A major international defense conference aimed at strengthening the U.S. defense supply chain and accelerating tech innovation is set to open Tuesday at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.
The three-day Defense Industrial Base Accelerator, known as DIBX 2026, runs Aug. 25 to 27. The global event brings together military leaders, government policymakers, defense executives, and startup founders to map out the future of national security manufacturing.
Key discussions will focus on commercializing next-generation military technologies and reinforcing fragile manufacturing supply lines.
$25 Million Pitch Summit
The marquee event of the gathering is a live pitch competition offering $25 million in funding. Tech companies selected from around the world will present solutions directly to defense officials and private investors.
In an unusual arrangement for defense contracting, chosen winners will receive funding within 24 hours of their presentations. The pitch competition targets technologies addressing vulnerabilities in critical raw materials, electronics manufacturing, and fuel distribution logistics.
Pentagon Access and Real-World Testing
Attendees will have direct access to senior Department of War acquisition officials and Pentagon leadership through structured one-on-one meetings.
The conference features a “Solutions Proving Ground” session, where participants can validate their technologies alongside military buyers working to clear supply bottlenecks in real time. Companies will also receive guidance on navigating core federal investment channels, including Manufacturing Technology (ManTech), Accelerating the Procurement and Fielding of Innovative Technologies (APFIT), and Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR/STTR) programs.
Global Attention
More than 60 defense tech firms specializing in artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity, and next-generation mobility will showcase solutions on the exhibition floor. DIBX 2026 is expected to draw widespread interest from global media as defense officials prioritize supply chain resilience.