Join us for a premier three-day gathering that brings together the Midwest's most innovative defense stakeholders at the University of Notre Dame, November 6-8, 2025.

Bringing Together Leaders in Shipbuilding and Microelectronics

Timed strategically around the historic Notre Dame vs. Navy football game, this summit represents a unique convergence of maritime tradition, academic excellence, and cutting-edge defense innovation. This event is specifically designed to welcome both established defense contractors and companies with no defense experience whatsoever. Whether you're seeking to understand defense funding opportunities, explore academic partnerships, or learn how to transition commercial technologies to defense applications, this forum and our panel of experts will provide the perfect entry point into the defense innovation ecosystem.

Who Should Attend?

Government & Defense Officials:

• DoD personnel and defense acquisition professionals,

• Regional economic development leaders

Industry & Technology:

• Defense contractors and established defense technology companies

• Innovative companies from any industry seeking defense funding and academic partnerships

• Manufacturers, tech startups, and commercial businesses exploring defense opportunities

• Great Lakes maritime and unmanned systems stakeholders

Capital & Investment:

• Venture capital and private equity professionals

• Innovation ecosystem leaders

Academia & Workforce Development:

• University researchers, faculty, and technology transfer officers

• Workforce development professionals and organizations