JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
The 316th Contracting Squadron hosted the Air Force District of Washington Small Business Summit at The General Jacob E. Smart Conference Center on Andrews, May 14, 2026, bringing together small business owners, acquisition professionals, government agencies and mission partners to strengthen collaboration and expand federal contracting opportunities.
The sessions offered critical insights into anticipated contracting requirements for fiscal years 2026 and 2027.
“Our goal for the summit is to maximize opportunities for United States-owned small businesses to...deliver combat power that our Airmen and Guardians need, while simultaneously growing the economic power of our nation”said U.S. Air Force Col. Mindy Davitch, 316th Mission Support Group commander.
Attendees moved between mission briefs, networking sessions and acquisition panels designed to connect industry representatives directly with contracting officials andleadershipacross the National Capital Region.
Organizations participating in the event included the Small Business Administration Washington Metro Office, Maryland Department of Commerce, Maryland Business Opportunity Center, Veterans Business Outreach Center and Maryland APEX Accelerator.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our community; by working with them directly we are supporting the local economy and strengthening ties with our community,” said U.S. Air Force 2nd Lt. Darya Macmillan, 316th Contracting Squadron officer in charge, services and commodities. “The 2026 AFDW Small Business Summit was designed to ensure our local partners were empowered to navigate the federal acquisition process.”
Joint Base Andrews continues to prioritize outreach initiatives that connect industry partners with government opportunities while fostering long-term relationships that support both mission success and economic growth throughout the National Capital Region.