North Carolina’s textile industry plays a critical role in national security - producing combat uniforms, protective gear, parachutes, tents, medical PPE, and advanced wearable technologies that equip and protect America’s warfighters. As global instability and supply chain challenges grow, maintaining a strong, innovative U.S.-based textile industrial base is more important than ever.
On May 19–20, 2026, the Federal and Defense Textile and Tactical Equipment (FEDTEX) Summit will convene to strengthen that mission. Hosted by the Offices of US Senator Thom Tillis and US Senator Ted Budd and the North Carolina Military Business Center, FEDTEX connects U.S. Department of Defense and federal agency buyers directly with domestic textile manufacturers, suppliers, researchers, and testing partners. Drawing companies from more than 40 states and Puerto Rico, FEDTEX serves as a premier marketplace focused exclusively on defense textile engagement.
The DoD invests more than $5 billion annually in Berry Amendment-compliant textiles, clothing, footwear, and tactical equipment. FEDTEX helps ensure this investment strengthens domestic production by clarifying requirements, building partnerships, and expanding supply chain resilience.
Designed for both established contractors and new entrants, FEDTEX provides practical guidance on federal contracting, proposal development, and major procurement vehicles such as DLA’s Tailored Logistics Support program. Attendees gain insight into procurement tools, demand forecasting, and future re-bid opportunities across thousands of textile line items.
FEDTEX also highlights emerging technologies shaping defense textiles, including robotics-enabled manufacturing, AI-driven production, smart textiles, wearable monitoring systems, and advanced protective materials. Sessions explore funding pathways such as SBIR and STTR programs, along with collaborative initiatives advancing warfighter health, safety, and performance.
Research institutions including North Carolina State University’s Wilson College of Textiles and North Carolina A&T State University contribute expertise in textile engineering and advanced materials, reinforcing FEDTEX as more than a contracting forum - it is a convergence of government requirements, industry capability, and innovation.
Additional programming addresses Berry Amendment compliance, sustainability, PFAS regulations, workforce development, and service-specific acquisition priorities across the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Homeland Security.
Sponsorships and exhibit spaces are available, offering companies enhanced visibility and direct engagement with federal buyers and industry leaders, in addition to standard attendee registration.
FEDTEX is where suppliers meet buyers, innovation and textile capability meet national defense. Join industry leaders and military decision-makers May 19–20, 2026, to help shape the future of America’s defense textile mission.
For more information the FEDTEX visit: https://fedtex.ncmbc.us/ or contact Lee Moritz, moritzl@ncmbc.us. For more information on the NCMBC visit: https://www.ncmbc.us/.
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