The National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC) National Conference is not just another networking event—it is the premier business engagement platform where certified veteran-owned businesses connect directly with America’s most respected corporate supplier procurement programs. The NVBDC National Conference also serves as the launchpad for international growth opportunities, strengthened by our strategic federal partnerships. This year, we are excited to highlight the NVBDC National Conference Top Supplier Procurement Programs as a key focus for attendees.
This year, some of the largest and most influential corporations in the world have already committed to sponsor and participate in 1:1 matchmaking sessions with NVBDC-certified Service-Disabled and Veteran-Owned Businesses (SD/VOBs). These companies represent BILLIONS of dollars in annual procurement spend and a demonstrated commitment to creating opportunities for veteran entrepreneurs.
The NVBDC National Conference Top Supplier Procurement Programs will feature sessions that empower veteran entrepreneurs to navigate these resources effectively.
Corporations Already On Board for 2025:
- Tenneco Inc. – A global leader in automotive products, committed to fostering relationships with diverse suppliers in manufacturing, logistics, and beyond.
- Yanfeng International – One of the world’s largest automotive suppliers, with a robust supplier diversity program seeking innovative veteran-owned partners.
- Eli Lilly & Company – A global pharmaceutical leader with a long-standing commitment to supplier diversity in science, technology, healthcare, and support services.
- Robert Half – The world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm, actively seeking certified veteran suppliers for staffing, consulting, and support services.
- Burns & McDonnell – A top engineering, architecture, and construction firm with a proven record of awarding contracts to diverse suppliers nationwide.
- NiSource – One of the largest fully regulated utility companies in the United States, dedicated to partnering with veteran-owned businesses for energy-related services and procurement needs.
- DTE – One of the largest companies in the U.S. involved in the development and management of energy-related businesses, primarily focusing on electric and natural gas services. DTE Energy also has non-utility businesses focused on power and industrial projects, energy marketing, and trading.
- Adient – A global leader in automotive seating with ongoing initiatives to integrate veteran-owned suppliers into their global supply chain.
- Dell Technologies – A world leader in technology solutions, actively investing in relationships with diverse and veteran-owned suppliers for everything from IT services to logistics.
Each of these corporations has a formal supplier diversity program designed to identify, engage, and award contracts to diverse suppliers—including veteran-owned businesses. By certifying with NVBDC, you meet the gold standard for corporate supplier diversity recognition, making you eligible to compete for their procurement opportunities.
Breaking into the supply chains of Fortune 500 companies can take years. The NVBDC National Conference accelerates that process by putting you face-to-face with decision-makers ready to connect, learn about your veteran-owned business, and explore real opportunities.
For many businesses, breaking into the supply chains of Fortune 500 companies can be a years-long process. The NVBDC National Conference accelerates that timeline by putting you face-to-face with decision-makers—all in one place, over the course of two high-impact days.
The Power of 1:1 Matchmaking
Our 1:1 matchmaking sessions are where connections turn into contracts. You’ll meet directly with corporate procurement teams who already know you are NVBDC-certified and ready to do business. These are not cold calls or generic networking conversations—these are targeted, pre-scheduled meetings with companies actively looking for certified veteran-owned suppliers.
More Than Just Meetings – A Platform for Growth
- Educational Breakouts: Learn how to navigate corporate procurement, position your business competitively, and leverage your veteran certification.
- Keynote Insights: Hear from senior executives and supplier diversity leaders about future procurement needs, industry trends, and emerging opportunities.
- Networking at Scale: Connect with other veteran business owners, exchange referrals, and explore joint ventures that expand your capabilities.
Don’t Just Attend – Come Prepared
This is your moment. Register. Show up. Bring your capability statement and be ready to talk about what sets your business apart. The corporations in attendance are prepared to listen, take notes, and explore partnerships—make sure you’re ready to deliver your best pitch.
NVBDC National Conference – Register Today
Spaces for 1:1 matchmaking are limited and will be booked on a first-come, first-served basis.
Opportunities like this don’t happen every day. This is the moment to showcase your capabilities, build strategic relationships, and position your business for long-term growth. The corporations attending have open doors for NVBDC Certified Veteran suppliers—all you have to do is step through.
Don’t miss your chance to meet the companies that can take your veteran-owned business to the next level and find out what Patriotism in Action looks like and why supporting NVBDC Certified Veteran Businesses matters.
