Supplier matchmaking is a key component of Defense Industry Day, offering manufacturers the opportunity to connect directly with defense buyers and prime contractors, but success depends on preparation.
Join IMEC and the Illinois APEX Accelerator for a pre-event webinar designed to help you understand how the matchmaking process works and how to prepare effectively. IMEC will walk through the structure of the event, key timelines, and what’s required to participate, while APEX will provide guidance on how to position your company, strengthen your capability statement, and confidently engage in one-on-one meetings with defense buyers.
Whether you are new to the Defense Industrial Base or looking to expand your presence, this session will equip you with the insights and strategies needed to make the most of your matchmaking experience and turn connections into real opportunities.
Presenter
Chris Cooks
Director, Illinois APEX Accelerator at the Southland Development Authority
Christopher Cooks serves as the Director of the Illinois APEX Accelerator at the Southland Development Authority, where he leads efforts to help small and mid-sized businesses access and compete for government contracting opportunities. With a strong background in business development, procurement, and supplier diversity, he is dedicated to strengthening the regional economy by equipping local companies with the tools, knowledge, and connections they need to succeed in the federal, state, and local contracting marketplace.
Under his leadership, the Illinois APEX Accelerator provides technical assistance, training, and strategic guidance to businesses across industries, ensuring they are positioned to grow, scale, and win government contracts. Christopher is passionate about empowering entrepreneurs, expanding opportunities for disadvantaged and minority-owned firms, and fostering long-term economic growth in the Southland and beyond.
Ian Quan
Center Director at Chinese Mutual Aid Association, Apex Accelerator
Mr. Ian Quan recently joined the APEX Accelerator program as the Center Director at Chinese Mutual Aid Association. He has extensive and direct experience on the small business side of government contracting, as he owned his own businesses and worked for all small businesses his whole career. He is well practiced on the full spectrum of government contracting from the many registrations and contract vehicles to supplier and prime contractor
relationships/partnerships to full bid preparation.
Prior to joining the Illinois APEX Accelerator program, Ian has over 20 years of government contracting and sales experience with multiple US manufacturing and distribution companies in the safety and PPE industries. He has worked on over 40 GSA schedule contracts and helped obtain over 150 NSN’s. He has helped his companies win over $100 million in contracts at the federal and state levels including nationwide DHS, Navy, Army Corps, Air Force, and TSA multi-year, fixed, IDIQ, and BPA contracts.
Camryn Tunney
Marketing Specialist, IMEC
Camryn Tunney is a Marketing Specialist who leads marketing initiatives that support manufacturers across Illinois. She focuses on promoting programs, events, and resources that drive business growth, including supplier matchmaking initiatives that connect manufacturers with new opportunities. Camryn has supported over 200 manufacturing events and is passionate about fostering meaningful industry connections and strengthening the manufacturing ecosystem.
