Getting into Security & Defence Supply Chains

The UK Security and Defence sectors are growing, multi-billion-pound industries with significant opportunities for businesses of all sizes, and we're going to help you understand the landscape and what it takes to become supplier ready.

This session will equip you with the insights, tools, and information on connections needed to make informed decisions and take strategic steps into the defence sector.

Delivered by the North East Defence & Security Cluster, lets get you ready to diversify your business into one of the UK’s most opportunity-rich sectors

What You’ll Learn:

• The current defence landscape and rising investment opportunities
• Key players, innovation hubs, and regional strengths in North East England
• Procurement pathways including JOSCAR and DSP
• Bid writing and tendering essentials for defence contracts
• Cybersecurity standards and compliance requirements
• ESG and social value strategies for defence supply chains
• Strategic positioning, networking, and growth tactics
• The role of the Armed Forces Covenant in inclusive employment and market access

Why Attend:

• Gain actionable insights from experts with over 35 years of experience
• Build peer-to-peer networks and connect with regional clusters
• Understand baseline requirements and sector expectations
• Learn how to de-risk your business and boost resilience
• Access useful contacts and resources to support your journey

Who Should Attend:

• SME owners and decision-makers in manufacturing and service sectors
• Businesses exploring diversification into defence and security
• Entrepreneurs seeking dual-use product strategies

Agenda:

9-9.30am Beverages & Networking

9.30am Welcome from NERDSC Host & Housekeeping

9.40am Workshop Part 1

10.40am Refreshment Break & Networking

11.00am Workshop Part 2

12.00pm Wrap Up and Questions

12.15pm Thanks and Networking

12.30pm Event Close

Event Partners

This event is in partnership with Tees Valley and Sunderland Supply Chain Programmes.

Sunderland: This project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Supply Chain Sunderland has received £72,719.00 from the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund Programme, managed in Sunderland by Sunderland City Council on behalf of the Sunderland Partnership.

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund provides £900 million of funding for local investment in 2025/26. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK by investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills

Tees Valley: Open to businesses that are based in Tees Valley (Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar & Cleveland or Stockton-On-Tees)