IN APEX Accelerator

AFRL Virtual Industry Forum
2025-07-30 12:00 - 16:00 (America/Indiana/Indianapolis)
This event connects industry partners with the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) to explore collaboration on key research and development projects. Learn about current and future opportunities, hear from AFRL experts, and discover how your organization can contribute.
Discover Collaboration Opportunities: AFRL Virtual Forum
The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) invites you to a half-day virtual forum to discover our mission, explore upcoming opportunities, and learn how to work with us. This unclassified event will provide valuable insights into AFRL’s cutting-edge research and development efforts.
During this forum, you will:

Learn about upcoming funding opportunities and partnership programs.
Discover practical guidance on navigating the process of working with AFRL.

This unclassified event is ideal for:

Small business owners and entrepreneurs
Technology developers
Anyone interested in partnering with AFRL

Event Details:

Date: July 30,2025
Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM EDT
Platform: Microsoft TEAMS (Link will be provided upon registration)
Classification: Unclassified

Register: Registration (https://forms.osi.apps.mil/r/vQM2EpeHQ2)

DOD SBIR/STTR 101 Webinar w/APEX Event Registration
2025-08-06 11:00 - 12:00
Mr. John McCanney, the Director of the DoD SBIR/STTR OTST program. He oversees technology transition acceleration within the Department of Defense (DoD) SBIR/STTR program, placing emphasis on innovative commercial and dual-use capabilities. In this presentation businesses will learn about new funding opportunities and the SBIR/STTR Program. Looking for new ways to collaborate with other successful businesses. The discussion will cover 3 different types of companies in different stages of the SBIR Success. Register using the link below.

All About APEX Day: Market Research
2025-08-12 09:30 - 10:30
All About APEX Day: Market Research as it relates to government contracting
Please join Indiana APEX on All About APEX Day as we host a hybrid event presenting an introductory course on Market Research as it relates to government contracting. This presentation will highlight the benefits of conducting a thorough review while detailing many of the different market research tools available. If you want to know how Market Research is useful, how to find out what goods and services the government buys, and would like the opportunity to learn the basics for utilizing the free tools available for both the federal and state level, then join us either in person or online at 9:30 AM EST on Tuesday, October 12th. This hybrid event will be hosted by our Northeast APEX Accelerator Counselor, Jeff Andelin to register, please email Jeff at jandelin@iedc.in.gov.
In-Person Location – 200 E. Main St., Suite 910, Fort Wayne, IN 46802
Garage parking at location will be validated, NEI offices on the 9th floor, Lookout Conference Room

Virtual – a Microsoft Teams link will be sent out prior to the meeting.
If you have any questions, please contact Jeff Andelin @ jandelin@iedc.in.gov. Thank you, and I hope to see you there!

Unlocking Government Contracts: Your Path to Certification & Success
2025-08-12 11:00 - 12:00
Ready to grow your business through government contracting? Join our workshop to learn the certification process, key requirements, and opportunities available to certified contractors. Whether you’re a small business or a large corporation, we’ll provide the tools and knowledge to help you succeed in the government sector.
Don’t miss this chance to boost your chances of winning contracts!
It is an in-person event. Hybrid is also available, too.
Purdue Research Park,
1281 Win Hentschel Blvd.
West Lafayette
Directions to conference room:
Small Conference Room 6. To get to Small Conference Room 6, take the elevator to the second floor, turn right, and go through the door, Room 6 is the first room on the right.
Contact Chris Meyer at chrmeyer@iedc.in.gov to register.

Selling to the Government: Preparing a Compelling Capabilities Statement
2025-08-12 12:00 - 13:00
Ready to open doors in the federal marketplace? This session breaks down how to craft a powerful, tailored Capabilities Statement that grabs attention and positions your business as a go-to solution for government buyers. Learn what content matters most, how to format for impact, and how to align your statement with agency expectations. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to refresh your pitch, you’ll walk away with practical tips to stand out, get noticed, and get invited to compete.

All About APEX: New Tricks for Seeking Solicitations & Proposal Preparation
2025-08-12 13:00 - 15:00
Join us to learn new ways in seeking solicitations. Broadening your search for solicitations to bid on, can be the key to unlock your next contract. Do you have solicitations that you want to bid on but get hung up on the proposal preparation? Learn some key tips on how to prepare a winning proposal. You can log in online or attend in-person at the Government center Conference room 4&5 Wabash Hall.
Indiana Government Center South
402 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204

Boots to Business Reboot - West Lafayette
2025-08-26 16:00

City of Indianapolis 2025 August Bid Submission Workshop
2025-08-29 10:00 - 11:30
Bidding for Indianapolis City-County procurement opportunities is often intimidating to contractors who are unfamiliar with government processes. The Indianapolis Purchasing Division offers regular workshops to educate local vendors on City-County bid processes. The upcoming workshop will be on August 29 from 10:00am to 11:30am at the Indianapolis City County Building (200 E. Washington St., 1522, Indianapolis, IN 46204).
Click the link below for more information on upcoming workshops and to register.
https://www.indy.gov/activity/bid-submission-workshops

Essential FOCI ( Foreign Ownsership Control or Influence) Webinar
2025-09-04 13:00 - 14:00 | https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/OUsJDZkfQ-afmzBiY6zwrQ
Join our APEX partners virtually in South Carolina on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at 1:00 PM (ET) for an essential webinar that dives into the critical topic of Foreign Ownership, Control, or Influence (FOCI) and how it impacts government contractors. Gain insight on FOCI rules, mitigating risks and how to be compliance. FOCI applies to companies where a foreign interest has power to directly or indirectly influence the company’s management or operations. FOCI regulations help prevent unauthorized access to classified information to protect national security interests. Recognize whether your small business is in compliance with FOCI rules and how to protect classified contracts.
Please signup using registration link

Casting, Forging and Machining Event
2025-09-09 13:00 - 16:00
Join the APEX Accelerators for an informative afternoon featuring industry experts from the Department of Defense’s Casting, Forging, and Machining programs and initiatives. This session offers a unique opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge directly from those shaping these critical areas of defense manufacturing.

Attendees will hear from a panel of experts:

Sheila Rayburn, Integrated Casting Order Network (ICON) program/Non-Ferrous Founders Society (NFFS)
Michael Chiero from the Valor Group
Eric Evans – DLA Land & Maritime
David Poweleit – Steel Founders’ Society of America (SFSA)
Charles Edens – Forging Defense Manufacturing Consortium (FDMC)
American Metal Casting (AMC)
Advanced Technology International (ATI)

Summary of the ICON program:
Unlocking the Power of the Integrated Casting Order Network (ICON): Modernizing Defense Manufacturing
In today’s rapidly evolving defense landscape, the demand for agile, secure, and efficient manufacturing solutions is greater than ever. The Integrated Casting Order Network (ICON) stands at the forefront of this transformation, offering a state-of-the-art digital platform that connects the Department of Defense (DoD) and prime contractors with a wide range of qualified foundries, forging facilities, and machine shops. Designed to modernize the acquisition and production of metal components critical to national security, ICON enables smarter sourcing, increased visibility, and accelerated procurement timelines.

THIS FREE WEBINAR IS SPONSORED BY APEX ACCELERATORS NATIONWIDE!

City of Indianapolis 2025 September Bid Submission Workshop
2025-09-26 10:00 - 11:30
Bidding for Indianapolis City-County procurement opportunities is often intimidating to contractors who are unfamiliar with government processes. The Indianapolis Purchasing Division offers regular workshops to educate local vendors on City-County bid processes. The upcoming workshop will be on September 26 from 10:00am to 11:30am at the Indianapolis City County Building (200 E. Washington St., 1522, Indianapolis, IN 46204).
Click the link below for more information on upcoming workshops and to register.
https://www.indy.gov/activity/bid-submission-workshops

ERDCWERX APEX Webinar
2025-09-30 11:00 - 12:00
ERDCWERX, an innovation hub of DEFENSEWERX, provides a streamlined path to collaboration and contracting with the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC). ERDCWERX events, tech challenges, and other opportunities make it easier and faster for innovators to propose solutions for consideration by ERDC. As a result of the ERDCWERX partnership with ERDC, a growing number of contracts and agreements are being awarded to industry and academia.

During the session, you’ll learn about:
• U.S. Army ERDC and its focus areas
• Tech challenges, Other Transaction Authorities (OTAs), Commercial Solutions Openings (CSOs) and other opportunities for small businesses to collaborate with ERDC
• Licensing ERDC technology
• Ways to receive project announcements

For more information, visit www.ERDCWERX.org and www.ERDCinnovation.org.

BOLT powered by gener8tor
2025-10-01 09:00 - 17:00
If you are an innovator, working in the defense/government industry, and need more investments to fund your research and work, the Bolt Conference will be perfect for you!
Startups, corporate innovators, and investors collide to accelerate growth and make real moves. Fast-paced, high-impact, and outcomes-focused — BOLT is where partnerships are born, and deals get done.
Whether you’re building the next big thing or scouting for it, BOLT is where conversations become commitments. The event is free for startups and small businesses so to register, please go to https://www.gener8tor.com/bolt

All About APEX : Coffee & Contracts
2025-10-06 08:00 - 09:00
Grab your coffee and let’s chat with the Indiana APEX Accelerators on government contracting topics. We will cover tips and tricks to keep in mind when applying for certifications, the new DoD final rule on CMMC and cover best practices when seeking solicitations and other frequently asked questions we encounter with businesses on the daily basis.

All About APEX: Market Yourself Monday: Top Engagement Strategies towards Federal Buyers
2025-10-06 11:00 - 12:00
Join IN APEX, during APEX Week, for Market Yourself Monday, discover ways for GovCons can stay engaged with federal buyers even when no one is buying. Learn why engagement matters right now, what makes for an effective follow-up, and 10 Microengagement moves that work.
Please join us online Monday, October 6th at 11:00am EST. The virtual event will be presented by our Northwest IN APEX Counselor, Chris Meyer. To register, please use the link or email Chris Meyer at chrmeyer@iedc.in.gov
This is a VIRTUAL EVENT, a Microsoft Teams link will be sent out prior to the workshop.
If you have any questions, please email Chris Meyer at chrmeyer@idec.in.gov Thanks & I hope to see you there!

All About APEX: Industrial Base Analysis & Sustainment Program (IBAS)
2025-10-07 11:00 - 12:00
Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment Program (IBAS)
Please join Indiana APEX during APEX week as we host a virtual event presenting an informatory session on the Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment Program (IBAS). This presentation will provide a general understanding regarding IBAS, where it fits within Industrial Defense Policy, and how it looks to affect National Defense Industrial Strategy. We will discuss the IBAS program focus areas, how the program looks to address key gaps, and finally how they fund projects that align with those areas.
Please join us online at 11:00 AM EST on Tuesday, October 7th. This virtual event will be hosted by our Northeast APEX Accelerator Counselor, Jeff Andelin. To register use the link or email Jeff at jandelin@iedc.in.gov.
Virtual Event – a Microsoft Teams link will be sent out prior to the meeting.
If you have any questions, please contact Jeff Andelin @ jandelin@iedc.in.gov. Thank you, and I hope to see you there!

All About APEX: EXPLORING EXPONENTIAL TECHNOLOGIES
2025-10-08 12:00 - 13:00
Step into the future with this dynamic virtual session that delves into the forefront of innovation. From the microscopic precision of microelectronics to the transformative impact of advanced manufacturing and the blistering speed of hypersonic systems, discover the breakthroughs redefining defense, industry, and global competitiveness.
Whether you’re a tech entrepreneur, forward-thinking innovator, or simply curious about what’s next, join Kashif Hasnie as he unpacks the forces driving exponential change, and why they matter more than ever.
Date & Time: Wednesday, October 8th at 12:00 PM ET
Location: Virtual Event (Microsoft Teams link will be sent prior to the session)
Register: Use the link below or email Kashif Hasnie at khasnie@iedc.in.gov
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Kashif directly.
We look forward to seeing you there!

All About APEX: Proposal Success
2025-10-09 12:00 - 13:00
Please join IN APEX, during APEX Week, for a webinar discussing preparing and understanding the proposal process for federal government contracting. The webinar will discuss evaluating solicitations in SAM.gov, key factors in preparing a proposal, and important factors to consider when navigating the federal procurement space.

This event will take place on Thursday, October 9th at 12:00pm EST. The virtual event will be presented by our North Central/Central IN APEX Counselor, Caroline Storms. To register, please email Caroline Storms at cstorms@iedc.in.gov

This is a VIRTUAL EVENT, a Microsoft Teams link will be sent out prior to the workshop.

If you have any questions, please email Caroline Storms at cstorms@iedc.in.gov

All About APEX: Coffee & Questions
2025-10-10 09:00 - 10:30
Grab your coffee and let’s chat with IN APEX Accelerators on government contracting topics! This event will function as a two-part event to close out All About APEX Week. The first half will briefly cover a variety of topics not covered during this week’s workshops. These topics will include SBA certifications, including the MPP, as well as DPA Title III and FOCI. The second half will be structured as open office hours where APEX counselors will be present to answer any questions that our clients may have.

Please join us online Friday, October 10th at 9:00am EST. To register, please use the link or email Caroline Storms at cstorms@iedc.in.gov

This is a VIRTUAL EVENT, a Microsoft Teams link will be sent out prior to the workshop

NSF Proposal Pitch: How to Secure SBIR/STTR Funding Through NSF
2025-10-29 12:00 - 13:00
Join us for an informative session with Dr. Lisa Hoverman as she unravels the art of the proposal pitch process for the National Science Foundation (NSF). This webinar will guide attendees through the critical steps of crafting and submitting a compelling Project Pitch, your gateway towards securing SBIR/STTR funding through NSF.
Dr. Hoverman will share expert insights on how to effectively communicate and showcase your innovation, highlight and demonstrate technical merit, market potential, and position your company for that coveted approval.
Whether you’re just exploring NSF opportunities or ready to submit your pitch, this session will offer valuable guidance to transform your approach and boost your confidence.

IN APEX | CYBERSECURITY, FOCI & DPA
2025-10-29 12:00 - 13:30
Please join IN APEX, for a webinar discussing cybersecurity, FOCI, and DPA Title III. The webinar will discuss cybersecurity requirements in the federal space, what a business should know about FOCI, as well as explore DPA Title III.

This event will take place on Wednesday, October 29th at 12:00pm EST. The virtual event will be presented by our North Central/Central IN APEX Counselor, Caroline Storms and our Northeast IN APEX Counselor, Jeff Andelin. To register, please email Caroline Storms at cstorms@iedc.in.gov or Jeff Andelin at jandelin@iedc.in.gov

This is a VIRTUAL EVENT, a Microsoft Teams link will be sent out prior to the workshop.

If you have any questions, please email Caroline Storms at cstorms@iedc.in.gov. We look forward to seeing you there!

What to Know About CMMC : Project Spectrum Webinar
2025-10-30 10:00 - 11:30
Join us for this timely webinar on the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) and learn how you can access valuable
Project Spectrum resources – at no cost.

CMMC Cyber Tool Kit
CyberSelf-Assessments: Determineyourcurrentlevelofcybersecurity readiness onyourowntime,atyourownpace.
ComprehensiveToolset: Leveragetools,templates, educationalcontent,andhosted webinarstodemystifythecomplexityofmeeting DoDcybersecuritymandates.
ExpertCyberAdvisors: Implementcybersecuritymeasureswithconfidence. Access1-on-1guidancefromcertifiedcybersecurityprofessionals.
CommunitySupportNetwork: Engagewith Defense IndustrialBase(DIB) small-andmedium-sized businesses tosharebestpracticesandexperiences.
Q & A with Expert Cyber Advisors
Meet the Expert Cyber Advisors:

Michael Christian
Compliance consultant with expertise in control implementation and IT financial audits.
Experienced in NIST 800-53, NIST 800-171, and SOC2 IT standards.
Certifications:Certified Information Systems Security ProfessionalCertified Information Security ManagerCertified Information Systems Auditor

Jenna Salhab
Cybersecurity professional with a strong foundation in policy and governance.
Experienced in supporting organizations in achieving compliance with CMMC and NIST cybersecurity standards.
Certifications:CMMC Registered PractitionerCompTia Security+

Registration – Email dyelder@iedc.in.gov for meeting link

City of Indianapolis 2025 October Bid Submission Workshop
2025-10-31 10:00 - 11:30
Bidding for Indianapolis City-County procurement opportunities is often intimidating to contractors who are unfamiliar with government processes. The Indianapolis Purchasing Division offers regular workshops to educate local vendors on City-County bid processes. The upcoming workshop will be on October 31 from 10:00am to 11:30am at the Indianapolis City County Building (200 E. Washington St., 1522, Indianapolis, IN 46204).
Click the link below for more information on upcoming workshops and to register.
https://www.indy.gov/activity/bid-submission-workshops

DARPA Connect w/ APEX: Your Door to Defense Innovation: Navigating DARPA through DARPAConnect
2025-11-12 11:00 - 12:00
Join Indiana APEX as we Partner with DARPAConnect Presenter Dr. Jess Resig, Vice President of Solutions Innovation, ARI
Discover how to unlock opportunities with DARPA and navigate the DARPAConnect Portal to propel your business or research organization toward innovation. This interactive webinar features insights from Dr. Jess Resig, Vice President of Solutions Innovation at ARI and Program Deputy on the DARPAConnect initiative. Learn how to leverage DARPA’s resources, connect with groundbreaking programs, and position your business for success in the rapidly evolving defense and innovation landscape.

INAPEX Coffee & Contracts
2025-12-15 08:00 - 09:00
Grab your coffee and let’s chat with the Indiana APEX Accelerators on government contracting topics. We will cover tips and tricks to keep in mind when applying for certifications, the DoD final rule on CMMC and self certification tips and cover best practices when seeking solicitations and other frequently asked questions we encounter with businesses on the daily basis.

DCAA Cost Reimbursement Series – Part 1
2026-01-14 14:00 - 16:00
Join Indiana APEX Accelerator and the National APEX Accelerator Alliance (NAPEX) as we are excited to announce the upcoming DCAA Cost Reimbursable Requirements Series. Part 1 of the Cost Reimbursable Requirements Series includes Accounting System Requirements and Real Time Labor Evaluations.
Prior to being awarded a cost reimbursable contract, federal government contractors need to ensure their accounting system is adequate for determining costs applicable to federal contracts. This is accomplished when DCAA conducts a Pre-Award Accounting System Audit at the request of a federal agency. During this training, DCAA will discuss the federal regulations that define an acceptable accounting system, evaluate the minimum requirements of the SF 1408 criteria, and how small businesses can prepare for this type of audit. Experts from DCAA will differentiate between direct versus indirect costs, define total contract costs, provide an overview of indirect allocation bases, and learn how FAR Part 31 clauses describe allowability, allocability, and reasonableness.
Once awarded a cost reimbursable contract award, contractors are eligible for floor check audits, otherwise known as “real-time labor evaluations”. Join DCAA as we discuss what is a real- time labor evaluation, why DCAA performs them, and how small businesses can prepare for these audits.

Army Office of Small Business Virtual Matchmaking
2026-01-21 09:00 - 12:00
Registration and appointment scheduling opens January 12 at 12:00 PM EST.
Interested participants must register onMatchSynergy.netand create user profile if one does not already exist.

Register for the annual matchmaking event hosted by the Army Office of Small Business Programs. You will have the opportunity to schedule appointments and meet with primes and contracting officers within your industry. You must register for the event, which opens on January 12th, 2026.
