How to bid on the ManTech No-Cost Conference support for the Dept of Defense

What the agency is buying and why it matters

The Department of Defense needs contractor support to plan and execute events for its Manufacturing Technology (ManTech) program. This includes the annual Defense Flexible Manufacturing Conference (DFMC). This conference brings together industry and government to discuss the ManTech program and the advanced manufacturing industrial base. This is a no-cost, non-personal services requirement, meaning the contractor will not be paid directly by the government for their services, but rather through other means such as sponsorships or attendee fees.

This opportunity is for firms that can manage and deliver significant events, providing a valuable chance to work with the Department of Defense on a high-profile initiative. It offers a way to engage with key stakeholders in advanced manufacturing and defense.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This solicitation was published on September 10, 2026. The deadline for submitting your response is September 28, 2026, at 12:00 PM Eastern Time. All proposals must be submitted by this exact time. Late submissions are generally not accepted, so it is crucial to submit your response well in advance of the deadline.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for professional services firms with expertise in event planning, conference management, and logistics, especially those familiar with government and industry collaborations. Firms with experience in the manufacturing technology or defense sectors would be particularly well-suited. The requirement is for non-personal services, indicating a need for an independent contractor to manage event execution.

How to respond to this solicitation

To access the full solicitation details and prepare your response, you will need to go to the original source portal. Click the 'View original source' link. If the first click takes you to the portal's homepage, simply click the link again to navigate directly to the bid. You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all associated documents, though this is not always necessary for every bid.

Practical tips for a competitive response

When preparing your response, clearly demonstrate your firm's experience in planning and executing large-scale events, particularly conferences involving multiple stakeholders like government and industry. Highlight any past successes in managing 'no-cost' events, detailing how you secured funding or resources. Emphasize your understanding of the ManTech program and the advanced manufacturing industrial base, as this shows direct relevance to the agency's mission.

Ensure your proposal is well-organized, concise, and directly addresses all requirements outlined in the solicitation. Pay close attention to any specific instructions for proposal format and content. Proofread carefully to eliminate any errors, as a professional and polished submission reflects positively on your firm's attention to detail.