Sessions

Join us for breakfast and socializing before we kick things off.

Join us for the opening keynote with a surprise guest!

We'll take a break for coffee and socializing before kicking things off again.

We’ll explore how early-stage companies can effectively partner with large defense contractors, from navigating procurement cycles to aligning on technical milestones and security requirements. Founders will share perspectives from their entrepreneurial journeys, while CEOs will bring insight from their leadership within established primes. While we anticipate a lively exchange of ideas (with some spicy takes), the ultimate goal is to showcase collaboration and shared purpose in strengthening the National Security ecosystem.

We’ll examine how early-stage defense-tech startups can effectively capture end-user feedback from operational units. Panelists will share lessons learned from commanding in training and innovation environments—offering practical insights on how to integrate at the tactical level, navigate initiatives like Transformation in Contact, and translate field feedback into meaningful product iteration.

We'll take a break for coffee and socializing before kicking things off again.

This event explores how founders and investors are driving the resurgence of advanced manufacturing, supply chain resilience, and dual-use technologies to strengthen economic competitiveness and national security.

Defense experts bring firsthand perspectives on combat challenges and how technology can transform outcomes on the battlefield and beyond.

We'll take a break for lunch and socializing before kicking things off in the afternoon.

This event highlights the intersection of defense technology and AI, bringing together founders, investors, and operators who are shaping this critical space.

Join our expert venture judges in watching and grading a pitch competition with companies pushing the line forward in defense.

High-ranking officials from past and present highlight why defense innovation is vital for national security and economic resilience.

Experts on cyber security discuss emerging threats and the technologies shaping tomorrow’s digital battlefield.

We'll take a break for coffee and socializing before the final sessions of the afternoon.

Top venture capital investors from across the industry share how they evaluate, fund, and support the next wave of defense startups.

Qasar’s journey embodies the American dream: from engineer at GM and Bosch, to founder of a startup acquired by Google, and COO of Y Combinator while Sam Altman was President —where he partnered with companies including OpenAI, Cruise, DoorDash, GitLab, Coinbase, and Flexport. Now, as co-founder of Applied Intuition—valued at $15B and trusted by 18 of the top 20 automakers—he’s building the software backbone for safe, intelligent machines across defense and commercial industries. With immigrant grit, startup savvy, and deep tech roots, Qasar is a leading voice at the intersection of Silicon Valley and national security.