Tough Tech Dual-Use Day 2026: One Year of SHIELD
Event Overview:
Massachusetts is a leader in defense innovation and dual-use technology. Mark your calendar for a high-impact, half-day conference celebrating a year of rapid growth, key milestones, and the future of defense tech across the Commonwealth.
Hosted by MassTech’s Strategic Hub for Innovation, Exchange and Leadership in Defense (SHIELD), the Northeast Microelectronics Coalition (NEMC), and The Engine at BASE-X (60 State St, Boston), Tough Tech Dual-Use Day 2026 brings together defense primes, investors, academic leaders, and startups under one roof.
This integrated session encompasses Advanced Materials, Autonomy, Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing, and Microelectronics. Attendees will seamlessly engage with the topics most relevant to their interests, gaining direct insight into upcoming opportunities, prime contracting needs, and emerging pathways designed to fast-track technology-to-capability transition.
Space is limited. Please request an invitation early to secure your spot!
Agenda Overview:
Welcome & Executive Remarks: Kick off the morning with state leadership, celebrating one year of momentum since the SHIELD Executive Order.
NEMC Member Updates & Ecosystem Announcements: Hear the latest on regional defense-tech initiatives, including NEMC member updates, alongside exciting announcements for established key programs.
Affinity Networking Sessions: Interactive breakout sessions utilizing BASE-X spaces for targeted, face-to-face networking with investors, primes, and peers across Advanced Materials, Autonomy, Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing, and Microelectronics.
Spotlight - Startup Lightning Pitches: Discover the next wave of defense tech. Leading startups will showcase breakthrough capabilities and readiness for transition directly to attending prime contractors (DIBs) and venture capitalists.
Networking Luncheon: Connect informally over lunch with founders, investors, defense primes, and ecosystem leaders before afternoon travel.