IN APEX Accelerator

Essential FOCI ( Foreign Ownsership Control or Influence) Webinar
2025-09-04 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Indiana/Indianapolis) | 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.

IN APEX Presents: Working with DLA Troop Support Supplying Subsistence, Medical, Clothing & Textiles
2026-01-21 11:00 - 12:00
Interested in working with DLA Troop Support, supplying Subsistence, Medical, Clothing & Textiles, and Construction & Equipment (supplies, not services)?? This is your opportunity to talk with DLA Troop Support’s Small Business Advisor, Patrick D’Amico, who will be presenting virtually with how to work with them. Learn about how to best position yourself on supplying our Warfighter with the necessary supplies that DLA Troop Support buys. DLA spends over $21 Billion a year so come sign up to learn more to capture your piece of the $21 Billion pie!

IN APEX Presents: Cybersecurity Basics
2026-02-11 11:00 - 12:00
Cybersecurity Basics
Please join Indiana APEX as we host a virtual training session focusing on the Cybersecurity Basics required for those pursuing federal government contracts.
The presentation on Cybersecurity basics will include:

A general understanding of the cyber basics
A detailing of the NIST 800-171 standard
A detailing of FAR 52.204.21 basic safeguarding requirements
An overview of CMMC the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification
And more, including available resources

If you would like to understand more or have any questions about cyber requirements, then join us online at 11:00 AM EST on Wednesday, February 11th. This virtual event will be hosted by our Northeast APEX Accelerator Counselor, Jeff Andelin.
Where: Virtual – a Microsoft Teams link will be sent out prior to the event.
When: 2/11/2026 from 11:00am – 12:00pm EST
If you have any questions, please contact Jeff Andelin at jandelin@iedc.in.gov
Thank you, and we hope to see you there!

IN APEX Presents: Project Spectrum
2026-02-12 11:00 - 12:00
Project Spectrum
Please join Indiana APEX we host a virtual training session focusing on Project Spectrum and the free resources available for those pursuing CMMC.
The presentation on Project Spectrum will include and overview of the website, the resources available, access to APEX client specific cyber advisor resources, and an outline of the Project Spectrum advised steps regarding CMMC.
If you would like to understand more or have any questions about Project Spectrum, then join us online at 11:00 AM EST on Thursday, February 12th. This virtual event will be hosted by our Northeast APEX Accelerator Counselor, Jeff Andelin.
Where: Virtual – a Microsoft Teams link will be sent out prior to the event.
When: 2/12/2026 from 11:00am – 12:00pm EST
If you have any questions, please contact Jeff Andelin at jandelin@iedc.in.gov
Thank you, and we hope to see you there!

DBE Re-Evaluation/New Application Webinar
2026-02-23 09:00 - 09:30
INDOT will be hosting a webinar to provide DBEs and prospective applicants with an overview of the revised application process as outlined in the final rule. This session will provide a structured overview of application requirements, documentation expectations, and important considerations to support the submission of a complete and compliant application.

Please note, this session will not have live Q&A, however, participants may submit questions and feedback during the webinar which will be used to develop an FAQ document to be shared following the session.

Thank you for your continued interest in the DBE program and your cooperation as these updates are implemented.

IN APEX Presents: GSA Schedule Part 1
2026-02-24 11:00 - 12:00
GSA Schedule Part 1
Please join Indiana APEX as we host a three-part virtual event presenting the GSA Schedule as it relates to government contracting.
Part 1 will provide a basic overview of the GSA Schedule. Basic knowledge, terminology, and helping to understand if the GSA Schedule is right for a business.
If you want to know more about the GSA Schedule then join us online for our 3-part presentation on February 24th, 25th, & 26th. Sign up for the parts of interest to you. These virtual events will be hosted by our Northeast APEX Accelerator Counselor, Jeff Andelin.
Where: Virtual – a Microsoft Teams link will be sent out prior to the meeting.
When: Part 1 – 2/24/2026 from 11:00am – 12:00pm
If you have any questions, please contact Jeff Andelin at jandelin@iedc.in.gov.
Thank you, and I hope to see you there!

IN APEX Presents: GSA Schedule Part 2
2026-02-25 11:00 - 12:00
GSA Schedule Part 2
Please join Indiana APEX as we host a three-part virtual event presenting the GSA Schedule as it relates to government contracting.
Part 2 will cover the application process and provide useful information to know before applying. What to expect from the process.
If you want to know more about the GSA Schedule then join us online for our 3-part presentation on February 24th, 25th, & 26th. Sign up for the parts of interest to you. These virtual events will be hosted by our Northeast APEX Accelerator Counselor, Jeff Andelin.
Where: Virtual – a Microsoft Teams link will be sent out prior to the meeting.
When: Part 2 – 2/25/2026 from 11:00am – 12:00pm
If you have any questions, please contact Jeff Andelin at jandelin@iedc.in.gov.
Thank you, and I hope to see you there!

IN APEX Presents: GSA Schedule Part 3
2026-02-26 11:00 - 12:00
GSA Schedule Part 3
Please join Indiana APEX as we host a three-part virtual event presenting the GSA Schedule as it relates to government contracting.
Part 3 will address the after award. What to expect regarding annual evaluation, doing modifications and getting the most by marketing as a schedule holder.
If you want to know more about the GSA Schedule then join us online for our 3-part presentation on February 24th, 25th, & 26th. Sign up for the parts of interest to you. These virtual events will be hosted by our Northeast APEX Accelerator Counselor, Jeff Andelin.
Where: Virtual – a Microsoft Teams link will be sent out prior to the meeting.
When: Part 3 – 2/26/2026 from 11:00am – 12:00pm
If you have any questions, please contact Jeff Andelin at jandelin@iedc.in.gov.
Thank you, and I hope to see you there!

Indiana APEX - Coffee & Contracts
2026-03-03 09:00 - 10:00
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, IEDC SBIR/STTR matching grant, LYNX Launch, DPA Title III the new DoD final, best practices when seeking solicitations and other frequently asked questions we encounter with businesses on the daily basis.

IN APEX Presents: DLA DIBBS Part 1
2026-04-01 11:00 - 12:00
DLA DIBBS Part 1
Please join Indiana APEX as we host a two-part virtual event presenting DLA’s Internet Bid Board Systems (DIBBS).
Part 1 of this event will provide a basic overview of DIBBS. Understanding if DIBBS is right for your business, basic knowledge and requirements, helpful hints, and useful resources.
If you want to know more about the DLA’s DIBBS then join us online for our 2-part presentation on April 1st & 2nd. Sign up for the parts of interest to you. These virtual events will be hosted by our Northeast APEX Accelerator Counselor, Jeff Andelin.
Where: Virtual – a Microsoft Teams link will be sent out prior to the meeting.
When: Part 1 – 4/1/2026 from 11:00am – 12:00pm
If you have any questions, please contact Jeff Andelin at jandelin@iedc.in.gov.
Thank you, and I hope to see you there!

IN APEX Presents: DLA DIBBS Part 2
2026-04-02 11:00 - 12:00
DLA DIBBS Part 2
Please join Indiana APEX as we host a two-part virtual event presenting DLA’s Internet Bid Board Systems (DIBBS).
Part 2 of this event go more in-depth regarding Joint Certification Program (JCP), access to cFolders for drawings and specs, a look at packaging, labeling and shipping resources.
If you want to know more about the DLA’s DIBBS then join us online for our 2-part presentation on April 1st & 2nd. Sign up for the parts of interest to you. These virtual events will be hosted by our Northeast APEX Accelerator Counselor, Jeff Andelin.
Where: Virtual – a Microsoft Teams link will be sent out prior to the meeting.
When: Part 2 – 4/2/2026 from 11:00am – 12:00pm
If you have any questions, please contact Jeff Andelin at jandelin@iedc.in.gov.
Thank you, and I hope to see you there!

DOING BUSINESS WITH GSA
2026-04-14 11:00 - 12:00
This webinar provides an overview of the GSA Multiple Award Schedule Program, Public Buildings Service, Federal Acquisition Service, and Governmentwide Acquisition Contracts. We will also cover the Forecast of Contracting Opportunities and the Small Business Administration’s Subcontracting Network (SubNet).
F E A T U R E D P R E S E N T E R SMylethea (Mya) GreenProcurement Analyst & Small Business Technical Advisor (SBTA)GSA Region 5 | Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU)Covering: Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio & WisconsinU.S. Army Veteran | Operation Iraqi Freedom | FAC-C (Professional) Certified
Kimberly HutchinsonSmall Business Technical Advisor (SBTA)GSA Great Lakes Region | Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU)35+ Years of Government Service | Regional Small Business Liaison & AdvocateAdvocate for WOSB, SDB, 8(a), HUBZone, SDVOSB, VOSB & Tribal Organizations

Registration link: https://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_UyaLAXRdRK6SP9nq7rID9A#/registration
