Di2: Defense Innovate and Integrate Summit
2024
Connecting Innovators to National Security
Thursday, Nov. 14
Michigan State University – Management Center, Troy
ABOUT
What is the Di2 Summit about?
How are the Armed Services and Homeland Security sourcing, purchasing, and integrating new technologies into their operations? Join us at the Di2 Summit to connect with key decision-makers, explore advanced solutions, and gain access to essential resources to propel your business forward. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to position your company at the cutting edge of the defense industry. Register now to secure your spot!
Sponsored By
Oakland County Executive Office:
Committed to fostering economic growth and innovation in the region, supporting initiatives that enhance the local defense and aerospace sectors.
MEDC Office of Defense & Aerospace Innovation:
Committed to fostering economic growth and innovation in the region, supporting initiatives that enhance the local defense and aerospace sectors.
UM Economic Growth Institute:
Collaborates with businesses to stimulate economic development, providing resources and expertise to support defense sector innovation.
ERDCWERX:
A collaborative innovation hub connecting the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center with industry and academia to accelerate technology development.
National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA):
NDIA-Michigan Chapter is a membership-
based organization with a passion for bridging the gap between those who provide and those
who use the best and latest in equipment and technology to keep our nation and its defenders
safe.
Sponsored By
Oakland County Executive Office:
Committed to fostering economic growth and innovation in the region, supporting initiatives that enhance the local defense and aerospace sectors.
MEDC Office of Defense & Aerospace Innovation:
Committed to fostering economic growth and innovation in the region, supporting initiatives that enhance the local defense and aerospace sectors.
UM Economic Growth Institute:
Collaborates with businesses to stimulate economic development, providing resources and expertise to support defense sector innovation.
ERDCWERX:
A collaborative innovation hub connecting the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center with industry and academia to accelerate technology development.
National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA):
NDIA-Michigan Chapter is a membership-
based organization with a passion for bridging the gap between those who provide and those
who use the best and latest in equipment and technology to keep our nation and its defenders
safe.
SCHEDULE DETAILS
Event Agenda
- 8:00 - 8:30 AM
Networking Breakfast
- 8:30 - 8:45 AM
Welcome/Opening Comments
- David Coulter, Oakland County Executive
- Col. John Gutierrez, USMC (Ret.), Director of Michigan’s Office of Defense & Aerospace Innovation
- 8:45 - 9:15 AM
U.S. Air Force Civil Engineer Center
- Brian Skibba, Chief Airbase Technologies Branch (CXAE)
- 9:15 - 9:45 AM
DIUx (Defense Innovation Unit), DOD
- Marvin D. Yates, Program Director National Security Innovation Network
- 9:45 – 10:00 AM
Networking Break
- 10:15 - 11:30 AM
U.S. DoD Microelectronics and CHIPS Act
- Bryan Smith, Microelectronics Commons Execution Advisor
- Shaun Davis, Strategic & Spectrum Missions Advanced Resilient
Trusted Systems (S2MARTS) Program Manager at Naval Surface
Warfare Center, Crane Division
- 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
SpaceFund Venture Capital
- Meagan Crawford, Founder, Managing Partner
- 12:00 - 1:15 PM
Lunch Provided
- 1:15 - 2:15 PM
Panel Topic: Innovation (with DefenseWERX)
A panel of DefenseWERX representatives will discuss opportunities for collaboration between the private sector and the Department of Defense (DoD) to address critical defense needs through innovative technologies. The panel will cover how businesses can engage with DefenseWERX’s network of innovation hubs, such as SOFWERX and ERDCWERX, to develop solutions in areas like cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing. Additionally, the discussion will highlight the process for submitting ideas, gaining DoD contracts, and leveraging government-industry partnerships to accelerate product development for defense applications.
- ERDCWERX, Janice Karcher, Deputy Director (U.S. Army
Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC)) - SOFWERX, David Akers, Sr. Program Manager, (United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM))
- 2:15 - 2:30 PM
Networking Break
- 2:30 - 3:30 PM
Panel Topic: Integration (Moderated by Ricardo Defense)
A panel of Integration representatives will explore strategies for addressing the complexities of integrating systems, processes, and technologies within military and homeland security environments. Discussions will focus on managing the lifecycle of complex systems, mitigating schedule risks, and overcoming impediments to successful capability development and integration. Panelists will provide insights into linking requirements, industry, and stakeholders to enhance system architectures, acquisition processes, and organizational structures, ensuring that new technologies effectively support warfighter needs.
- Rick Wyrembelski, Executive Vice President, Strategic Programs
& Partnerships, Ricardo Defense Inc. - Dr. Dan Braille, Professor for Defense Policy, Foreign Policy, and
International Politics, Wayne State University - Elaine Taylor, Aerospace, Defense, and Automotive Industry
Development and Marketing Leader, Marketing Department Inc. - Phil Wills, Director of Business Development, VES LLC
- Jonathan Dorny, Director of Business Development, Ricardo
Defense
- 3:30 - 3:45 PM
Networking Break
- 3:45 - 4:30 PM
Breakout Sessions (APEX, SBA, DefenseWERX)
APEX Accelerators: Leveraging the Technical Assistance and Resources of Your Local APEX Accelerator
- The APEX Accelerators is a national program funded in part by the Department of Defense’s Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP). Learn how to leverage our no cost services to help you navigate government points of entry, identify innovation funding opportunities, and elevate your capabilities to government customers.
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA): Discover Small Business Certifications for Federal Contract Opportunities
- The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) in Michigan supports small businesses by offering a range of resources, including access to financing tools and small business certifications. They provide assistance with securing loans, navigating the certification process for federal contracts, and obtaining crucial business development support to enhance growth and competitiveness.
DefenseWERX: Learn How to Connect Your Business with DefenseWERX
- DefenseWERX representatives will discuss opportunities for collaboration between the private sector and the Department of Defense (DoD) to address critical defense needs through innovative technologies. Learn how businesses can engage with DefenseWERX’s network of innovation hubs.
- 4:30 PM
Event Concludes/Reception Begins
ABOUT
The Southeast Michigan Region
The Summit is proudly hosted by the Oakland County Executive office, situated in the heart of the Midwest, just a 30-minute drive from Detroit Metropolitan Airport, a Delta hub offering frequent and affordable flights. Oakland County’s strategic location provides easy access to key states like Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, and all of Michigan. Under the leadership of Oakland County Executive David Coulter, the region is committed to fostering innovation and supporting non-traditional innovators, manufacturers, engineers, and solution providers. Attendees will benefit from convenient transportation options, including organized pick-ups or rideshare services. In addition to its accessibility, Oakland County is surrounded by top-tier institutions such as the University of Michigan, Michigan Tech University, Lawrence Tech University, Michigan State University, Purdue, Kettering University, Ohio University, Notre Dame, University of Illinois, and the University of Wisconsin, strengthening the region’s reputation for innovation. Oakland County’s active participation in the Midwest Micro Electronics Commons Program further highlights its role as a hub for cutting-edge technology and collaboration in the Midwest.
ABOUT
Hotel Reservations
WHO WILL BE THERE
Keynote speakers
Department of Defense and DefenseWERX Hubs
DefenseWERX fosters innovation and collaboration among the Department of Defense, industry, academia, and non-traditional partners to develop technology solutions for national security challenges. Speakers from ERDCWERX, SOFWERX, and HSWERX will share insights, with AFWERX also invited. Their collective budget is around $3.5 billion.
U.S. Air Force Civil Engineer Center, Chief Airbase Technologies Branch (CXAE)
The CXAE operates with an annual budget of approximately $4 billion, seeking suppliers and engineers to design, build, and maintain Air Force facilities while delivering innovative solutions for construction and environmental challenges.
U.S. Department of the Army
This team is responsible for integrating cutting-edge technologies into existing Army equipment and systems, ensuring operational readiness and efficiency while supporting the modernization of military capabilities across various platforms. The Army has a budget of approximately $177 billion for the fiscal year.
DoD National Security Innovation Network (NSIN)
NSIN connects innovative technologies from businesses with funding opportunities for defense programs, promoting collaboration between industry and the Department of Defense. The NSIN has an annual budget of around $20 million to support innovation initiatives.
Naval Surface Warfare Center
This office is tasked with S2MARTS, facilitating collaboration to develop advanced, resilient technology solutions for national security and spectrum mission challenges. Their budget for advanced technology development is about $1.5 billion annually.
Microelectronics (ME) Commons
The Navy Crane oversees funding and programs focused on the microelectronics supply chain, ensuring seamless support across all DOD initiatives. Their microelectronics programs are funded with approximately $400 million.
Ricardo Defense and VES LLC
These companies will collaborate to share expertise in innovative defense solutions, emphasizing their commitment to enhancing national security through strategic partnerships.
Wayne State University
A representative will contribute insights on academic collaboration and research innovations, highlighting the importance of partnerships in advancing national security initiatives.
Defense Innovation Unit (DIU)
The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) is a U.S. Department of Defense organization that partners with private-sector companies to rapidly identify and adopt commercial technology for military use. By bridging the gap between Silicon Valley innovation and the defense sector, DIU supports initiatives in areas like artificial intelligence, autonomy, cybersecurity, and space.
Glenn Jenkins
Founder, Figma
Peter Evans
Founder, Figma
Amora Newman
Founder, Figma
Amora Newman
Founder, Figma
Wong Strange
Founder, Figma
Scarlett Johannson
Founder, Figma
WHO WILL BE THERE
Keynote speakers
Department of Defense and DefenseWERX Hubs
DefenseWERX fosters innovation and collaboration among the Department of Defense, industry, academia, and non-traditional partners to develop technology solutions for national security challenges. Speakers from ERDCWERX, SOFWERX, and HSWERX will share insights, with AFWERX also invited. Their collective budget is around $3.5 billion.
U.S. Air Force Civil Engineer Center, Chief Airbase Technologies Branch (CXAE)
The CXAE operates with an annual budget of approximately $4 billion, seeking suppliers and engineers to design, build, and maintain Air Force facilities while delivering innovative solutions for construction and environmental challenges.
U.S. Department of the Army
This team is responsible for integrating cutting-edge technologies into existing Army equipment and systems, ensuring operational readiness and efficiency while supporting the modernization of military capabilities across various platforms. The Army has a budget of approximately $177 billion for the fiscal year.
DoD National Security Innovation Network (NSIN)
NSIN connects innovative technologies from businesses with funding opportunities for defense programs, promoting collaboration between industry and the Department of Defense. The NSIN has an annual budget of around $20 million to support innovation initiatives.
Naval Surface Warfare Center
This office is tasked with S2MARTS, facilitating collaboration to develop advanced, resilient technology solutions for national security and spectrum mission challenges. Their budget for advanced technology development is about $1.5 billion annually.
Microelectronics (ME) Commons
The Navy Crane oversees funding and programs focused on the microelectronics supply chain, ensuring seamless support across all DOD initiatives. Their microelectronics programs are funded with approximately $400 million.
Ricardo Defense and VES LLC
These companies will collaborate to share expertise in innovative defense solutions, emphasizing their commitment to enhancing national security through strategic partnerships.
Wayne State University
A representative will contribute insights on academic collaboration and research innovations, highlighting the importance of partnerships in advancing national security initiatives.
Defense Innovation Unit (DIU)
The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) is a U.S. Department of Defense organization that partners with private-sector companies to rapidly identify and adopt commercial technology for military use. By bridging the gap between Silicon Valley innovation and the defense sector, DIU supports initiatives in areas like artificial intelligence, autonomy, cybersecurity, and space.
Glenn Jenkins
Founder, Figma
Peter Evans
Founder, Figma
Amora Newman
Founder, Figma
Amora Newman
Founder, Figma
Wong Strange
Founder, Figma
Scarlett Johannson
Founder, Figma
Sponsor Benefits
- Brand Visibility & Exposure
- Targeted Marketing
- Networking Opportunities
- Thought Leadership & Credibility
- Market Intelligence
- Corporate Social Responsibility
- Brand Loyalty & Customer Retention
- Data & Analytics and Attendees
- Customizable Sponsorship Packages
Don’t see what you want to do?
Let us work with you to design a package that works for you!
Become a Sponsor
PLATINUM: $10,000
- 4 Tickets
- Exhibitor Table
- Opportunity to speak at Cocktail Reception
- Signage
- On-stage recognition during program
- Video shown during breaks (produced by sponsor)
- Logo on event website
GOLD: $7,500
- 4 Tickets
- Exhibitor Table
- Signage
- On-stage recognition during program
- Video shown during breaks (produced by sponsor)
- Logo on event website
SILVER: $5,000
- 2 Tickets
- Exhibitor Table
- Signage
- Video shown during breaks (produced by sponsor)
- Logo on event website
BRONZE: $2,500
- 2 Tickets
- Exhibitor Table
- Signage
- Logo on event website
BOOTH: $1,000
- 2 Tickets
- Exhibitor Table
- Listed on event website
Resource Exhibitors
APEX:
APEX is a comprehensive program designed to support small businesses in navigating the defense contracting landscape, providing valuable resources and connections to enhance
their competitiveness.
SBA (Small Business Administration):
The SBA is a government agency that aids small
businesses through funding options, counseling, and various resources, helping them thrive in competitive markets.
Book your Seat Now!
SCHEDULE DETAILS
Event Schedule
James Killer
UX Lead, Shopify
Inclusion is not your job!
- 9:30 AM
Marissa Louie
UX Lead, Shopify
Uplevelling design at SiriusXM & Pandora
- 9:30 AM
Robert Pattinson
UX Lead, Shopify
The reason you are failing and how to fix it
- 9:30 AM
Marissa Louie
UX Lead, Shopify
Uplevelling design at SiriusXM & Pandora
- 9:30 AM
Robert Pattinson
UX Lead, Shopify
The reason you are failing and how to fix it
- 9:30 AM
James Killer
UX Lead, Shopify
Inclusion is not your job!
- 9:30 AM
James Killer
UX Lead, Shopify
Inclusion is not your job!
- 9:30 AM
Robert Pattinson
UX Lead, Shopify
The reason you are failing and how to fix it
- 9:30 AM
Marissa Louie
UX Lead, Shopify
Uplevelling design at SiriusXM & Pandora
- 9:30 AM
SCHEDULE DETAILS
Get your ticket
Standard Ticket
$49
- Full access to all lectures & workshops
- Video presentation
- Meet all of our event speakers
Premium Ticket
$79
- Full access to all lectures & workshops
- Video presentation
- Meet all of our event speakers
VIP Ticket
$99
- Full access to all lectures & workshops
- Video presentation
- Meet all of our event speakers
SCHEDULE DETAILS
Frequently asked questions
Find the relable queries and its answer that will help you understand our service better. If you still don’t find the answer you are looking for you can contact us too.
Find the relable queries and its answer that will help you understand our service better. If you still don’t find the answer you are looking for you can contact us too.
Find the relable queries and its answer that will help you understand our service better. If you still don’t find the answer you are looking for you can contact us too.
Find the relable queries and its answer that will help you understand our service better. If you still don’t find the answer you are looking for you can contact us too.