Federal and State Leaders to Convene in Frederick for 21st Annual SMART PROC GovCon

Conference brings together defense, public health, technology, and business leaders to advance procurement opportunities, innovation, and regional economic growth

FREDERICK, Md., Nov. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Senior federal and state officials, industry executives, and small business leaders will convene November 18–19 at the Frederick Event Center for the 21^st Annual SMART PROC GovCon Procurement Conference & Expo, bringing together leadership from across government and industry to discuss emerging priorities, future procurement requirements, and opportunities for collaboration.

Hosted by Strengthening the Mid-Atlantic Region for Tomorrow (SMART), the conference connects federal and state agencies with businesses, research institutions, and innovators supporting national security, public health, infrastructure, healthcare, and emerging technologies. The program features two keynote plenary sessions, 14 breakout sessions, and more than 75 confirmed speakers representing government, industry, and academia.

"SMART PROC GovCon uniquely brings both defense and civilian agencies together with industry to turn conversations into meaningful partnerships for small business," said Debbie Burrell, SMART Board Chair and Conference Chair. "Our region is home to extraordinary federal assets, research institutions, and innovative businesses. By connecting government priorities with industry capabilities, we're strengthening the relationships that drive innovation, create opportunities for small businesses, and support economic growth throughout the Mid-Atlantic."

The conference opens with a fireside chat featuring The Honorable Richard F. Topping, Assistant Secretary for Management and Chief Financial Officer, Department of Veterans Affairs, and The Honorable Sean O'Keefe, Deputy Under Secretary of War for Personnel and Readiness. Their discussion will examine the future of healthcare infrastructure and the continuum of care for servicemembers and veterans.

Additional featured speakers include Dr. Matthew Clark, Defense Health Agency; Dr. Eric Moore and Ms. Kimberly Ploskonka, U.S. Army Capabilities and Development Command leadership; Dr. Gary Disbrow, Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA); Ms. Arlene Joyner, Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR); Ms. Sharon James, U.S. Department of State; Ms. Laura Cameron, General Services Administration (GSA); and Mr. Steve Rice, Maryland Department of Commerce.

Sessions will address military readiness, public health emergency preparedness, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, healthcare infrastructure, federal acquisition, and emerging technology development. Dedicated small business programming will provide insight into agency requirements, contracting strategies, non-dilutive funding, and opportunities to engage with federal program and procurement officials.

With participation from federal installations and agencies throughout the Mid-Atlantic, including Fort Detrick, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Fort Meade, and Naval Air Station Patuxent River, SMART PROC GovCon also highlights the region's role in supporting national missions and strengthening the nation's research, technology, and industrial capabilities.

With more than 25 exhibitors and sponsors showcasing capabilities across defense, healthcare, technology, and professional services, SMART PROC GovCon offers opportunities to connect with government decision-makers, discover emerging innovations, and build strategic partnerships. A networking reception on November 18 from 4-6pm will provide additional opportunities for attendees, exhibitors, and government officials to engage.

SMART PROC GovCon 2026 takes place November 18 from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and November 19 from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Frederick Event Center, 5400 Holiday Drive, Frederick, Maryland. Registration opens at 7:00 a.m. each day, with onsite registration available.

For conference information, the agenda, and registration, visit https://www.smartprocgovcon.com.

The meeting is sponsored by the Strengthening the Mid-Atlantic Region for Tomorrow (SMART). The SMART organization 501c3 executes the vision of the SMART Congressional Initiative by providing a membership organization promoting tech enterprise in the region. The conference goal is to build stronger relationships, provide teaming partnerships and discuss upcoming procurement forecasts among industry, community, government, and academia.

SOURCE SMART