He said the Defence Procurement Conference 2026 is “a vital step” in opening up the UK's defence supply chains to small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs).
The free-to-attend, two-day conference, taking place on June 11 and 12 at Millennium Point, is the West Midlands' inaugural event dedicated to connecting UK SMEs with defence manufacturers, MoD representatives and senior policymakers.
Carns, MP for Birmingham Selly Oak, said: "Strengthening our national security goes hand in hand with strengthening British industry.
“The Defence Procurement Conference 2026 is a vital step in opening up real opportunities for SMEs across the West Midlands and beyond to play a greater role in our defence supply chains.
"With increased investment and a clear commitment from the Government to expand SME participation, this conference will help demystify the procurement process, connect businesses with key decision-makers, and ensure more companies are equipped to contribute to the UK's resilience and sovereign capability.
"I strongly support this initiative and encourage businesses to take advantage of the practical guidance, insight and connections it offers."
The minister's backing comes as the UK Government prepares to increase defence spending with SMEs by 50 per cent by 2028.
Smaller suppliers already account for around £4.5 billion of MoD spend annually. Ministers have pledged to raise that figure to £7.5 billion in the coming years.
The conference is designed as a procurement forum rather than a trade show, offering policy briefings, roundtable discussions, practical guidance on compliance and accreditation and structured access to prime contractors and procurement leads.
Dr Richard Fallon, conference organiser, said: "The increase in MoD SME spending to £7.5 billion by 2028 shows a clear opening for Midlands manufacturers to diversify into defence and higher-value supply chains.
"But that opportunity will not wait. Businesses that move now will be the ones that build lasting positions in strategic national supply chains."
More than 1,000 delegates are expected across the two days, with upwards of 20 speakers across six panel sessions.
