Events
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Swiss Biotech Day
Swiss Biotech Day, Basel (May 3–5, 2026)
Join us at one of Europe’s premier biotech conferences with a North Carolina delegation booth and access to a robust partnering platform for pre-scheduled B2B meetings. Network with global biotech leaders, investors, and potential partners in the heart of Switzerland’s life sciences hub.Vienna, Austria (May 7-8, 2026) – Targeted B2B & Ecosystem Meetings
After Basel, our consultants will arrange custom meetings in Vienna’s thriving biotech cluster—home to 550+ life sciences companies, leading research institutions, and a gateway to Central & Eastern Europe. -
Swiss Biotech Day 2026
Since 2021, the Swiss Biotech Day has grown 40% every year and has become a premier global biotechnology conference for life sciences professionals, fostering international collaboration and impactful partnerships. In 2025 it attracted more than 3,000 participants from 49 countries, including 25 international delegations.
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AME Charlotte – 2026 Lean Summit
Embassy Suites Concord 5400 John Q. Hammons Dr NW, Concord, NC, United StatesPeople driving excellence — banking on success
Elevate excellence in the Queen City! Join us for the AME Charlotte 2026 Lean Summit, hosted by the AME Southeastern Region. This can’t-miss event is designed to help you drive lasting change, strengthen your lean practices and lead with people-centric purpose.
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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 -
Instron Road Show
Instron is excited to invite you to a no-cost event on Tuesday May 5th at the Polymers Center of Excellence. This event brings together the latest materials testing technology and Instron application experts to answer questions, provide tips and insights for Bluehill Universal software, and give you hands-on time with the latest Instron testing equipment. We hope you can join us.
Free -
Taking the Leap
Raleigh, NC Raleigh, NC, United StatesEmbarking on a business journey without proper guidance can feel overwhelming. Why take the leap without the essential tools for success?
These cohorts offer an opportunity for high-potential startups and founders to network with fellow entrepreneurs, exchange ideas, and gain invaluable insights. With a focus on interactive learning, participants will receive personalized guidance from experienced instructors and guest mentors.
Free -
Small Business Day
Sheraton Imperial Hotel Raleigh-Durham Airport at Research Triangle Park 4700 Emperor Blvd, 282 Page Rd I-40, Durham, NC, United StatesWe are excited to invite small business owners, partners, and entrepreneurs to Small Business Day 2026, hosted by the SBTDC. This year’s focus is on the health of Small Business; a priority increasingly shaped by the ever-changing economic landscape.
$35 -
Cyber in Manufacturing Lunch & Learn
Virtual-ZoomThis session moves beyond presentations and into a live, interactive tabletop exercise designed to strengthen decision‑making, communication, and crisis response in a realistic manufacturing‑focused cyber scenario. Lunch will be provided, and all attendees will receive the Broken Conveyor Case Packet in advance to prepare.
Space is limited, so please RSVP if you plan to attend. We’d love to have you there.Free -
Taking the Leap
Virtual-ZoomEmbarking on a business journey without proper guidance can feel overwhelming. Why take the leap without the essential tools for success?
These cohorts offer an opportunity for high-potential startups and founders to network with fellow entrepreneurs, exchange ideas, and gain invaluable insights. With a focus on interactive learning, participants will receive personalized guidance from experienced instructors and guest mentors.
Free -
Defense Communities National Summit
Washington, DC Washington, DC, United StatesADC50 is a three-day, integrated celebration of Association of Defense Communities (ADC)’s 50th anniversary, May 11–13, 2026, in Washington, DC. Bringing together a special edition of the Defense Communities National Summit and our signature anniversary event, A Celebration of America’s Defense Communities, ADC50 will convene more than 1,500 leaders from the Department of Defense (DoD), Congress, installations, industry, and communities. This once-in-a-generation moment will honor five decades of partnership and rally the nation around a simple truth: national security starts at home, in the defense communities whose strength, resilience, and unwavering support allow missions—and military families—to thrive.
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Thrive Lab: Business Skills for Sustainable Growth
Wilmington, NCReady to take your business to the next level? Apply now to CIE’s Thrive Lab.
In this 3+ month program, you will develop a network, learn new skills, and receive the mentoring needed to think like a CEO, CFO, and CPO – all while maintaining what’s best about your small business. From building strong foundations in finance, funding, sales, and leadership, unlock the potential of your business – and yourself – so businesses can scale and survive the test of time.
$750 -
Metallurgical Engineering Trades Apprenticeships & Learning (METAL)
NC State Centennial Campus 1005 Capability Drive Suite 200, RaleighThe Metallurgical Engineering Trades Apprenticeships & Learning (METAL) program aims to reverse the decline of the U.S. casting and forging workforce while inspiring a new generation of metallurgical professionals. Guided by industry and faculty experts, participants gain hands-on experience and clear pathways into careers in metal casting, forging, and advanced metals manufacturing.
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Laying the Foundation for Your Innovation Journey
PORTAL Building, UNC Charlotte 9319 Robert D. Snyder Road, Charlotte, NC, United StatesThis afternoon training session is designed for UNC-Charlotte affiliated faculty members seeking to advance innovative ideas from concept to market. The program provides a practical overview of key funding pathways, including non-dilutive SBIR/STTR opportunities and equity-based financing, along with essential legal considerations for business development. Participants will also gain insights into intellectual property strategy and technology commercialization through an expert panel discussion.
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2026 Reactive Extrusion (REX) Workshop
It’s not a conference, it's a workshop!
Leistritz Extrusion will host the 2026 Reactive Extrusion (REX) Workshop, a first-time event to be held at the Polymers Center of Excellence (PCE) in Charlotte, NC, USA. In addition to classroom sessions, REX twin screw extrusion systems and analytical testing methods will be demonstrated at the PCE facility.$1280 -
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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Building Resilient Supply Chains: The Power of Domestic Sourcing – Webinar
Virtual-ZoomFinding the right supplier is crucial for reducing risk, ensuring product quality, and building a resilient business—especially in the face of fluctuating global trade policies. This webinar introduces a powerful tool: the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership’s supplier program.
Free -
Innovation and Technology Quarterly Industry Forum
Virtual-ZoomJoin the North Carolina Military Business Center for our quarterly industry-related forums that spotlight key federal opportunities and strengthen connections across North Carolina’s federal and defense contracting ecosystem. Each industry-specific quarterly session will connect businesses, government agencies, and prime contractors to discuss:
Upcoming contracting opportunities and capability gaps
Market and policy trends shaping the industry
Success stories and lessons learned from peers
Strategies for growth in the federal marketplaceFree -
Export Education: Export Compliance 201 Webinar
Virtual-ZoomHave you ever wondered if there is a better way to export/import and save the company money? Did you realize that just putting $1.00 or some random value on a commercial invoice for customs purposes on so-called "samples" really isn't the proper way to value your shipments? This program will help you be in full compliance with a whole host of US export/import regulations. You will know the proper standards by which to determine origin and begin to label the origin of your items. Most companies are using the incorrect values on their commercial invoices, EEI's and other documents to "help" a foreign customer. Learn how to properly handle valuations on drop shipments, samples, warranties, repairs and replacements for customs purposes. Come and learn about the FCPA, Successor Liability and how this affects you.
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The Global Stage For Special Operations Forces
Tampa Convention Center 333 S. Franklin Street, Tampa, FL, United States +1 moreSOF Week 2025 was the premier global gathering of special operators, industry leaders, and strategic partners. The event fostered collaboration, innovation, and excellence, showcasing the cutting-edge capabilities and strategies that define modern special operations.
$105 – $800 -
Seed the South Capital Summit
Charlotte, NC Charlotte, NC, United StatesJoin us at Seed The South Capital Summit which is a premier venture capital event that facilitates valuable connections among founders, funders, and support organizations in the Southeast region.
Various Prices -
Stoll M1 Plus Innovation and Training Center
Manufacturing Solutions Center II 350 5th Avenue SE, Conover,, NCStoll 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 -
FEDTEX: Federal and Defense Textile and Tactical Equipment Summit
McKimmon Conference and Training Center 1101 Gorman Street, Raleigh, NC, United StatesThe Federal and Defense Textile and Tactical Equipment (FEDTEX) Summit, hosted by the Office of US Senator Thom Tillis, Office of Senator Ted Budd and the North Carolina Military Business Center (NCMBC), connects the US Department of Defense (DoD) and federal agency clothing and individual equipment buyers with US textile manufacturers, textile supply chain suppliers, cut and sew contractors, research and development (R&D) facilities, testing labs and academic resources.
Free – $200 -
Small Business Outreach Event, Coastal Carolina Community College
Coastal Carolina Community College James Melton Vocational Skills Bldg., Room 104 B/C, 444 Western Blvd, Jacksonville, NC, United StatesPurpose of the Outreach Event.
Inform and educate businesses on the North Carolina-based support organizations available to assist businesses in becoming eligible and competitive for Department of Defense contracts.
Inform businesses on how to do business with the various contracting organizations aboard Camp Lejeune.
Provide businesses general information on upcoming opportunities.Free -
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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Open Doors, Open Futures: Inside Successful MFG Day Events
The Manufacturing Institute , United States +1 moreMFG Day is more than an open house—it’s one of the most effective tools you have for building community connections, inspiring the next generation and growing your local talent pipeline. But what does it take to deliver an event that truly moves the needle?
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Driving Breakthrough Results with Hoshin Kanri – Webinar
Virtual-ZoomHosted By: Coming Soon! Join us in a session on Hoshin Kanri, the method that connects long-term vision with daily execution. You’ll discover how to set and prioritize […]
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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.
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FFVC – Barbecue, Brews and Band
Join First Flight Venture Center for our annual Barbecue, Brews & Band, a signature community event that brings together entrepreneurs, partners, sponsors, and friends of FFVC. Enjoy great barbecue, local brews, and live music while connecting with founders, leaders, and supporters from across the region. This relaxed event is a celebration of the innovation ecosystem and the community that makes FFVC thrive. Whether you are part of the FFVC community or joining us for the first time, we look forward to celebrating with you.
$40 -
Mastering Pelletizing: Presented by The MAAG Group
From Melt to Great Pellets and Happy Customers
In the world of plastics processing, pellets are at the heart of production. But how do you transform a turbulent polymer melt into perfectly uniform, dust-free, free-flowing pellets? The answer lies in mastering strand and underwater pelletizing.
This course is not a dry theory lesson. It is your shortcut to maximum process efficiency and first-class product quality. We take an in-depth look at the “engine room” of pelletizing and show you how to exploit the full potential of your equipment.
$495 -
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 -
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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 -
Taking the Leap
Wilmington, NCEmbarking on a business journey without proper guidance can feel overwhelming. Why take the leap without the essential tools for success?
These cohorts offer an opportunity for high-potential startups and founders to network with fellow entrepreneurs, exchange ideas, and gain invaluable insights. With a focus on interactive learning, participants will receive personalized guidance from experienced instructors and guest mentors.
Free -
National Small Business Matchmaking Series
McKimmon Conference and Training Center 1101 Gorman Street, Raleigh, NC, United StatesThe National Small Business Matchmaking Series is a premier initiative designed to bridge the gap between local small businesses and the federal marketplace. Our mission is to empower American entrepreneurs by providing the tools and connections necessary to succeed in federal contracting.
Free -
Export 101 and Speed Networking
A-B Tech Community College 340 Victoria Road, Asheville, NC, United StatesWhy Export?
Creating Your International Strategy: Market Research and Identifying Best Prospect Markets
Logistics Panel
How to Find, Qualify, and Motivate Foreign Buyers and Partners
Luncheon Keynote
Compliance and Export Documentation
Export Resource Panel: NC Federal and State Export Resource
Methods of Payment and Foreign Exchange Risk
Legal Considerations for Exporting$75 – $125 -
What’s Hot at OSHA – Webinar
Virtual-ZoomIn this session, we’ll unpack the new heat standard proposal, key emphasis areas and the latest safety initiatives making waves. Stay cool and stay compliant with a sneak peek at what’s hot on OSHA’s agenda.
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 -
New SBA 7(a) Manufacturers’ Access to Revolving Credit (MARC) Loans – Webinar
Virtual-ZoomThe MARC Program is SBA’s first-ever loan program dedicated to supporting America’s small manufacturers, which make up 98% of all U.S. manufacturers.
Free -
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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Legwear Development for Entrepreneurs
Manufacturing Solutions Center II 350 5th Avenue SE, Conover,, NCThis two-day opportunity will educate you about the product that you wish to build your business around. The Legwear Development course covers:
The basics of hosiery knitting, dyeing, finishing, and testing quality of the manufacturing process
Tour our facilities to view first hand knitting, finishing and testing equipment
Discuss the necessary steps to increase your chances of success in the hosiery industry
Business development resources to help make sure that you cover your bases as you build your business plan
Packaging for your product will also be discussed$1000 -
Export Education | International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR)
Virtual-ZoomAre you compliant with all ITAR regulations? Do you know if you are required to be registered with ITAR? When was the last time you reviewed the US Munitions list (USML) to see if any of your products were on it? Did you know they have “de-classified” many items and moved them from the USML to the less restrictive Commerce Control List (CCL). Domestic manufacturers of ITAR items need to be registered even if they never export directly. Has it been some time since your last training program?
Free
