Events
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Deadline to Apply for NC State Leadership Awards – February 1, 2027
Benton Convention Center 301 West 5th Street, Winston-Salem, NC, United StatesThe 2027 North Carolina State Manufacturing Leadership Awards will be presented to manufacturing facilities in North Carolina with 500 or fewer employees demonstrating excellence in several categories during the 2027 North Carolina Manufacturing Conference, MFGCON on April 8-9, 2027 at Benton Convention Center in Winston-Salem, NC.
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Wells Fargo Pitch to the Pack Textile Entrepreneur Pitch Event
Virtual-ZoomDo you have an idea for a new textile-related product? Or perhaps a new business that could use extra support?
If you fall into either of these categories, you’re the perfect candidate for Wells Fargo Pitch to the Pack, a pitch competition hosted by the Wilson College of Textiles and made possible by the generosity of our sponsor, Wells Fargo.
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FFVC – Happy Hour Featuring
Join First Flight Venture Center for our new monthly happy hour, held on the third Thursday of each month from 4:00–5:30 PM. This gathering is designed to spark meaningful connections and share valuable insights within the entrepreneurial community.
Each month, in addition to networking, we will spotlight a different initiative, educational opportunity, or featured organization—giving you fresh perspectives and resources every time you attend.
Free -
USMCA: What Businesses Need to Know Now
Virtual-ZoomWith the USMCA review underway, businesses across North Carolina are navigating a complex and uncertain North American trade environment. Join us for an inside look at what the review process means, what is known versus what remains speculation, and what a potential annual review could mean for businesses.
Hear directly from business leaders about how tariffs, trade uncertainty, and cross-border relationships with Canada and Mexico are affecting manufacturers, exporters, importers, suppliers, and customers. We’ll explore which sectors are most exposed and how companies are responding.
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Stoll M1 Plus Innovation and Training Center
Manufacturing Solutions Center II 350 5th Avenue SE, Conover,, NC +1 moreStoll USA and the Manufacturing Solutions Center have teamed up to provide Flatbed Knitting and M1 Plus Programming Training to interested parties! The Training Courses will be structured around the Individual needs of the attendees! Prospective Topics may include:
Hand Knitting, Stitch Formation, Yarn Basics
Garment Assembly and Quality Control Basics
M1 Programming Introduction and Basics
Intermediate - Advanced M1 programming$1000 -
First Flight “Itineraries” (HYBRID)
First Flight Venture Center is delighted to host lunchtime programs, "Itineraries" that offer a chance for members of the First Flight community and broader innovation ecosystem to learn about the work of early-stage science-focused companies, network and have some fun at the same time! An Itinerary is ‘a planned route or journey’ and this program gives companies often who are in residence at First Flight a forum in which to share where they are and where they plan to go.
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Southern Textiles Fall Meetings
Various NC, United StatesThe Southern Textile Association, Inc., established in 1908, is a nonprofit organization for individuals in the textile and related industries with a common interest in all phases of textile manufacturing.
The purpose of the Association as stated in its Charter is to promote good fellowship among its members; to exchange professional knowledge and experience on subjects relating to textile manufacturing; to promote other social, educational, personnel relations, research, and other scientific activities for the benefit of the members, their companies , and the textile industry.
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Cybersecurity at NC State
NC State University Raleigh, NC, United StatesIt’s the perfect opportunity to explore ways to keep yourself and the university cyber safe. Good security practices don’t have to be complicated — and they’re not just for IT staff. Start with just three steps.
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Functional Fabric Fair
Oregon Convention Center Portland, OR, United StatesThe Premier Sourcing Event in the US –Dedicated to High Performance Functional Fabrics
Functional Fabric Fair —powered by PERFORMANCE DAYS® —is the premier marketplace in the United States where apparel CEOs, designers and product development executives source the most current innovations in high performance functional fabrics, finishes, trims and accessories. Every exhibitor at the show comes from a carefully curated selection of fabric mills and branded technology companies—all presented in a sustainable/minimal waste exhibition through the use of bio-degradable, recycled and reusable materials. -
Ironclad Maritime Summit
Norfolk, VA Norfolk, VA, United StatesWe stand at an inflection point. America's shipbuilding industrial base — dormant for a generation — is being reawakened with urgency. The Navy is expanding its fleet. Allied nations are racing to build. Capital is flooding into maritime defense at a scale not seen since the Second World War.
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Sewn Goods 101 Workshop
Various NC, United StatesThis on-site, two-day workshop teaches you how to efficiently build a U.S. supply chain and develop successful, long-term relationships with manufacturers. It includes hands-on fabric and materials sessions, guest Q&As with supply chain partners, and tours of manufacturing facilities. Only eight participants are accepted for each workshop*.
$750 -
2026 SPESA Executive Conference
Hotel Valencia Riverwalk 150 East Houston Street, San Antonio, TX, United States +1 moreThe annual SPESA Executive Conference is a key education and networking event for SPESA members, their customers, and anyone interested in learning more about the current issues, trends, and policies impacting the global sewn products industry.
The conference features a combination of keynote speakers, panel discussions, and industry case studies to provide an opportunity for attendees to both learn and engage. While our speakers are experts in their fields, no one has all the answers and thus this conference aims to build communication among both speakers and attendees to address the issues facing our industry and find solutions together.
$275 – $899 -
AI-Driven Manufacturing: Practical Productivity for Manufacturing Teams Course
Monteith Research Center (MRC) 2410 Campus Shore Drive, Rm 454, Raleigh, NC, United States +1 moreArtificial intelligence is no longer just a future concept — it’s becoming a practical tool for manufacturing teams today. Join us for AI-Driven Manufacturing: Practical Productivity for Manufacturing Teams, a one-day hands-on course designed to help manufacturing professionals understand how generative AI can support everyday tasks.
$395 -
ESI Conference
McKimmon Conference and Training Center 1101 Gorman Street, Raleigh, NC, United States -
2026 SYFA Fall Conference
Sheraton Charlotte Airport Hotel 3315 Scott Futrell Drive, Charlotte, NC, United States +1 moreThe SYFA Board of Directors would like for you to join us for the 2026 SYFA Fall Conference. This event starts at 11:30 am on October 29 and ends at noon on October 30, 2026.
$395 – $495 -
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YEW Mentoring Forum
Wilmington, NCMark your calendars for the next forum to help young women to see themselves as future leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs.
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Advanced Textiles Expo 2026
Orlando, Fl Orlando, FL, United StatesLeading the Textile Industry for Over a Century
Advanced Textiles Expo continues to unite professionals, showcase innovation and deliver the insights and solutions that power business growth. -
Industrial Sewing Program
The Industrial Sewing Program prepares trainees for a career in the sewn trades, an industry that has a rich tradition in the region and is experiencing a resurgence. Sewing technicians are in HIGH demand and can make anywhere from $15/hr starting to $20-30/hr for experienced sewers. Most manufacturers are looking for sewing technicians that have some basic experience with industrial machines, so this workshop is the perfect foot-in-the-door with area manufacturers.
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Effectively Presenting Your Business to the Government, Military & Prime Contractors
Virtual-ZoomThis training focuses on real world tips, tricks, tools and lessons learned on how to effectively market a business to federal customers. It also focuses on techniques to market a business to federal prime contractors, in anticipation of teaming on current and future opportunities.
Free -
Test Flight Pitch Practice at First Flight (HYBRID)
Virtual-ZoomTest Flight is a startup community building event with the purpose of raising the bar for pitches in our region. We host it on the first Tuesday of every month.
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2026 SBC — Fueling Federal Acquisition
Charlotte Convention Center 501 S College Street, Charlotte, NC, United StatesSBC 2026 is The Strategic Business Connection of the Year—the place where opportunity meets mission and where the federal A/E/C community unites to
strengthen partnerships and drive innovation. If you are shaping the future of federal programs, you belong in Charlotte this November.This year, we’re fueling federal acquisition by delivering access to federal agency leaders, real-time contracting insight, and the collaboration needed to support the nation’s most critical infrastructure and security priorities
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NCMMI Northeastern Listening Session
Elizabeth City State University, Kermit E. White Graduate Center 1862 Edgewood Drive, Elizabeth City, United States +1 moreNC State University Industry Expansion Solutions (IES), Elizabeth City State University (ECSU), the Office of Representative Don Davis, and the North Carolina Military Business Center (NCMBC)are hosting a North Carolina Maritime Manufacturing Initiative (NCMMI) Regional Listening Session for Congressional District 1.
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Soft Skills Power-Up – Webinar
Virtual-ZoomGreat safety leaders connect with people, not just policies. This session explores how active listening, awareness, and thoughtful communication help reduce stress responses, improve teamwork, and boost hazard awareness. Gain proven strategies and resources to better support your workforce and elevate safety performance across every level of the organization.
Free -
ISO 9001:2026 Update Webinar + Internal Auditor Transition Workshop
Virtual-ZoomISO 9001:2026 Update Webinar November 10, 2026 10-11 a.m. FREE WEBINAR Please note: We will not issue a certificate for this free update webinar. ISO 9001:2026 introduces several […]
Free – $295 -
MNC Networking Event in Surry County with a Facility Tour of Brown and Church
Small Business Center 190 Virginia Street, Mount Airy, NC, United StatesAgenda:
10:30 am: Arrive at Small Business Center (SBC) for welcome and introductions
190 Virginia Street, Mount Airy, NC 27030 (please use municipal parking lot)11:00 am - 12:00 pm: Walking tour from SBC of Balladeer Hotel (former Historic Spencer's Children's Wear MFG Facility (1926-2006), Valora Event Center)
12:00-1:00 pm: Lunch at SBC, leave by 1:10 pm to travel to Pilot Mountain
1:30-2:30 pm: Brown and Church Neckwear Tour, 118 Mary Moore Drive, Pilot Mountain, NC 27041 Brown & Church, Important Neckwear
2:30-3:00 pm: Return to SBC, 190 Virginia Street, Mount Airy, NC 27030
3:00-3:30 pm: Debrief and departure
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North Carolina Military Business Center and The Protocase Companies Announce Inaugural Velocity Summit
Wilmington, NCThe North Carolina Military Business Center (NCMBC) and The Protocase Companies announced they will co-present the inaugural Velocity Summit on November 17, 2026, in Wilmington, NC. The eventwill convene leaders from industry, the military, government, policy, research, workforce development and the media to help accelerate U.S. defense manufacturing.
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First Flight “Itineraries” (HYBRID)
First Flight Venture Center is delighted to host lunchtime programs, "Itineraries" that offer a chance for members of the First Flight community and broader innovation ecosystem to learn about the work of early-stage science-focused companies, network and have some fun at the same time! An Itinerary is ‘a planned route or journey’ and this program gives companies often who are in residence at First Flight a forum in which to share where they are and where they plan to go.
Free -
Southern Textiles Fall Meetings
Various NC, United StatesThe Southern Textile Association, Inc., established in 1908, is a nonprofit organization for individuals in the textile and related industries with a common interest in all phases of textile manufacturing.
The purpose of the Association as stated in its Charter is to promote good fellowship among its members; to exchange professional knowledge and experience on subjects relating to textile manufacturing; to promote other social, educational, personnel relations, research, and other scientific activities for the benefit of the members, their companies , and the textile industry.
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Introduction to Federal Contracting
Virtual-ZoomThis training is an introduction to doing business with the federal government. Topics trained include: levels of federal purchasing; how the federal government buys products, construction and engineering and non-personal services; marketing a business to the federal government; socio-economic small business programs; registering as a federal contractor; locating, identifying and responding to federal business opportunities; and resources available to assist federal contractors in North Carolina.
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Strengthening America’s Submarine Industrial Base: Opportunities for North Carolina Manufacturers
Virtual-ZoomConnecting North Carolina manufacturers to the nation's submarine supply chain through the North Carolina Maritime Manufacturing Initiative (NCMMI).
Erin Ananian-Gentile joined the North Carolina Military Business Center (NCMBC) in March 2022 and serves as a Regional Program Manager, helping North Carolina businesses pursue federal contracting opportunities, develop strategic partnerships, and strengthen their presence in defense and federal markets.
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FFVC – Happy Hour Featuring
Join First Flight Venture Center for our new monthly happy hour, held on the third Thursday of each month from 4:00–5:30 PM. This gathering is designed to spark meaningful connections and share valuable insights within the entrepreneurial community.
Each month, in addition to networking, we will spotlight a different initiative, educational opportunity, or featured organization—giving you fresh perspectives and resources every time you attend.
Free -
35th Anniversary High Flyer Awards Luncheon
Prestonwood Country Club 300 Prestonwood Parkway, Cary, United StatesOur most anticipated event of the year, High Flyer Awards Luncheon is designated to celebrate and honor those companies and individuals who have contributed to the HIGH SCIENCE, DEEP TECH, HIGH IMPACT, and the entrepreneurial ecosystem as a whole. This event promises not only a unique platform for world-class networking but also an opportunity to join First Flight Venture Center in celebrating those who are shaping the future with their innovative projects.
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Test Flight Pitch Practice at First Flight (HYBRID)
Virtual-ZoomTest Flight is a startup community building event with the purpose of raising the bar for pitches in our region. We host it on the first Tuesday of every month.
Free -
Sewn Goods 101 Workshop
Various NC, United StatesThis on-site, two-day workshop teaches you how to efficiently build a U.S. supply chain and develop successful, long-term relationships with manufacturers. It includes hands-on fabric and materials sessions, guest Q&As with supply chain partners, and tours of manufacturing facilities. Only eight participants are accepted for each workshop*.
$750 -
NCMMI Southeastern Listening Session
UNC-Wilmington Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) 803 College Road, Wilmington, United States +1 moreNC State University Industry Expansion Solutions (IES), UNC-Wilmington, the Office of Representative David Rouzer, and the North Carolina Military Business Center (NCMBC) are hosting a North Carolina Maritime Manufacturing Initiative (NCMMI) Regional Listening Session for Congressional District 7.
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2026 Safety Trivia Challenge – Webinar
Virtual-ZoomJoin us for a fun and interactive webinar packed with OSHA Trivia! Test your knowledge of OSHA standards, regulations and safety practices in this engaging session designed to challenge and entertain. Compete with fellow safety enthusiasts as you tackle questions across a range of topics, from workplace hazards to compliance requirements. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this trivia event is a great way to learn, connect and brush up on key safety facts. Don’t miss the chance to have some fun and sharpen your OSHA expertise—sign up today!
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First Flight “Itineraries” (HYBRID)
First Flight Venture Center is delighted to host lunchtime programs, "Itineraries" that offer a chance for members of the First Flight community and broader innovation ecosystem to learn about the work of early-stage science-focused companies, network and have some fun at the same time! An Itinerary is ‘a planned route or journey’ and this program gives companies often who are in residence at First Flight a forum in which to share where they are and where they plan to go.
Free -
FFVC – Happy Hour Featuring
Join First Flight Venture Center for our new monthly happy hour, held on the third Thursday of each month from 4:00–5:30 PM. This gathering is designed to spark meaningful connections and share valuable insights within the entrepreneurial community.
Each month, in addition to networking, we will spotlight a different initiative, educational opportunity, or featured organization—giving you fresh perspectives and resources every time you attend.
Free -
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Safety Myths Busted – Webinar
Virtual-ZoomEver wonder which “rules” are OSHA requirements—and which are just workplace folklore? This interactive session separates fact from fiction, tackling the most misunderstood regulations, gray areas, and myths that trip up even experienced safety pros. You’ll leave with clarity—and a few surprises.
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2027 North Carolina Manufacturing Conference
Benton Convention Center 301 West 5th Street, Winston-Salem, NC, United StatesThe North Carolina Manufacturing Conference, MFGCON, offers opportunities to meet vendors, network with industry peers and learn about resources and processes to grow your business. During the conference, Industry Expansion Solutions presents the State Manufacturing Leadership Awards that honor outstanding manufacturers for their achievements, celebrate successes and showcase the incredible work happening in North Carolina’s manufacturing sector.
