where to compete.
- Smart Textiles & NC DMCSP Innovation: Explore emerging technologies in wearable systems and advanced materials
- AI & Robotics in Manufacturing: Learn how automation can improve efficiency, consistency, and surge capacity; addressing one of DLA’s biggest concerns with suppliers.
- Sustainability & Recycling Innovations: Understand how new technologies and regulations are shaping sustainability and how to turn compliance into competitive advantage.
- Workforce Development Strategies: Tackle one of the industry’s biggest challenges: attracting, training, and retaining a skilled workforce in a rapidly evolving environment.
- PFAS Regulations & Alternatives: Stay ahead of increasing regulatory pressure and learn about viable alternatives that are critical for long-term product compliance.
- AbilityOne & Federal Programs: Discover how to engage with unique procurement channels that can provide stable, mission-driven business opportunities.
- Military Service Panels: Engage directly with Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps, representatives to understand current needs, future programs, and procurement priorities.
Limited Exhibitor Opportunities Available
A limited number of exhibit spaces remain, offering a valuable opportunity to showcase your textile innovations, capabilities, and products directly to federal buyers and industry leaders. Early commitment is strongly encouraged.
Be Part of the Future of Defense Textiles
Whether you’re a manufacturer, supplier, innovator, or researcher, FEDTEX 2026 provides an unmatched opportunity for business, industry, and academia to engage directly with federal buyers, understand upcoming procurement needs and participate in discussions shaping the future of US defense textiles and tactical equipment.
For more information contact Lee Moritz, Regional Program Manager, NCMBC or visit the FEDTEX website for registration and additional information: https://fedtex.ncmbc.us/.