Companies eager to establish or expand their partnerships within the Department of Defense (DoD) are invited to participate in BuyIN, a premier networking and business development event for Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division (NSWC Crane), on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. Other events include a golf outing on Monday, April 27th at the Donald Ross Golf Course as well as a vendor reception on Monday evening from 5-7 PM. This Expo is designed to connect businesses with key decision-makers, providing unparalleled opportunities to secure valuable insight on DoD contracts and military needs.

Date: April 28th

Location: French Lick Casino and Resort, 8670 West State Road 56 French Lick, Indiana 47432

BuyIN serves as a strategic platform for businesses of all sizes to gain insights into the DoD’s procurement processes and requirements. Attendees will have the chance to:

• Engage with Key Stakeholders: Meet with DoD representatives, procurement officials, and industry leaders to learn about upcoming opportunities and related needs.

• Participate in Workshops: Gain actionable knowledge on navigating federal contracting processes, compliance standards, and proposal development.

• Showcase Capabilities: Highlight your company’s products, services, and innovations to decision-makers seeking cutting-edge solutions.

• Network with Peers: Build relationships with fellow industry professionals and potential collaborators.

“BuyIN is more than just an event—it’s a launchpad for impactful partnerships between industry and the Department of Defense,” says Dan Bortner, CEO of the Bedford Chamber of Commerce. “We’re honored to host this initiative, reflecting our deep commitment to driving innovation and strengthening collaboration in support of national security.”

NSWC Crane, a critical hub for technological advancement and defense innovation, is home to some of the most advanced research and development initiatives in the nation. NSWC Crane is seeking companies that can assist with the anticipated growth in all areas of base operations including new technology adoption, maintenance and construction, general operational support, and companies with expertise in advanced technologies supporting their mission areas. These areas include Electromagnetic Warfare, Hypersonics, Autonomous Systems, and Cybersecurity. Companies with capabilities that can contribute to Crane’s strategic priorities and help deliver cutting-edge solutions for the warfighter are encouraged to participate.

Attendees Should Include:

• Small and large businesses interested in federal contracting

• Companies specializing in technology, engineering, manufacturing, and related industries

• Entrepreneurs and startups with exploring defense opportunities that align with NSWC’s mission areas

Registration: Booths at the expo start at $375 (early registration), making this event an affordable investment for businesses looking to expand through government contracting. Space is limited, and early registration is encouraged. Use the link below or find our event on our website www.bedfordchamber.com under signature events to register.

Registration

You can also contact Sally Miller at member@bedfordchamber.com for more details.

Join us at BuyIN and take the first step in building impactful relationships that drive innovation and strengthen national defense capabilities.

During this workshop, we’ll introduce you to local SBA resources who can help you start exploring ways to diversify your revenue streams and begin doing business with the world’s biggest buyer, the U.S. Government. In this workshop, we’ll introduce you to:

• Local SBA resource partner councelors at the East Central Indiana Small Business Development Center who provide one-on-one counseling and mentorship for the life-cycle of your small business
• Indiana APEX Accelerator advisor Jeff Andelin who can help you explore contracts with the Department of Defense and other federal agencies
• *Step-by-step instruction on how to register your small business on SAM.gov, the official U.S. Government System for Awards Management, and the first step you need to take on your federal contracting journey, and
• SBA certifications, which can increase your small businesses’ eligibility power when bidding on federal contracts.

*Please bring your laptop and have documentation found on the SAM.gov Entity Registration Checklist handy to complete SAM.gov registration.

All SBA programs and services are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Questions? Please email laura.schafsnitz@sba.gov. Seating is limited so register to save your spot today!