Defense Industry Day
More details to come. Limited capacity.
June 17 | Day 2: Full-Day Conference (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
Embassy Suites Chicago – Naperville
Defense Industry Day is a premier gathering designed to spark collaboration, strengthen industry–government partnerships, and accelerate innovation across the rapidly expanding Department of Defense (DoD) manufacturing sector. The Summit convenes leading manufacturers, emerging suppliers, defense experts, and technology innovators to explore new opportunities, share insights, and advance solutions that strengthen national defense readiness and supply-chain resilience.
This event is designed for manufacturers seeking to deepen their engagement in the supply chain. Due to expected demand, priority for seating will be given to manufacturing leaders. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for organizations interested in supporting and engaging with the event.
What to Expect:
Defense Supply Chain Panel
Hear directly from industry leaders across the defense supply chain on priorities, supplier expectations, and opportunities for manufacturers to grow and compete.
Expert Presentations & Breakout Sessions
Learn about key topics including defense contracting readiness, cybersecurity requirements, certifications, and how manufacturers can enter or grow in the defense market.
Supplier Matchmaking & Networking
Connect with primes, integrators, and fellow manufacturers during structured networking designed to spark partnerships and new business opportunities.
Manufacturing Facility Tour
Kick off the event with an exclusive tour of a leading Illinois manufacturer supporting the defense industry.
Agenda
Day 1: Manufacturing Facility Tour (June 16)
Start the event with a tour of a leading manufacturing facility in the Chicagoland area. This experience will provide a look at operations and processes in action, along with an opportunity to connect with peers. Additional details, including location and logistics, will be shared soon.
Important Note: Capacity is limited for Day 1, please indicate your interest on the registration form to be considered. Expressing interest does not guarantee attendance.
June 17 | Day 2: Full-Day Conference
Join us for a full day of insights, collaboration, and connection across the defense manufacturing ecosystem. The conference will feature industry perspectives, educational sessions, and networking opportunities designed to help manufacturers better understand the defense landscape, strengthen partnerships, and identify opportunities for growth.
Why Sponsor Defense Industry Day?
Position your brand at the forefront of strengthening the Midwest defense supply chain.
Direct Access to Qualified Decision-Makers
Get meaningful exposure to defense manufacturers, prime contractors, government representatives, and supply chain leaders in one room.
Strategic Brand Positioning
Become an industry leader and partner when you align your organization with innovation, national defense readiness, and advanced manufacturing.
Measurable Business Development Opportunities
Through networking and programming visibility, you unlock potential contracts, collaborations, and long-term pipeline growth.
Sponsorship Levels
The VIP Sponsor receives top-tier visibility by hosting the VIP Reception on Day 1.
- • Host of the VIP Reception: Includes a brief welcome message, branded signage, and prominent recognition at the Day 1 Manufacturing Immersion Tour + VIP Reception.
- • 5 VIP Passes for Day 1 Manufacturing Immersion Tour + VIP Reception
- • 2 complimentary registrations for Day 2
- • Prime booth placement for Day 2
The Premier Sponsor receives the highest level of visibility and engagement with exclusive opportunities to connect with attendees and establish thought leadership.
- • Sponsor Presentation Session: A dedicated session during the Sponsor Engagement Block to highlight capabilities, innovations, or success stories.
- • Exclusive IMEC Hosted Webinar: Feature your brand beyond Defense Industry Day
- • Full-page spotlight feature
- • 2 VIP Passes for Day 1 Manufacturing Immersion Tour + VIP Reception
- • 2 complimentary registrations for Day 2
- • Prime booth placement for Day 2
- • Most prominent logo placement on event webpage, printed program, on-site signage, and email campaigns
- • Recognition during opening remarks
- • Premium social media spotlight
Platinum sponsors gain strong brand exposure and targeted engagement opportunities during the event.
- • Invitation to give a 1–2 minute welcome message before an IMEC webinar
- • Half-page spotlight feature
- • 2 VIP Passes for Day 1 Manufacturing Immersion Tour + VIP Reception
- • 2 complimentary registrations for Day 2
- • Priority booth placement for Day 2 (after Premium Sponsors)
- • High visibility logo placement in priority sponsor sections across key event and promotional materials
- • Recognition on general session slides
- • Recognition during opening remarks
- • Social media thank-you feature
Gold sponsors participate actively in the expo and receive enhanced visibility throughout the event.
- • Quarter-page spotlight feature
- • 2 VIP Passes for Day 1 Manufacturing Immersion Tour + VIP Reception
- • 2 complimentary registrations for Day 2
- • Exhibitor booth included for Day 2
- • Elevated logo placement in designated sponsor sections across event materials
- • Social media thank-you post
The Meal Sponsor is featured throughout the Lunch Program.
- • “Meal Sponsored By ___” branding displayed throughout the lunch session
- • Dedicated recognition slide + verbal acknowledgment during the lunch program
- • Elevated logo placement in designated sections across event materials
- • Branded table signage on all lunch tables
- • Exhibitor booth included for Day 2
- • 2 VIP Passes for Day 1 Manufacturing Immersion Tour + VIP Reception
- • 2 complimentary registrations for Day 2
A strong, accessible option for small and mid-sized manufacturers or suppliers.
- • 1 VIP Pass to VIP Reception
- • 1 complimentary registration for Day 2
- • Exhibitor booth included for Day 2
- • Logo recognition across event materials
- • Social media thank-you post
Ideal for small firms or community partners wanting a presence at the event.
- • Logo recognition displayed in supporting sponsor sections across event materials and the event webpage
- • Recognition on general session slides