Fostering Innovation and Growth in the Defense Industrial Base
Strengthening Our Defense Industrial Base
The AFCEA Scott AFB – St. Louis Chapter takes pride in fostering a robust small business ecosystem that strengthens our defense industrial base. We recognize that small businesses are engines of innovation and critical partners in supporting Scott AFB’s diverse missions. Through targeted programming and networking opportunities, we create an environment where small businesses can thrive and forge meaningful partnerships.
Benefits for Small Businesses
Direct Access
Monthly Small Business Spotlight sessions where emerging companies showcase their capabilities directly to government program managers and prime contractors.
Match-Making Events
Quarterly events that connect small businesses with prime contractors actively seeking teaming partners for upcoming opportunities.
Expert Guidance
Small Business Advisory Council provides mentorship, guidance on doing business with Scott AFB, and insights into navigating federal contracting.
Strategic Networking
Special networking sessions designed to facilitate organic relationship-building between small businesses, large industry partners, and government stakeholders.
Recent Success Story
April 2025 Small Business Workshop
Our recent Small Business Workshop brought together entrepreneurs at various stages of their government contracting journey. The event featured Dr. Theresa Ebeler from the Illinois APEX Accelerator, who detailed how their services helped clients secure nearly $499 million in government contracts in 2024 alone.
The highlight was an engaging fireside chat with DoD small business professionals who provided invaluable insights on contract consolidation strategies, cybersecurity requirements, and proposal evaluation criteria. Attendees gained practical guidance on maintaining competitiveness and identifying underserved capabilities where small businesses have competitive advantages.
The diverse mix of attendees created an exceptionally rich dialogue. We had representatives from emerging tech startups sitting alongside established defense contractors, all benefiting from direct access to key decision-makers.
Upcoming Small Business Events
B2B Speed Dating Events
Fast-paced networking sessions connecting small businesses with prime contractors and government representatives.
Resources & Tools
Federal Contracting Basics
- ✓ SAM.gov Registration Guide
- ✓ Understanding Set-Asides
- ✓ Teaming Agreement Templates
- ✓ Cybersecurity Requirements (CMMC)
Partner Organizations
- ✓ Illinois APEX Accelerator
- ✓ DoD Office of Small Business Programs
- ✓ USTRANSCOM Small Business Office
- ✓ Regional PTAC Resources
Upcoming Opportunities
- ✓ Current RFPs & Sources Sought
- ✓ Industry Day Announcements
- ✓ Subcontracting Opportunities
- ✓ Mentor-Protégé Programs
Get Involved
For Small Businesses
Join our Small Business Committee to:
- Showcase your capabilities at monthly spotlights
- Connect with prime contractors seeking partners
- Access mentorship and guidance
- Participate in exclusive networking events
For Prime Contractors
Partner with us to:
- Meet your small business contracting goals
- Discover innovative partners
- Participate in match-making events
- Mentor emerging businesses
Ready to Grow Your Federal Business?
Join the AFCEA Scott AFB – St. Louis Chapter and connect with the resources, partners, and opportunities you need to succeed.