About DPC
Opening the defence supply chain to UK business.
Who we are
A forum built around real routes to contract.
The Defence Procurement Conference brings together SMEs, defence manufacturers, commissioners and Government representatives to create genuine commercial routes into defence contracts.
Our first conference took place in Birmingham in June 2026. Planning for DPC 2027 is well under way, with more buyers, more primes and more opportunities to plug your business into the supply chain.
Our mission
Stronger supply chains. Stronger national resilience.
Diversified, resilient supply chains
Broadening the base of suppliers the UK can rely on.
Regional industrial growth
Putting West Midlands capability at the centre of defence delivery.
SME participation in major programmes
Helping smaller firms find their place on large contracts.
Transparent, accessible procurement
Making the process clearer for first time suppliers.
Why the West Midlands
Industrial heritage. Advanced manufacturing future.
From aerospace to cyber security, the region has the capability defence needs. DPC helps local firms turn that capability into contracts by:
- Navigating defence procurement frameworks
- Meeting compliance standards
- Engaging with prime contractors
- Accessing emerging capability opportunities
What makes DPC different
Not an expo. A procurement forum.
Targeted networking
Curated introductions between buyers and suppliers.
Policy insight
Briefings on where defence spend is heading.
Direct access
Time with the procurement leaders who award work.
Practical guidance
Workshops that get SMEs supplier ready.
Who runs DPC
Make UK Defence
DPC runs in partnership with Make UK Defence, the voice of UK defence manufacturing.
One Thousand Trades Group
Delivered by One Thousand Trades Group, organisers of sector events and networks across the UK.
Be part of the businesses shaping UK defence.
Join SMEs, primes, MOD buyers and policymakers at Edgbaston Stadium.