Top 10 Quantum Events for Government in 2026

Posted on by Troy Meraw

Quantum computing is an operational reality that is rapidly reshaping national security, cryptography and mission-critical data processing across the Public Sector. As adversaries accelerate their own quantum cryptography standards and explore quantum networking architectures, Carahsoft Technology Corp., The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider®, is proud to support Government stakeholders at the forefront of this transformation. Together with our network of leading quantum technology partners, Carahsoft is committed to connecting Government agencies with the expertise, solutions and community they need to navigate the quantum landscape with confidence. Below, we highlight the top quantum events of 2026 and how Carahsoft is helping drive the mission forward.

Convening to Act: Accelerating U.S. Post-Quantum Cryptography Adoption

March 17, 2026 | Hyattsville, MD | In-Person Event

Join the National Cryptologic Foundation for an event centered on Quantum-Resistant Cryptography (QRC) adoption where toady’s cyber leaders unite to accelerate the nation’s transition to post-quantum security. This high-impact forum brings together experts from Government, industry and academia to explore best practices for cryptography inventory and modernization, learn how leading organizations are transitioning to QRC standards and experience live demonstrations showcasing advanced migration tools and techniques. Through strategic dialogue and real-world insights, attendees gain clarity and momentum needed to act on emerging standards and mandates.

Carahsoft will have a tabletop presence at Convening to Act. Carahsoft partners in attendance include: Safelogic, SandboxAQ, Qanapi, ISARA, Entrust and QuSecure. Carahsoft’s involvement in this event supports published national security priorities by empowering commercial, defense and Intelligence Community (IC) participants to understand and operationalize newly released Federal guidance on Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) deployment. Our team will be present to help organizations strengthen their future-proofing strategies and contribute to securing the nation’s digital infrastructure.

ATARC Quantum Speaker Series: Accelerating Quantum Innovation Through Standardization

March 24, 2026 | 1:30-2:30pm ET | Virtual Event

Join the Advanced Technology Academic Research Center (ATARC) for a high-impact session in its Quantum Speaker Series. This focused 30-minute webinar highlights the work of the Advancing Standardization for Critical and Emerging Technologies (ASCET) Center of Excellence, an initiative dedicated to strengthening U.S. leadership in international quantum standards. Attendees will gain insight into how ASCET is broadening participation in quantum standardization, cultivating the next generation of quantum experts and supporting U.S. Private Sector priorities through training, tools and strategic initiatives.

Carahsoft recommends attending this webinar from the ATARC Quantum Speaker Series, reinforcing our dedication to advancing U.S. quantum competitiveness. The webinar format provides a platform that enables quantum experts to share their experiences and insights with a broad Government audience, making PQC knowledge accessible to agencies regardless of their location or resources.

Golden Dome: Quantum Proofing America’s Shield

April 23, 2026 | 3:00-5:00pm ET | Virtual Event

The “Golden Dome” for America has moved from vision to reality, creating a massive, interconnected architecture of space-based sensors, kinetic interceptors and Command and Control (C2) networks. However, this “system of systems” is only as strong as the data paths that connect it. As adversaries accelerate their quantum computing capabilities, the encryption protecting on-orbit capabilities, satellite links, ground-based systems and decision-support chains faces an existential threat.

Quantum-Proofing the Golden Dome is a practical, mission-focused deep dive into hardening the nation’s shield. The architects of the initiative will come together with the builders of the technology to define a clear path for quantum-resilient security in the next 12–24 months.

Sessions to Look Out For:

The Golden Dome Architecture: Security at Every Segment – A high-level view of the interoperability requirements across the Golden Dome segments. Bob Gourley, CTO at OODA LLC, will outline why the single attack surface of missile defense, space and C2 demands quantum-resilient security. From radar feeds to firmware signing, the specific data paths that are most at risk today will be identified.

Carahsoft is proud to host Golden Dome: Quantum Proofing America’s Shield at the Carahsoft Conference & Collaboration Center in Reston, VA, bringing together the architects and builders of the nation’s most critical missile defense initiative to chart a clear path toward quantum-resilient security. We are excited to provide a platform for experts in the quantum community to share their critical, real-world insights with Government leaders, defense professionals and technology innovators.

Quantum Tech World

June 25-26, 2026 | Boston, MA | In-Person Event

Step into the future at Quantum Tech World 2026, the premier global summit where quantum computing, artificial intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing (HPC) converge to redefine what is possible. This event unites more than 1,000 innovators, industry leaders, policymakers and researchers from 40+ countries to explore the breakthroughs shaping the next era of technology. Attendees will have the chance to listen to expert speakers, participate in trainings and earn certifications that will provide the insights, tools and connections needed to drive quantum adoption at enterprise scale.

Sessions to Look Out For:

Aerospace & Defense: Mission-Critical Quantum Innovation – Quantum technologies are revolutionizing the mission landscape for aerospace and defense, unlocking capabilities in sensing, navigation and secure communications. This panel gathers global leaders from Government, research and industry to discuss how quantum breakthroughs are enhancing resilience, accelerating innovation and securing critical infrastructure in an increasingly complex world.

Many of Carahsoft’s leading quantum technology partners will be in attendance—including IBM, QuintessenceLabs and ClassIQ—offering attendees direct access to cutting-edge solutions and expertise spanning PQC, quantum networking and quantum sensing. As Carahsoft deepens its engagement with the quantum ecosystem, this event represents a valuable opportunity for Government stakeholders to connect with our partner community and explore solutions best suited to their agency’s mission needs.

2026 Quantum Computing User Forum

July 20-24, 2026 | Oak Ridge, TN | In-Person Event

Get ready to join the global community at the 2026 Quantum Computing User Forum, taking place at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, one of the nation’s premier centers for advanced computing and scientific innovation. The Forum will feature interactive sessions, allowing attendees to explore emerging best practices in quantum application development, software frameworks and simulation techniques. Designed for both current users of the Quantum Computing User Program (QCUP) and the broader research ecosystem, this event offers the opportunity to connect directly with the scientists, developers and technologists shaping the future of quantum computing devices and systems.

Carahsoft’s expanding quantum portfolio includes a number of partners focused specifically on quantum computing hardware, software and integration, making this an ideal environment for agencies to explore the breadth of available solutions. This forum aligns with our commitment to linking Government agencies with the solutions they need to prepare for the quantum era.

DoDIIS

August 9-12, 2026 | Tampa, FL | In-Person Event

The Department of Defense Intelligence Information System (DoDIIS) is the premier intelligence and defense technology forum hosted by the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), convening quantum scientists, engineers and innovators dedicated to shaping how quantum will secure, empower and transform the U.S. defense ecosystem. This year’s theme, “DIA Next: Intelligence Technologies for Battlespace Lethality,” places groundbreaking quantum capabilities at the center of national defense modernization. As intelligence technologies increasingly rely on quantum-inspired algorithms, advanced sensing, secure communications and next-generation computational architectures, DODIIS 2026 offers the opportunity for quantum leaders to engage directly with the mission owners shaping the future of global security.

Carahsoft is proud to host an expansive partner pavilion at DoDIIS 2026, reinforcing our commitment to connecting Government customers with meaningful connections and a deeper understanding of the solutions available to support their mission. Attendees are encouraged to visit our pavilion, which will feature interactive demo kiosks, exhibitor booths and speaking opportunities, providing access to our broad ecosystem of quantum and intelligence-focused technology partners.

TechNet Augusta

August 17-20, 2026 | Augusta, GA | In-Person Event

TechNet Augusta 2026 is at the center of the nation’s cyber operations dialogue. This principal Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA) event, developed with assistance from the U.S. Army Cyber Center of Excellence (CCoE), brings together military leaders, Government decision makers and industry innovators to explore the evolving challenges and advances shaping the cyber domain. Across four days of mission-focused programming, attendees will dive deep into the technologies, strategies and operational imperatives driving modern cyber electromagnetic activities and unified land operations. Designed to open the lines of communication between defense stakeholders and the commercial sector, TechNet Augusta provides the opportunity to connect and collaborate with leaders and operators at every level as they chart the future of U.S. cyber superiority.

Carahsoft is proud to support the Government and defense community at TechNet Augusta, hosting demo kiosks where attendees can explore our partners’ quantum and cybersecurity solutions. Carahsoft’s involvement reflects our ongoing dedication to ensuring Government customers have direct access to the expertise and solutions needed to advance their mission-critical technology strategies.

Quantum World Congress

September 22-24, 2026 | College Park, MD | In-Person Event

Quantum World Congress (QWC) is the gathering where leaders across science, industry, Government, finance and education are shaping the future of quantum technology. Since 2022, QWC has served as an international platform for unveiling innovations, accelerating commercialization and forging the partnerships that move quantum from the lab into the real world. Attendees will explore advancements in communications, computing, sensing, materials, security and cross-sector applications. With the National Quantum Initiative Act (NQIA) Reauthorization signaling long-term Federal momentum, QWC delivers the insights, strategy and connections organizations need to lead in the era of quantum advantage.

Carahsoft is exploring opportunities to expand our presence for QWC 2026 as we continue to deepen our engagement with the quantum community and expand the resources available to our Government customers and vendor partners. Carahsoft’s growing quantum portfolio spans a broad range of mission-aligned solutions, and the QWC represents an ideal opportunity for attendees to engage directly with tools best suited to their needs.

TechNet Indo-Pacific

October 27-29, 2026 | Honolulu, HI | In-Person Event

AFCEA International and AFCEA Hawaii have re-named their signature event TechNet Indo-Pacific. As the largest strategic defense and technology event in the Indo-Pacific Rim, the conference brings together U.S. and allied military leaders, Government technologists, researchers and industry experts to address the region’s most pressing challenges. For quantum professionals, this is an incredible opportunity to explore quantum-enhanced sensing for maritime and space domain awareness, PQC for resilient communications, secure distributed computing at the tactical edge and hybrid quantum-classical tools for intelligence fusion. With exhibitor showcases, mission-focused technical sessions and direct access to decision makers responsible for shaping regional defense strategy, the event provides a powerful platform to influence the future of secure, high-performance capabilities across the Indo-Pacific.

Carahsoft will have a tabletop presence at TechNet Indo-Pacific, continuing our engagement with military and Government leaders at one of the most strategically important cybersecurity and technology events in the Pacific region. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with our team and explore our partners’ exhibits, which will feature hands-on demonstrations and mission-aligned solutions designed to meet the specific requirements of military and defense agencies operating in the region.

Super Computing 2026

November 15-20, 2026 | Chicago, IL | In-Person Event

Join the global leaders of HPC, networking, storage and advance analytics at Super Computing 2026 (SC26), an annual gathering that will define the next generation of computational innovation. Attendees can immerse themselves in a technical program built to accelerate discovery, featuring groundbreaking research in architectures, algorithms, machine learning at scale, distributed systems, visualization, data analytics and emerging technologies. The expansive exhibit floor will feature major industry innovators, national laboratories, universities and startups showcasing advanced systems, tools and solutions driving the fastest supercomputers and tomorrow’s exascale-to-quantum workflows. Whether shaping compute-intensive science, engineering extreme-scale systems or advancing quantum-ready architecture, SC26 provides unmatched opportunities to learn, collaborate and lead within the global HPC ecosystem.

Carahsoft will be an exhibitor at the SC26, showcasing the latest advancements in quantum computing and HPC solutions from our technology partners, including D-Wave, Quantinuum and IBM. Attendees are encouraged to visit Carahsoft’s exhibit to engage with our quantum-focused partner community, gain hands-on experience and learn how quantum computing technologies are transforming operations and driving breakthroughs across scientific and Public Sector missions.

The quantum era presents both extraordinary opportunities and significant challenges for Government agencies committed to maintaining strategic advantage and protecting sensitive data. The events highlighted above represent the most critical forums for policy dialogue, technical education and cross-sector collaboration as the Public Sector works to operationalize quantum-ready solutions. Whether your agency is just beginning to assess its quantum posture or actively implementing PQC standards, Carahsoft and our trusted partner ecosystem are here to support every stage of that journey.

To learn more or get involved with any of the above events, please contact us at QuantumComputing@carahsoft.com.

For more information on Carahsoft and our industry-leading quantum technology partners’ solutions, visit our quantum solutions portfolio.

Top 10 FedRAMP Events for Government in 2026

Posted on by Drew Myklegard

As Federal agencies modernize IT infrastructure through cloud adoption, navigating the FedRAMP authorization process while meeting stringent security standards remains essential. FedRAMP provides a standardized approach to security assessment, authorization and continuous monitoring, enabling agencies to adopt cloud technologies with confidence. Carahsoft Technology Corp., The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider™, provides expertise and a broad portfolio of FedRAMP-authorized Cloud Service Providers (CSPs), helping both agencies and vendors manage cloud security compliance. Throughout 2026, the FedRAMP community will gather at key events nationwide to discuss evolving requirements, implementation strategies and solutions that accelerate secure cloud modernization. Below are FedRAMP-focused events where Carahsoft and our partners will be present, offering opportunities to connect and explore authorized solutions designed for Federal security needs.

GovRAMP Symposium

March 9, 2026 | Washington, DC | In-Person Event

The GovRAMP Symposium convenes senior Federal, State and Local leaders to explore how secure innovation, policy and procurement intersect to advance trusted modernization across Government agencies. Hosted in partnership with Billington CyberSecurity, the half-day program serves as the opening session of the Billington State and Local Cybersecurity Summit, setting the stage for collaboration and framework harmonization as a national security strategy. Attendees will gain insights from sessions exploring how harmonizing the NIST, FedRAMP and GovRAMP, Department of War (DoW) and other regulatory frameworks can create a secure, interoperable innovation base for artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies. The event concludes with a fireside chat held in conjunction with Billington CyberSecurity and a networking reception.

As the Exclusive Government IT Solutions Partner for this event, Carahsoft is committed to supporting agencies navigating the path to FedRAMP and GovRAMP compliance through our extensive portfolio of authorized cloud solutions and trusted technology partners. We are dedicated to connecting Public Sector agencies with the FedRAMP-authorized solution providers and compliance expertise they need to simplify their authorization journey and accelerate secure modernization. Through our deep partner ecosystem and longstanding presence in the FedRAMP marketplace, Carahsoft helps Government leaders identify the right solutions to meet their unique security and operational requirements.

Billington State and Local CyberSecurity Summit

March 9-11, 2026 | Washington, D.C. | In-Person Event

Billington CyberSecurity is the recognized leader in Federal cybersecurity education events. Following the success of its inaugural State and Local CyberSecurity Summit in 2024, the 3rd Annual Summit will bring together top Federal, State, Local and Tribal Government officials along with industry experts to learn from one another and bolster future defenses. Attendees can expect expert panels examining emerging threats, evolving regulations and best practices for ensuring transparency, trust and resilience across the technology landscape. The event features critical sessions on protecting digital supply chains and navigating cybersecurity for multiple sectors, including healthcare, infrastructure and education.

Carahsoft and NightDragon are proud to co-sponsor the State and Local Billington CyberSecurity Summit, reflecting our ongoing commitment to strengthening the cybersecurity and FedRAMP compliance posture of State and Local agencies across the nation. By co-sponsoring the All-Attendee Reception in the Exhibit Hall on Tuesday, March 10th, we are creating valuable opportunities for Government cybersecurity leaders to connect with Carahsoft’s partner vendors, share compliance challenges and discover solutions designed to meet the rigorous standards of Federal and State security frameworks. Our participation underscores Carahsoft’s dedication to ensuring that State and Local agencies have access to the authorized technologies and trusted partnerships needed to protect critical infrastructure and citizen data against evolving threats.

FedRAMP Community Working Group – Rev5

April 1, 2026 |1:00-2:00pm ET | Virtual Event

Join the FedRAMP Community Working Group (CWG) for updates to National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Special Publication (SP) 800-53, Revision 5 (Rev5) – Security and Privacy Controls for Information Systems and Organizations. These public working groups interact primarily through GitHub discussions and are supported by monthly meetings on specific topics. FedRAMP CWG – Rev5 meetings will be held the first Wednesday of every month throughout 2026 and are open to anyone in the community.

Carahsoft supports Federal agencies by leveraging our expertise in Federal cloud security and compliance. Our team helps Federal agencies identify and acquire secure solutions from our portfolio of FedRAMP authorized CSPs. Additionally, Carahsoft provides support for our vendor partners navigating the FedRAMP authorization process, offering guidance on compliance requirements and best practices. These CWG sessions will feature discussions on updates to Rev5, vital information for professionals in the FedRAMP community.

FedRAMP Community Working Group – 20x

April 8, 2026 | 1:00-2:00pm ET | Virtual Event

FedRAMP’s other CWG meeting will focus on the FedRAMP 20x program, a modernization initiative designed to streamline the Federal cloud authorization process through increased automation, reuse and community-driven approaches. The CWG will take place one week after the Phase 2, Cohort 2 FedRAMP 20x application period ends. Participants will learn more about new opportunities and approaches for CSPs when it comes to navigating the authorization process for Government cloud services. These meetings will be held on the second Wednesday of each month throughout 2026.

As a trusted partner to Government agencies, Carahsoft facilitates access to our extensive network of FedRAMP authorized CSPs while ensuring solutions align with evolving Federal security standards. Utilizing our extensive industry expertise, Carahsoft provides critical insights and resources throughout the authorization journey to streamline the path to FedRAMP compliance. These CWG sessions offer essential updates on program developments, technical requirements and implementation strategies for secure cloud environments.

Cloud Security Summit

April 16, 2026 | Reston, VA | In-Person Event

As Government agencies embrace cloud transformation, the need for secure, compliant and resilient environments has never been greater. The Public Sector Cloud Security Summit brings together Federal leaders and industry experts to share strategies for protecting sensitive data, modernizing cloud architectures and navigating evolving cybersecurity requirements. Attendees will discover practical approaches to FedRAMP modernization, alignment with Office of Management and Budget (OMB) guidance, Zero Trust implementation, automated monitoring and managing shared responsibility in multicloud and hybrid environments. Sessions will address strengthening cloud supply chain security through enhanced vendor risk management, software assurance and greater visibility across cloud service providers.

Carahsoft is a tabletop sponsor for the Public Sector Cloud Security Summit and a proud partner of the Advanced Technology Academic Research Center (ATARC). Our team will be available throughout the event to discuss how our comprehensive portfolio of FedRAMP authorized CSPs can help agencies accelerate secure cloud modernization while maintaining compliance.

DGI Virtual Workshop

May 7, 2026 | 1:00-3:00pm ET | Virtual Event

The Digital Government Institute’s (DGI) virtual workshop, Embracing Private Cloud: A Strategic Shift for Government Agencies, explores how Public Sector IT leaders can leverage private cloud architectures to drive digital transformation and modernize legacy systems. Through expert-led discussions and real-world uses cases, attendees will learn how to enable seamless migration, optimize workloads and build resilient hybrid environments tailored to Government needs. Whether planning a cloud transition or refining an existing deployment, this free workshop provides actionable guidance and best practices for IT leaders, architects and program managers driving innovation in Government.

Carahsoft is partnering with DGI for this event to support Federal cloud security education and compliance initiatives. With an extensive portfolio of FedRAMP authorized solutions, Carahsoft is committed to assisting these educational opportunities that empower Government decision makers to confidently pursue cloud modernization. Our team will be available throughout the event to help connect attendees with the right technology for seamless, secure cloud migration.

Offset Symposium 2026

May 14, 2026 | Washington, DC | In-Person Event

The Offset Symposium, hosted by Second Front, is the premier defense and GovTech event that convenes leaders from Government, the Department of War (DoW) and industry to examine how software-defined capabilities are reshaping national security. Through keynote discussions, expert panels and live technology demonstrations, Offset explores evolving cyber threats, operational challenges and emerging technologies. Sessions emphasize practical lessons learned from real deployments, offering attendees insight into how organizations are overcoming accreditation barriers, integrating commercial technology and delivering capability at scale. The symposium also spotlights FedRAMP and Government cloud compliance, underscoring FedRAMP’s role in enabling secure cloud adoption across the Federal landscape. Offset showcases FedRAMP-compliant solutions, demonstrating how accredited platforms and Development, Security and Operations (DevSecOps) pipelines are being used to deploy resilient, scalable software that supports mission-critical Government operations.

Carahsoft partner Second Front returns with one of the year’s most anticipated events focused on accelerating defense innovation and technology adoption. As a gold sponsor, Carahsoft will showcase our broad portfolio of FedRAMP authorized CSPs and engage with defense decision makers seeking to accelerate cloud modernization while maintaining rigorous security standards. Registration for this event is now open!

GovForward: The ATO and Cloud Security Summit

July 23, 2026 | Washington, DC | In-Person Event

The Authority to Operate (ATO) and Cloud Security Summit is where Government innovation meets cloud security excellence. Our eighth annual forum brings together Federal, State and Local Government leaders, alongside industry experts and solution providers, to address the evolving security, compliance and modernization challenges facing the Public Sector. The Summit offers a collaborative environment for exploring strategies to streamline the ATO process, advance secure cloud adoption and strengthen cybersecurity posture. The program features engaging keynote presentations and interactive panel discussions, designed to provide attendees with actionable insights into the latest policies, technologies and best practices shaping secure cloud adoption across the Public Sector.

Carahsoft is proud to host GovForward: The ATO and Cloud Security Summit for the eighth consecutive year, a testament to our long-standing commitment to advancing secure cloud adoption across the Public Sector. Over the years, this summit has grown into one of the most trusted forms for Federal, State and Local leaders navigating the intersection of cloud modernization and compliance, and 2026 promises to be our most impactful year yet. GovExec is pleased to offer continuing professional education (CPE) credits through the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) for qualified attendees, providing valuable professional development opportunities. To get a sense of the depth and quality of programming this summit delivers, explore last year’s resources at our resource hub. Vendors interested in sponsorship opportunities are encouraged to contact us at GovForward@Carahsoft.com. Stay tuned for a detailed agenda!

Black Hat USA

August 1-6, 2026 | Las Vegas, NV | In-Person Event

Black Hat USA 2026 is the premier global gathering where cybersecurity professionals, researchers and industry leaders come together to learn, share research and help shape the future of information security. The event features a comprehensive program of hands-on trainings, expert briefings and keynote sessions. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore ground-breaking research covering applied security, exploit development, malware analysis and more. Black Hat USA 2026 encourages collaboration, critical thinking and practical skill building, making it an essential event for professionals committed to staying at the forefront of information security.

Carahsoft will be hosting a networking reception at Black Hat USA 2026, providing a great opportunity to connect with Government cloud security professionals, industry peers and FedRAMP experts. Join us for meaningful conversations about the evolution of FedRAMP and explore Carahsoft’s portfolio of secure, compliant cloud technologies. Stop by and speak with our team about the cutting-edge solutions in our portfolio that ensure sensitive Government information is secure.

Billington CyberSecurity Summit

September 8-10, 2026 | Washington, DC | In-Person Tradeshow

The Billington CyberSecurity Summit 2026 is the 17th annual gathering of Government and industry cyber leaders, serving as a premier forum for Federal, State and Local cybersecurity professionals to discuss critical threats, policy developments and defense strategies. This three-day summit brings together thousands of attendees and hundreds of expert speakers across more than 40 sessions and breakout discussions to explore topics like AI integration in cybersecurity, Zero Trust architecture, threat intelligence, operational resilience and emerging defense capabilities. The event offers extensive networking opportunities, solution showcases and deep-dive sessions that address the most pressing cybersecurity challenges facing the Public Sector. Sessions have not yet been released for 2026, but previous years have covered topics ranging from AI-driven threat detection to securing critical infrastructure and implementing proactive cyber defense strategies.

Carahsoft is committed to supporting DoW and Federal cybersecurity professionals at the Billington Cybersecurity Summit 2026 with a comprehensive resource presence featuring educational materials, expert consultations and technology demonstrations. Our cybersecurity specialists will be available throughout the three-day event to provide guidance on implementing Zero Trust frameworks, securing defense networks, addressing compliance requirements and exploring innovative solutions to combat evolving cyber threats. Visit our space to access resources tailored to DoW cybersecurity challenges, connect with solutions providers who understand defense mission requirements and engage in discussions about strengthening your organization’s cyber resilience and operational readiness.

GovRAMP Cyber Summit

November 15-17, 2026 | San Antonio, TX | In-Person Event

The GovRAMP Cyber Summit brings national thought leaders, cybersecurity practitioners, policymakers and industry experts to address the most pressing security, compliance and modernization challenges facing Government today. Designed as a collaborative forum, the Summit focuses on aligning and operationalizing cybersecurity frameworks, such as FedRAMP, GovRAMP, Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) and more, to help agencies reduce duplication, strengthen compliance and accelerate the secure adoption of cloud and emerging technologies. Through keynote presentations and in-depth discussions, attendees will gain insight into how Government and industry leaders are working to improve reciprocity, streamline authorization processes and balance risk management with operational efficiency. The Summist also features collaborative learning labs on topics such as AI and machine learning (ML), procurement considerations, authorization timelines and available industry tools. By bringing together voices from across Government and the Private Sector, the GovRAMP Cyber Summit empowers participants to advance secure, scalable technology adoption and strengthen cybersecurity outcomes across State and Local Government environments.

Carahsoft will serve as the presenting sponsor of the GovRAMP Cyber Summit. With Carahsoft’s extensive portfolio of both FedRAMP and GovRAMP authorized solutions, we are uniquely positioned to support agencies navigating multi-level cloud security requirements. We look forward to connecting State and Local Government leaders with the industry-leading solutions needed to secure and strengthen their agencies’ environments.

AWS re:Invent

November 30-December 4, 2026 | Las Vegas, NV | In-Person Event

Join AWS for a week of innovation, collaboration and global representation at AWS re:Invent, the company’s flagship annual conference that brings together tens of thousands of cloud professionals from around the world, including developers, architects, security leaders and business decision makers. This event serves as the stage for major AWS announcements, offering attendees early insight into the latest advancements across cloud infrastructure, AI and ML, security, compliance, data and application modernization. A series of in-depth technical sessions allows participants to explore through strategic, hands-on learning. AWS re:Invent features high-impact keynotes, targeted breakout sessions and an expansive expo floor, where attendees can engage directly with AWS partners and solution providers.

Carahsoft partner AWS returns with re:Invent, the most impactful cloud computing event of the year. Carahsoft will be hosting a Public Sector networking reception at re:Invent 2026, providing an exclusive opportunity for Government cloud leaders to connect with peers, AWS experts and our network of FedRAMP authorized CSPs. Our team will be present, offering best practices, expert guidance and more!

RAMPCon: Coalfire

Date TBD | Location TBD | In-Person Event

RAMPCon: Coalfire is a two-day, forward-thinking event filled with keynotes, expert panels and candid conversations. Bringing together leaders from Government and industry, the event will examine the evolution of FedRAMP alongside other frameworks such as CMMC and GovRAMP. Attendees will explore the growing role of automation, continuous monitoring and AI-driven security, gaining practical insight into what the next chapter Federal cloud adoption holds, from policy and authorization strategy to operational scale and resilience.

Coalfire, a Carahsoft partner, returns in 2026 with their impactful FedRAMP event RAMPCon. With our FedRAMP expertise, Carahsoft is here to back this essential gathering of the cloud compliance community. Our team will be at the event, connecting Government agencies with the resources and solutions needed for successful FedRAMP authorization.

As cloud technology reshapes Government operations, staying informed on FedRAMP requirements, best practices and authorized solutions is essential to secure, compliant modernization. These events offer valuable opportunities to engage with FedRAMP experts, connect with peers and discover cutting-edge cloud security solutions from authorized providers. Whether you are beginning your FedRAMP authorization, optimizing existing compliance processes or exploring new cloud capabilities, Carahsoft and our portfolio of FedRAMP-authorized CSPs stand ready to support your mission. Join us at these premier 2026 events to gain actionable insights, explore proven compliance strategies and see how Carahsoft can help you achieve secure, efficient cloud adoption that meets the highest Federal security standards.

To learn more or get involved in any of the above events please contact us at FedRAMPMarketing@carahsoft.com.

For more information on Carahsoft and our industry leading partners’ technology, visit our FedRAMP solutions portfolio and FedRAMP events page.

From Chaos to Confidence: Building Modern Data Strategy for Government Agencies

Posted on by Kris Lahiri

Government agencies hold vast amounts of data but struggle to extract value from it. Historically, agencies prioritized completeness over usefulness, resulting in years of manual efforts to organize data without surfacing valuable insights. Information remained trapped in siloed systems and inaccessible formats. As artificial intelligence (AI) transforms Government operations, its success depends not on new technology but on organized, accessible and secure data. Moving from reactive data management to a proactive strategy requires rethinking how data is classified, shared and protected.

The Evolution from Data Chaos to Strategic Data Organization

Agencies have long battled data disorganization, often with approaches that created more problems. Mandating perfect data organization before system development proved counterproductive. Projects stalled as teams pursued an impossible standard of completeness through governance structures that prioritized control over utility.

Rather than starting with comprehensive inventories, agencies should ask: What do I need to know that I cannot answer today? This question identifies the data that actually matters, assigns ownership and establishes automated processes to keep information current. Focusing on real business questions, not theoretical perfection, revealing the most-used data and delivering immediate value.

This shift reframes data as a strategic asset rather than a compliance burden. Modern data organization requires data domains that map to major key functions, establishing governance that enables access and early wins. The goal is speed and relevance over exhaustive documentation.

The Complexity and Criticality of Unstructured Data

Unstructured data, including Office documents, PDFs, imagery, drone footage, building blueprints, redlined contracts and multimedia recordings, poses a great challenge as it continues to grow dramatically. Construction agencies hold scanned blueprints from the 1950s alongside modern Computer-Aided Design (CAD) files. Legal teams generate years of contract negotiations with intelligence hidden in redlines and clause changes. Contact centers produce customer feedback that defies easy categorization yet contains critical insights. Emerging technologies like drones for monitoring or automated transcription continually introduce new data formats.

Extracting value requires technologies that classify, tag and analyze at scale. Optical Character Recognition (OCR) must identify Social Security numbers in images; classification engines need to distinguish between Controlled Unstructured Information (CUI) and Federal Contract Information (FCI) for Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC); multimodal tools must process audio, video and geospatial content. The challenge is organizing today’s data while preparing for tomorrow’s formats and making legacy information accessible and actionable.

Security, Access Control and Zero Trust in Modern Data Environments

As data moves into cloud, mobile and collaborative platforms, agencies face heightened security concerns. Traditional perimeter-based models, designed to secure from the outside in, no longer fit work patterns where employees access sensitive information from multiple devices and locations.

Egnyte, Building Modern Data Strategy for Government blog, embedded image, 2026

Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) reframes security by treating trust as a vulnerability. Every access request requires continuous verification. Field-level encryption at rest and in transit becomes essential. Authentication must balance robust security with usability to avoid workarounds. Agencies must evaluate whether solutions meet FedRAMP requirements, CMMC standards and other frameworks while implementing least-privilege access and continuous monitoring.

Effective security requires a layered design across three dimensions:

Storage – encryption and data handling
Systems – secure communications between platforms
Access – authentication and authorization

Agencies that succeed build security into workflows rather than adding it afterward, enabling legitimate access while preventing exposure.

Trust, Governance and the Fear of Sharing

Agencies hesitate to share data because they distrust its accuracy, currency or interpretation. Data owners understand nuances and limitations, but this context rarely transfers to others, leading to misinterpretation and errors. These issues stem from inconsistent definitions across systems, incomplete or outdated records and uncertainty about whether data reflects current operations.

Fear and misuse leads to data hoarding, which protects teams but limits organizational intelligence. Breaking this cycle requires comprehensive governance that enables rather than restricts. Effective approaches include:

Automating processes to ensure information is current
Assigning clear data ownership and accountability for quality
Creating data guilds for sharing best practices across organizational silos

Training, both technical and contextual, is essential. Early wins establish reliability, building trust and confidence.

AI Readiness and the Data Foundation Imperative

AI offers significant promise but depends entirely on data quality. AI cannot grant access to sensitive data, cleanse disorganized datasets or prevent hallucinations when trained on incomplete or contradictory information. AI amplifies existing data conditions: strong organization enables powerful AI applications; chaotic data yields unreliable outputs.

AI readiness intensifies longstanding challenges. Classification becomes non-negotiable when AI can process millions of documents but needs rules for handling personally identifiable information (PII), CUI and regulated data. Permissions must prevent accidental exposure or improper data combinations. Data cleansing, which includes identifying duplicates, correcting inconsistencies and validating accuracy, becomes a prerequisite for responsible AI deployment.

Because AI technologies evolve quickly, agencies must remain tool agnostic and focus on outcomes. Architecture can support multiple AI platforms and multimodal processing of text, audio, video and geospatial data. Agencies must assess current data maturity and invest in classification, cleansing and cultural alignment to ensure AI success.

Building Your Agency’s Data Strategy

Government agencies stand at a crossroads where old approaches to data management no longer suffice, yet the path forward remains challenging to navigate. Key steps include:

Start with the questions that matter, not perfect organization
Treat unstructured data as a high-value intelligence source
Implement security that enables legitimate access
Build trust through governance and early wins
Recognize that AI readiness begins with solid data fundamentals

Success does not require a sudden overhaul; it requires strategic focus, incremental progress and organizational commitment to treating data as the strategic asset it represents.

To dive deeper into practical strategies for organizing, securing and leveraging your agency’s data, watch the full webinar “Make Your Data Work for Your – Solutions for Securing and Sharing Data Correctly” hosted by Egnyte and Carahsoft.

Carahsoft Technology Corp. is The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider, supporting Public Sector organizations across Federal, State and Local Government agencies and Education and Healthcare markets. As the Master Government Aggregator for our vendor partners, including Egnyte, we deliver solutions for Geospatial, Cybersecurity, MultiCloud, DevSecOps, Artificial Intelligence, Customer Experience and Engagement, Open Source and more. Working with resellers, systems integrators and consultants, our sales and marketing teams provide industry leading IT products, services and training through hundreds of contract vehicles. Explore the Carahsoft Blog to learn more about the latest trends in Government technology markets and solutions, as well as Carahsoft’s ecosystem of partner thought-leaders.

How Microsoft’s OneGov Agreement Brings Affordable AI-Enhanced Productivity to the Federal Government

Posted on by Jenna Hafey

Federal agencies have a need to advance artificial intelligence (AI) adoption and transform Government by modernizing legacy IT systems. Microsoft’s OneGov Portfolio delivers AI-powered collaboration capabilities through pre-negotiated discounts, giving agencies a simple and predictive way to obtain Microsoft Solutions at significant cost savings.

Aligned with the General Services Administration’s (GSA) OneGov strategy to unify agencies and reduce technology silos, the program provides Federal agencies with streamlined access to Microsoft 365 Copilot, cybersecurity and monitoring tools, as well as tools to assist with citizen engagement and streamlining operations. This approach simplifies procurement, accelerates deployment and delivers measurable productivity gains across mission-critical operations.

Enhanced Productivity and Secure Collaboration

The Microsoft OneGov offer provides the AI-powered productivity capabilities of Microsoft Copilot with applications agencies are using today like Word, Outlook and Teams. The platform enables users to draft content, analyze complex datasets and automate repetitive processes without switching between systems or learning new interfaces.

Government‑tailored versions of the Microsoft 365 applications operate within Microsoft’s U.S. sovereign cloud environment, giving agencies secure channels for cross-agency communication. Agencies also receive cloud storage through Microsoft OneDrive for secure, real-time collaboration and AI capabilities through Microsoft Copilot that accelerate daily workflows, including:

Content generation: MicrosoftCopilot generates first-draft documents in Word, reducing time spent on routine writing tasks and enabling staff to focus on substantive review and refinement.
Accelerated communication: Microsoft Copilot summarizes lengthy email threads and drafts responses in Outlook, streamlining correspondence management across complex organizational structures.
Process automation: Users build agents in Microsoft Copilot to orchestrate multi-step processes, reducing manual effort and minimizing errors in repetitive workflows.

Entra ID, Microsoft’s Identity Management Platform, provides identity management capabilities that support secure collaboration across agencies. Administrators gain automated access policies, conditional access controls and enforcement of least-privilege principles, ensuring users access only content explicitly authorized for their roles.

The offer includes built-in automation and bulk-assignment tools that streamline license deployment and management for agencies of all sizes. Once licenses are deployed, they are readily available to users, expediting the onboarding process.

Meeting Federal Security and Compliance Requirements

Solutions deployed through Microsoft’s Government Community Cloud (GCC) and Government Community Cloud High (GCC‑High) operate in U.S. sovereign cloud environments designed to meet Federal compliance standards. The offer supports FedRAMP High authorization and Department of Defense (DoD) Impact Level 4 (IL4) requirements through comprehensive security controls:

Encrypted data handling protects information in transit and at rest.
Role‑based access control and continuous monitoring provide layered security.
Data residency guarantees ensure information remains within authorized geographic boundaries.
Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) enforces identity‑based access, least‑privilege permissions and robust conditional access policies across all services.

Simplified Procurement for Federal Buyers

Microsoft’s OneGov offer provides Federal agencies with pre-negotiated, standardized pricing up to 70% compared to standard GSA rates. The program supports agency-wide purchasing, reduces duplicative contracting and provides multi‑year discounts on solutions such as Microsoft 365 G5 and Copilot.

All purchases remain within the GSA Multiple Award Schedule (MAS), streamlining administrative tasks and simplifying budget planning. This structure enables agencies to act quickly on modernization initiatives while maintaining compliance with Federal procurement regulations.

Deployment and Adoption

Microsoft has end customer development funds available through the OneGov Portfolio offer to assist customers with rapid deployment, implementation and adoption of these tools.

The Power of Strategic Partnerships

As The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider®, Carahsoft worked closely with Microsoft to add OneGov offers to Carahsoft’s GSA MAS, making pricing widely accessible and offering standardized discounts ranging from 50-100% to Federal agencies. This partnership delivers pricing advantages on Azure Services, Microsoft 365, Copilot and Dynamics 365.

Microsoft and Carahsoft provide comprehensive support for environment qualification, anniversary alignment, suite conversions and deployment across GCC, GCC-High and DoD environments. By combining OneGov incentives with existing enterprise agreements, agencies gain simplified procurement, predictable pricing and meaningful cost savings that accelerate modernization timelines.

Explore Microsoft’s OneGov portfolio to discover available solutions aligned with the needs of Federal agencies.

Contact the Microsoft Team at (844) 673-8468 or Microsoft@carahsoft.com to receive pricing details or schedule an overview of OneGov offerings for your agency.

Carahsoft Technology Corp. is The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider, supporting Public Sector organizations across Federal, State and Local Government agencies and Education and Healthcare markets. As the Master Government Aggregator for our vendor partners, including Microsoft, we deliver solutions for Geospatial, Cybersecurity, MultiCloud, DevSecOps, Artificial Intelligence, Customer Experience and Engagement, Open Source and more. Working with resellers, systems integrators and consultants, our sales and marketing teams provide industry leading IT products, services and training through hundreds of contract vehicles. Explore the Carahsoft Blog to learn more about the latest trends in Government technology markets and solutions, as well as Carahsoft’s ecosystem of partner thought-leaders.

Top Cybersecurity Trends Reshaping Federal Risk Management in 2026

Posted on by Jeff Ladner

If you’re a governance, risk and compliance (GRC) professional on the Federal level feeling overwhelmed by the many recent and constantly changing cybersecurity trends, you’re not alone. As in many industries, Federal risk management has been all but upended by the rise of artificial intelligence and other major advancements in technology.

As a cybersecurity professional, you might be hesitant to jump on the latest bandwagon in favor of the tried-and-true methods you’re used to. While caution is always warranted, being overly reluctant to upgrade can hold you back from making beneficial changes to your organization that improve efficiency without compromising data security. In this guide, we’ll review exactly what you need to know about the five most impactful trends in cybersecurity right now, including what you and your team should be doing now to stay a step ahead of the competition as well as bad actors.

Top 5 Trends in Cybersecurity in 2026

To keep cyber threats at bay and prevent data breaches, you need to be aware of the latest changes in the cybersecurity space, including those that offer bad actors more opportunities to get in your way.

1. AI-Powered Monitoring

What it is: Artificial intelligence (AI) using large language models (LLMs) and machine learning (ML) has been the most monumental shift to the GRC landscape in many years. With the help of generative AI programs like ChatGPT, risk professionals can collect and analyze troves of data in a fraction of the time they used to.

How it impacts GRC: Whether or not your organization explicitly allows the use of AI, many employees will have an interest in a tool that promises to cut their workload without compromising on quality. Of course, those promises are often overblown. The truth is that working with the wrong kind of AI can expose your organization to greater risk of errors, compliance issues and data breaches.

How to stay ahead: Avoiding AI altogether will only mean your organization risks falling behind competitors that aren’t afraid to adapt to the latest technology. Instead of avoiding it, it’s vital to learn how to use AI responsibly.

2. Criminal Use of AI

What it is: GRC professionals and others who safeguard data aren’t the only people with access to the generative power of AI. Naturally, cybercriminals and other bad actors have as much access to AI as you do. In fact, there are even specific generative AI platforms tailored for criminals, such as FraudGPT.

How it impacts GRC: We probably don’t need to tell you that more empowered and efficient cybercriminals are an obvious threat to the integrity of your organization’s data. Any trove of personal or financial data will provide a tantalizing target to such criminals, as risk managers in Federal agencies are well aware.

How to stay ahead: It makes the most sense to fight fire with fire. When used correctly, AI programs excel at analyzing large amounts of data and flagging abnormalities that might indicate the presence of online intruders.

3. Quantum-resistant Encryption

What it is: Encrypted data has a new threat: quantum computing. Put simply, these advanced computers use the principles of quantum mechanics to perform calculations at exponential speed. For now, this technology is expensive and difficult to access, but future advancements might make quantum computing much more widespread within the next decade.

How it impacts GRC: Quantum computing has the potential to revolutionize problem-solving across the globe, empowering people to better understand our universe and share resources equitably. Unfortunately, well-intentioned people won’t be the only ones with access to this powerful technology. For GRC leaders, your main concern should be how easy quantum computing makes it to unlock encrypted data.

How to stay ahead: The National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST) has spent the last eight years developing a set of new standards for encryption that can stand up to the threat of quantum computing, called post-quantum cryptographic standards. Getting familiar with these standards and formulating a plan to implement them is the best way to stay on top of this rapidly advancing technology.

4. Automation Beyond Generative AI

What it is: While recent headlines may make it sound like there is only one type of AI that matters, the newest cybersecurity tools aren’t limited to what’s offered by generative AI. Cybersecurity automation doesn’t rely on written prompts or require constant human monitoring to avoid mistakes. Instead, purpose-built automation can pull live data from your systems and analyze it for patterns without introducing additional third-party risk.

How it impacts GRC: The benefits of automation for cybersecurity professionals are hard to overstate. When used properly, cybersecurity automation can help you and your team eliminate repetitive tasks, detect threats and anomalies more quickly, and kick off pre-programmed incident responses without human intervention.

How to stay ahead: Keep your organization competitive by employing automation that connects to your existing tools and processes, offers no-code options for less tech-savvy team members and incorporates NIST requirements and compliance frameworks.

5. Predictive Analytics in Healthcare GRC

What it is: When it comes to protecting and acting on patient data, any wave of new technology in the cybersecurity market brings with it additional challenges. The rise of AI and other types of automation appeals to healthcare GRC professionals as much as any other risk manager, but these organizations require significantly more caution than needed for compliance in other industries.

How it impacts GRC: As more healthcare organizations adopt automation to streamline workflows, possibilities are expanding for the focus on patient care to shift from reacting to existing concerns to proactively identifying and addressing potential risk factors. While promising, this potential future poses new, complex challenges for healthcare GRC managers looking to avoid exposing sensitive patient data to mistakes, misinterpretation and theft.

How to stay ahead: Fortunately, predictive analytics can also be used to flag potential compliance issues that can lead your organization to fall afoul of regulations like the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Stay Informed as Cybersecurity Technology Advances

Feeling more prepared for the next wave of technological advances in GRC? Don’t get too comfortable. The cybersecurity landscape is always changing, and you’ll need to successfully incorporate these trends to be ready for the next round of changes.

Get the insights into cybersecurity trends you need to stay ahead of the curve:

Watch our on-demand webinar “Building Resilient Organizations: Future of AI Risk Management”
Download the free ebook “Using AI in Risk Management for GRC Teams”
Learn more about how Onspring’s platform makes the most of AI advancements without exposing your organization to unnecessary risk
Looking for cybersecurity partners? Get a demo today

Building Mission-Driven AI That Lasts: A Federal Agency Roadmap for Success

Posted on by Angela Kovach

A recent Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) study revealed that 95% of artificial intelligence (AI) projects fail before they even get started. For Federal agencies managing citizen data, classified information and critical infrastructure, this is not just a learning curve; it is a fundamental breakdown of how AI initiatives are conceived and executed. The disconnect between AI proliferation and AI success stems from a common pattern—agencies prioritizing tools over outcomes, launching disconnected pilots without enterprise alignment and lacking the governance structures to ensure accountability. The path forward requires a deliberate shift. Starting with mission-driven use cases, building on clean and governed agency data and ensuring sustainable adoption through people-centered strategies.

Mission-Driven Use Case Development First, Technology Second

The fastest way to stall an AI initiative is to start with the technology instead of the mission. Too often, agencies approach AI adoption by asking “what can we do with generative AI (GenAI)?” rather than “what operational problem needs solving?” This approach yields pilots that work in limited scenarios but often fail to scale because the model, data and governance do not translate to enterprise-level needs. Strong AI use cases are not discovered after implementation; they are designed deliberately around mission outcomes and real operational constraints. Agencies should begin by defining a specific challenge or opportunity, whether it is a slow and manual process, resource-intensive workflows or error-prone operations. The critical test is simple: if success would not fundamentally change how the mission operates, it is not the right use case to prioritize.

Identifying stakeholders early is equally essential. Program owners, analysts, operators and leadership must validate whether AI will genuinely help or simply add noise to an already complex technology landscape. Agencies must also be explicit about outcomes—faster decisions, fewer errors, reduced backlogs, better procurement insights or reclaimed staff time. Without clearly articulated outcomes, measuring success or defining return on investment becomes impossible. A practical prioritization matrix can guide agencies in filtering use cases into four categories:

high-impact, high-effort investments for enterprise transformation
high-impact, low-effort quick wins ideal for pilots
low-impact distractions to avoid entirely
interesting but non-urgent projects to defer

By focusing on tightly scoped problems with clear ownership and contained risk, agencies can deliver meaningful pilots that demonstrate real value and build momentum for broader adoption.

Data Foundation and Governance as the Critical Success Factor

Most AI models in use today are generalized Large Language Models (LLMs) trained on public internet data. These models are faster to deploy and have lower upfront costs, making them attractive for proofs of concept. However, they lack understanding of an agency’s unique mission, culture and decision-making context. For lasting, mission-critical AI, agencies should consider Small Language Models (SLMs) trained on agency-specific data. These models are more energy efficient, operationally reliable and context-aware with fewer mistakes. The challenge lies in fragmented data environments where records are spread across systems, formats and classification levels. This is where records management and data governance professionals become invaluable, helping to locate data and establish controls that transform data from a liability into a strategic asset.

AI learns directly from the data it was trained on and from how humans categorized it through reinforcement learning from human feedback. If the underlying information is disorganized, untagged or incomplete, the model will reproduce those flaws at scale. Properly governed, annotated and categorized data produces outputs that are accurate, explainable and trustworthy. Unstructured data—emails, PDFs, chat logs, memos, case files—represents roughly 80% of all agency information and contains the real story of mission operations. Yet most tools focus on structured data like databases and spreadsheets, missing the valuable context hidden in human-generated content. In-place data management addresses cost and security concerns by training and running models where data already lives, minimizing movement and preserving security boundaries. When Chief Data Officers (CDOs) and Chief AI Officers (CAIOs) collaborate under a shared governance model that includes Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs), Chief Information Officers (CIOs), legal teams and records leaders, innovation becomes both safer and faster because trust and accountability are built from the start.

The AI Failure Crisis and Its Root Causes

Federal AI adoption has accelerated faster than almost any other technology in Government history, yet this growth comes with significant risk. Currently, there is no Federal statute enacted by Congress to regulate AI across sectors, leaving agencies to rely on self-assessments and voluntary guidelines. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) M-24-10 requires agencies to apply risk management and governance controls to high-impact AI systems, but without uniform standards for measuring impact or frameworks for compliance, agencies struggle to implement meaningful safeguards.

Many AI projects begin in isolation, driven by excitement about new tools or pressure to deliver results quickly, without engaging CIOs, CDOs or records management teams. Solutions may work adequately for limited use cases but lack the foundation to scale because governance, data quality and stakeholder alignment were afterthoughts rather than prerequisites. This pattern creates an explosion of activity with limited longevity, the very definition of a bubble. Experts report that Government is a generation behind industry in AI governance, a concerning gap given the sensitive citizen data, classified information and critical infrastructure at stake. If agencies rush to deploy AI without proper governance, they multiply the surface area for data errors, bias and compliance breakdowns. Expansion without oversight increases exposure rather than capability.

Sustainable Adoption Through People and Partnership

Even well-designed AI initiatives fail without sustained human engagement and vendor commitment. Vendors must remain engaged beyond initial implementation, continuing to train systems, monitor performance, incorporate feedback and deliver updates. If a vendor disappears after the sale, agencies are left without the support needed to refine and sustain their AI investments. This reinforces why starting with genuine use cases matters: when AI addresses tangible operational pain points, users are motivated to engage with and trust the technology.

Training cannot be a one-time orientation. Structured, continuous learning programs ensure that users understand not just the technology, but the workflows and data that feed it. Agencies should design AI for growth from the outset, building in governance controls, planning for scalability and considering reuse potential beyond the initial deployment. This “build once, reuse often” approach delivers efficiency gains and cost savings while making funding approval easier.

In an era where understanding how to learn has become the most essential skill, professionals must remain elastic and curious about topics that may fall outside traditional scopes, whether data governance for operational staff or technical architecture for mission leaders. By prioritizing mission-driven use cases, establishing robust data foundations, implementing governance as an enabler rather than a barrier and investing in people alongside technology, Federal agencies can move beyond experimental pilots to deliver AI that creates lasting, measurable impact.

To explore proven strategies for building mission-driven AI that lasts, watch ZL Technologies’ webinar, “From Noise to Impact: Building Mission-Driven AI in the Agency.”

The Year of Expansion for GenAI in Government

Posted on by Mike Adams

Generative AI (GenAI) is entering a pivotal new phase in 2026, marked by rapid advances in accuracy, reliability and mainstream integration. In 2025, GenAI became embedded into our everyday lives – from AI-generated overviews in search engines to classrooms adapting to powerful, readily accessible large language models. At the Federal level, 2025 White House guidance instructs agencies to push forward with AI infrastructure, building secure data centers to support the compute necessary in implementing innovative, American-built AI into our most vital missions.

GenAI’s unique content generation capabilities can be used to increase efficiency and productivity in our US Government agencies in the form of chatbots, text-to-speech audio generation, AI task managers, coding assistance and other Natural Language Processing (NLP) models. With the rising momentum created by America’s AI Action Plan and increased budgets for AI in areas such as the Department of War (DoW) and Veteran Affairs (VA), 2026 is the year of expansion for GenAI.

Augmenting Agencies in Task Execution

In Government agencies, GenAI commonly removes routing and repetitive workflows, freeing up users to focus on strategic tasks. GenAI works best in mission-support roles, supplementing human roles by improving written communication, increasing the efficiency of accessing information, enabling program status tracking and more. Personalized learning paths and AI assistants can augment current roles.

There are various use cases for GenAI. Program-specific examples include:

Defense
- The DoW has deployed GenAI.mil – a secure, bespoke platform that leverages generative AI to enhance efficiency, speed and operational effectiveness in our most critical defense and national security missions.
FEMA & NOAA
- In inclement situations, GenAI has been used to perform tasks like weather [CA1] and disaster prediction and response. Some GenAI models have even been more accurate than traditional deterministic models, suggesting GenAI has a strong use case in research and science.
GSA
- GSI has launched USAi, a secure GenAI evaluation suite that has helped employees draft emails, generate code and summarize documents.
The Department of Veterans Affairs
- GenAI has been used to automate various medical imaging processes to enhance veterans’ diagnostic services.
Healthcare & Department of Health and Human Services
- Generative AI has enabled healthcare systems to enhance medical images, generate molecular structures for potential drugs and create realistic patient data for AI training.
- To support containment of the poliovirus, the Department of Health and Human Services initiated an effort to use GenAI to extract information from publications and identify outbreaks in areas previously thought to be polio-free.

Procurement of GenAI solutions is being simplified and expedited by the Federal Government, increasing agencies’ ability to use innovative solutions to solve complex problems. GSA’s OneGov strategy delivers generative AI to the government by removing a major barrier to AI adoption: cost. Through the OneGov agreements, popular GenAI solutions are available for $1, and agencies are given the opportunity to experiment with AI and see what works best for their specific use cases. This strategy aligns with America’s broader AI policy framework – allowing agencies to take advantage of the speed, automation and modernization capabilities provided by AI. Carahsoft’s dedicated OneGov page serves as a centralized resource for determining product availability and identifying procurement pathways.

Federal Guidance for AI Usage

GenAI is already being used successfully in the US Government, and recent Federal guidance cements AI’s place in Government operations. 2025 executive orders (EO’s), such as “Removing Barriers to American Leadership in Artificial Intelligence” pave the way for increased usage of the technology. See below for an overview of relevant generative AI-focused memos and EO’s released in the last few months.

Launching the Genesis Mission – November 24, 2025

The Genesis Mission establishes AI at the forefront of scientific and economic growth and calls for an integrated platform to enable AI-automated research and discovery. The next wave of federal AI will prioritize scalable compute orchestration, secure model training environments, hypothesis-testing AI agents, supply-chain rigor, and measurable national return on investment that will be evaluated by acceleration in discovery velocity, compressed innovation cycles, and compounding mission impact – not extended pilots.

Ensuring a National Policy Framework for Artificial Intelligence, December 11, 2025

This EO adds on to previously established framework by ensuring state-by-state regulatory laws do not act as barriers to fast AI adoption, and that ideological bias is not embedded into AI tools used within each state. By creating a unified framework, America will become the winner of the AI race.

M-26-04: Increasing Public Trust in AI Through Unbiased AI Principles, December 11, 2025

In response to Executive Order 14319, OMB released M-26-04 which establishes principles for unbiased AI: that it is truth-seeking, and that it is ideologically neutral. All LLM’s procured by a government agency must abide by the unbiased AI requirements established in this memo.

Transforming the Defense Innovation Ecosystem to Accelerate Warfighting Advantage, January 9, 2026

This DoW memo formalizes AI as a core warfighting capability across DoW operations and streamlines integration and acceleration of adoption.

War Department’s AI Acceleration Strategy to Secure American Military AI Dominance, January 11, 2026

The DoW’s January 2026 memo outlines their AI dominance strategy. It calls for establishing an AI-first warfighting force – echoing earlier EOs and removing barriers that would hinder adopting practical, mission-first AI solutions for DoW. It highlights the previously mentioned GenAI.mil program that provides direct access to leading GenAI solutions for the DoW, enhancing speed and ease of AI adoption.

Department of War’s Arsenal of Freedom Tour, January 2026

A new “AI Swat Team,” led by the CDAO, is charged with removing barriers and increasing data sharing to speed up AI deployment. The DoW’s AI strategy, and the SWAT team enforcing it, shows that their measure of AI success is how fast usable data reaches operational systems. Organizations that improve data access, quality, and interoperability will be able to maintain strategic advantage.

Recent guidance establishes a framework for AI adoption and usage, enabling fast, common-sense deployment to ensure America wins the AI race. While agencies are encouraged to push forward, they must maintain the highest levels of security.

Building the Foundation for Successful Generative AI in Government

As Generative AI moves beyond pilot programs and into operational use, agencies must ensure these systems meet the established requirements for security, reliability and data protection. GenAI is dynamically generating content, so it must be deployed within secure environments where sensitive information remains protected and outputs are grounded in trusted data sources. Federal guidance emphasizes strong governance, secure infrastructure and validation mechanisms to ensure AI-generated outputs remain accurate and mission-relevant. With these controls in place, agencies can scale Generative AI to support mission execution while maintaining full confidence in the integrity of their systems and data.

Current Federal recommendations include utilizing and onboarding:

Risk management solutions
On-prem and cloud data security
Impact Level (IL) 5 and 6 security standards for mission-critical or classified information
Air gapping, which physically isolates computer systems and networks to avoid breaches
Model Context Protocol (MCP), the universal open standard for connecting AI applications to external systems
Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA), the foremost security strategy that verifies the identity of end users as they access the network
Data governance for Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), which enables content filtering and identity validation

Agencies are strongly encouraged to draw on guidance from reputable experts, including the National Institute of Science and Technology (NIST), whose AI Risk Management Framework (RMF) offers a proven foundation for responsible adoption. In addition to technical protocols, it is helpful to keep a human in the loop to audit and observe GenAI output, minimizing chatbot errors. Cybersecurity considerations, including data poisoning, data leakage and hallucinations, must be actively monitored to ensure models operate safely and consistently across Government missions.

Keeping security at the forefront is vital for GenAI’s success in Government. With thoughtful governance and strong safeguards, GenAI can advance agency missions without compromising security. The stakes are high, but so is the opportunity.

As The Trusted IT Solutions Provider for Government™, Carahsoft offers a comprehensive portfolio of AI and GenAI solutions designed to meet the unique security, compliance and operational requirements of Federal, State and Local Government agencies. From secure on-premises deployments to cloud-based platforms that meet Impact Level 5 and 6 standards, Carahsoft’s technology partners deliver the tools agencies need to implement AI responsibly and effectively.

Visit Carahsoft’s AI Solutions portfolio to explore GenAI platforms, risk management frameworks and Zero Trust security solutions that align with Federal guidance and support mission-critical operations.

Explore OneGov offerings available through Carahsoft.

Contact Carahsoft’s AI team to discuss how GenAI can transform your agency’s workflows while maintaining the highest security standards.

Top 10 DoW Events for Government in 2026

Posted on by Mike McCalip

As the Department of War (DoW) navigates an increasingly complex threat landscape, staying at the forefront of technological innovation and strategic collaboration is mission critical. In 2026, DoW stakeholders will have several opportunities to engage with senior military leaders, explore defense technologies and strengthen partnerships across the defense and Intelligence Communities (ICs). Carahsoft Technology Corp., The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider®, has deep expertise supporting the DoW through our extensive portfolio of cybersecurity, cloud, artificial intelligence (AI) and mission-focused solutions. Below are the top DoW events where Carahsoft and our partners will be advancing defense innovation and operational readiness.

Sea-Air-Space

April 19-22, 2026 | National Harbor, MD | In-Person Event

Sea-Air-Space 2026 is the premier global maritime exposition hosted by the Navy League of the United States at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland. It brings together senior military leaders, Government officials, defense industry executives and technology innovators to explore the latest advancements in maritime and naval security, operations and technology. The event features extensive exhibit halls, keynote speakers, expert panels, networking opportunities and discussions on integrated approaches to maritime defense and emerging threats.

Sessions to look out for:

Multi-Domain Integration and Naval Expansion in the Space Age

From Concept to Capability: Aligning Autonomy Across our Maritime Forces

Sea Power and National Defense: Naval and Coast Guard Readiness

Throughout the three-day exhibit, Carahsoft is dedicated to supporting maritime and naval professionals with 48 live vendor demonstrations showcasing real-world use cases and defense solutions. Our team of defense technology experts will be on-site to provide personalized consultations, answer questions about procurement pathways and connect you with solutions that address your specific operational requirements. Stop by to explore how our partners’ innovations can enhance mission readiness across the sea services.

Modern Day Marine

April 28-30, 2026 | Washington, DC | In-Person Event

Modern Day Marine 2026 is the largest military equipment, systems, services and technology exposition uniquely focused on supporting the U.S. Marine Corps, taking place at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C. It brings together Marines, DoW leaders, industry partners and authorized Government representatives to explore warfighting innovations, interactive exhibits and demonstrations. The event features more than 350 exhibitors, expert briefings, live technology showcases and specialized activities like the OBJ1 Wargaming Convention and themed zones highlighting emerging capabilities.

Sessions to look out for:

Logistics Command Artificial Intelligence Symposium

Ground Systems Enterprise Senior Leader Symposium

Carahsoft is proud to support the Marine Corps community at Modern Day Marine 2026 with engaging live demonstrations of mission-critical technologies designed to enhance warfighting capabilities. Our team will provide Marines and DoW leaders with expert guidance on innovative solutions in AI, cybersecurity, logistics automation and battlefield communications. Visit our space to experience firsthand how these technologies can strengthen operational effectiveness and connect with our specialists who understand the unique challenges facing the Marine Corps today.

GEOINT Symposium

May 3-6, 2026 | Aurora, CO | In-Person Event

The Geospatial Intelligence (GEOINT) Symposium 2026 is the nation’s largest gathering of GEOINT professionals, organized by the U.S. Geospatial Intelligence Foundation (USGIF) at the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center in Aurora, Colorado. It brings together Government, military, industry and academic leaders to explore how GEOINT technologies and partnerships are shaping national security, defense and global decision-making. The event features main-stage sessions, panel discussions, an expansive exhibit hall, networking receptions and opportunities to engage with emerging innovations across land, sea, air, cyberspace and space domains. GEOINT Symposium serves as a key forum for collaboration, professional development and advancing the role of GEOINT in addressing complex geopolitical and security challenges.

Carahsoft is committed to advancing GEOINT capabilities for the defense and intelligence communities at GEOINT Symposium 2026. Our live demonstrations will highlight cutting-edge solutions in geospatial analytics, AI-powered intelligence platforms and secure data integration designed specifically for GEOINT professionals. Connect with our team of specialists who bring deep expertise in supporting Government geospatial missions and can provide tailored guidance on implementing technologies that enhance decision-making across all operational domains.

SOF Week

May 18-21, 2026 | Tampa, FL | In-Person Event

Special Operations Forces (SOF) Week 2026 is the premier annual international conference and exposition for the SOF community in Tampa, Florida. Jointly sponsored by U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) and the Global SOF Foundation, it brings together special operators, defense industry leaders, Government officials and global partners to connect, share insights and advance capabilities relevant to modern special operations missions. The event features keynote sessions, professional development panels, extensive exhibition halls, live demonstrations and networking opportunities that foster collaboration.

Carahsoft is honored to support the Special Operations Forces community at SOF Week 2026 through our partner pavilion showcasing innovative, mission-ready solutions tailored to the unique requirements of SOF operations. Our presence provides special operators and defense professionals with direct access to advanced technologies in secure communications, tactical AI applications, cyber capabilities and specialized equipment. Our dedicated SOF solutions team will be available throughout the event to provide consultations, demonstrate how these technologies perform in challenging operational environments and discuss procurement pathways that support rapid capability delivery to warfighters.

TechNet Cyber

June 2-4, 2026 | Baltimore, MD | In-Person Event

TechNet Cyber 2026 is a flagship three-day cyber defense conference and exposition hosted by AFCEA International at the Baltimore Convention Center. It brings together U.S. Government and military cyber professionals, industry leaders and academic experts to address pressing cybersecurity challenges, emerging threats, policy, operations and technology integration in the contested cyberspace domain. The event features keynote addresses, panel discussions and an extensive exhibit hall where participants can explore innovative solutions and tools designed to strengthen secure, resilient cyber operations across defense and national security missions.

Carahsoft is dedicated to supporting military and Government cyber professionals at TechNet Cyber 2026 through our partner pavilion featuring innovative cyber defense solutions addressing the most pressing threats facing DoW networks. Our cybersecurity specialists will provide personalized consultations on Zero Trust Architecture, AI-powered threat detection, secure cloud operations and compliance frameworks essential to defending critical information systems. Visit our pavilion to explore technologies proven in Government environments, engage with experts who understand DoW cybersecurity requirements and discover resources that can strengthen your organization’s cyber resilience.

TechNet Augusta

August 17-20, 2026 | Augusta, GA | In-Person Event

TechNet Augusta 2026 is a regional defense and cybersecurity conference and expo hosted by AFCEA International in Augusta, Georgia. It brings together military, Government and industry professionals, especially those involved with Army cyber operations and unified land operations, to share insights, collaborate on cyber electromagnetic activities and discuss emerging challenges in the cyber domain. The event features educational sessions, networking opportunities and exhibits aimed at fostering communication, problem solving and innovation between the military and the commercial sector.

Carahsoft is committed to supporting Army cyber operations and unified land operations professionals at TechNet Augusta 2026. Our booth will feature live demonstrations of cyber and IT solutions specifically designed to address the challenges of cyber electromagnetic activities and defensive cyber operations. Connect with our team of Army-focused technology specialists who can provide expert guidance on implementing solutions that enhance tactical network security, improve cyber situational awareness and accelerate digital transformation initiatives across Army installations and mission systems.

TechNet Indo-Pacific

October 27-29, 2026 | Honolulu, HI | In-Person Event

TechNet Indo-Pacific 2026 is a major strategic defense conference and exposition in Honolulu, Hawaii, co-sponsored by AFCEA International and AFCEA Hawaii. It is the largest event of its kind in the Indo-Pacific Rim, bringing together military, Government, industry and academic leaders to address evolving regional security challenges, defense policy and operational readiness specific to the Indo-Pacific theater. The symposium features keynote speakers, panel discussions, professional sessions and an expansive exhibit hall where organizations showcase technologies and solutions to support secure, resilient communications and multi-domain capabilities.

Carahsoft is dedicated to supporting defense and Government professionals addressing Indo-Pacific security challenges at TechNet Indo-Pacific 2026. Our booth will serve as a resource hub featuring vendor collateral, expert consultation and technology resources tailored to the unique operational requirements of the Indo-Pacific theater. Our regional specialists understand the specific communications, cybersecurity and multi-domain integration needs facing military and Government leaders in this critical area of operations and will be available to discuss solutions that enhance interoperability, strengthen partnerships and support strategic readiness across the region.

DoDIIS Worldwide Conference

August 9-12, 2026 | Tampa, FL | In-Person Event

The Department of Defense Intelligence Information System (DoDIIS) Worldwide Conference 2026 is the Defense Intelligence Agency’s (DIA) premier information technology and intelligence systems event, bringing together senior decision makers, technical experts and stakeholders from the DoW, the IC, industry, academia and allied partners to collaborate on mission-critical technology solutions. It serves as a forum to share insights on data integration, IT modernization, secure information systems and innovations that support intelligence and warfighter missions. The immersive in-person conference features distinguished speakers, expert panels, networking opportunities and showcases of technical solutions designed to enhance decision-making and operational effectiveness. DoDIIS plays a key role in fostering partnerships and advancing capabilities across the defense and intelligence ecosystems.

Carahsoft is honored to support the defense and intelligence communities at DoDIIS 2026 through our dynamic partner pavilion featuring cutting-edge technologies designed to advance mission success across the DoW and IC. Our team of intelligence solutions specialists will be available to provide personalized consultations on data integration platforms, IT modernization strategies, secure information sharing capabilities and analytics tools essential to supporting intelligence and warfighter missions. Visit our pavilion to explore proven solutions, engage in meaningful discussions about your organization’s technology challenges and connect with resources that can enhance decision-making, operational effectiveness and mission outcomes across the defense and intelligence ecosystems. Check out the agenda here.

Billington CyberSecurity Summit

September 8-10, 2026 | Washington, DC | In-Person Tradeshow

Alamo Cybersecurity Exposition (ACE)

December 7-10, 2026 | San Antonio, TX | In-Person Event

ACE 2026 is the annual conference and exposition hosted by the Alamo Chapter of AFCEA at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa. It draws military, Government and defense industry professionals together to discuss cybersecurity, Information Technology (IT) and multi-domain operations, featuring expert panels, keynote speakers, acquisition updates and an expanded cybersecurity expo. The event also includes professional development opportunities, networking and events supporting charitable causes like golf tournaments benefiting military families.

Carahsoft is committed to supporting defense IT and cybersecurity professionals at Alamo ACE 2026. Our booth will provide attendees with access to expert consultations, educational resources and technology demonstrations addressing critical challenges in enterprise IT resilience, secure software delivery and multi-domain operations. Our team brings extensive experience supporting defense acquisition programs and can provide guidance on procurement strategies, contract vehicles and solution implementation tailored to your organization’s specific mission requirements and security objectives.

From maritime operations and SOF to cyber defense and GEOINT, these 2026 events provide essential opportunities for DoW stakeholders to explore innovative solutions, connect with industry leaders and strengthen partnerships across the defense ecosystem. Each gathering addresses the most pressing challenges facing the DoW, offering hands-on demonstrations, expert insights and valuable discussions that drive operational readiness and mission success. Carahsoft is proud to support these critical initiatives through our presence at each event and our extensive portfolio of defense-focused partners and solutions.

To learn more or get involved in any of the above events, please contact us at DoWMarketing@Carahsoft.com.

For more information on Carahsoft and our industry-leading DoW technology partners’ events, visit our DoW Solutions Portfolio.

Removing Complexity from Compliance: Buoyant and TestifySec

Posted on by Abby Costin

Traditionally, achieving an Authorization to Operate (ATO) has been a grueling marathon. It often demands expensive consulting fees, lengthy manual documentation and no clear visibility into where your architecture actually stands against NIST 800-53 requirements. For organizations running cloud-native architectures on Kubernetes, this complexity is magnified. You aren’t just securing a perimeter; you’re securing hundreds of microservices communicating in real-time.

Buoyant and TestifySec are changing that narrative. By combining FIPS-validated service mesh technology with pipeline-native compliance automation, we are helping organizations and agencies shrink compliance timelines with cryptographic proof at every step.

How to meet NIST 800-53 requirements?

To sell to Government agencies or to operate within them, you need a secure product and proof of that security. Compliance frameworks like FedRAMP and FISMA both rely on the NIST 800-53 control catalog. They require both the technical implementation of security controls and verifiable evidence that validates them.

The partnership between Buoyant and TestifySec helps alleviate the resources needed to implement these controls through:

The Technical Foundation (Buoyant): Buoyant Enterprise for Linkerd provides automatic mutual TLS (mTLS) encryption for all service-to-service communication. Additionally, it uses FIPS 140-2/140-3 validated cryptographic modules, satisfying strict Federal requirements for data in transit, and provides a FIPS dashboard to simplify the auditing process.
The Compliance Automation Layer (TestifySec): Even with encryption in place, proving it to auditors can take months. TestifySec automates this by capturing cryptographically-signed attestations directly from CI/CD pipelines—including evidence of Linkerd’s encryption configurations. These attestations map to NIST 800-53 controls and generate System Security Plans (SSPs) in OSCAL format, replacing manual screenshots and developer surveys with tamper-evident proof.

Why are Buoyant and TestifySec better together?

Whether you are a software vendor seeking FedRAMP authorization or a Federal agency modernizing under FISMA guidelines, this partnership offers three distinct advantages:

Velocity Without Friction: Linkerd provides automatic mTLS for all in-cluster traffic, covering both the control plane and data plane without requiring changes to application code. TestifySec captures attestations for these configurations automatically—no screenshots or developer surveys required.
Continuous Compliance: Compliance isn’t a “one and done” event. TestifySec provides ongoing validation and automated reporting alongside Linkerd’s FIPS dashboard that offers real-time proof of encryption and readily available CMVP numbers for auditors.
Simplified Procurement: Both Buoyant and TestifySec are available through Carahsoft, making it easier to leverage existing contract vehicles to acquire the full solution and removing red tape from the purchasing process.

The shift to Kubernetes shouldn’t be a compliance hurdle. By combining the world’s fastest, lightest FIPS-validated service mesh with pipeline-native compliance automation, Buoyant and TestifySec are making the Federal market accessible to the next generation of innovators and helping agencies secure their missions faster.

Learn more about FIPS-validated encryption with Buoyant and the partnership with TestifySec.

Carahsoft Technology Corp. is The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider, supporting Public Sector organizations across Federal, State and Local Government agencies and Education and Healthcare markets. As the Master Government Aggregator for our vendor partners, including Buoyant, we deliver solutions for Geospatial, Cybersecurity, MultiCloud, DevSecOps, Artificial Intelligence, Customer Experience and Engagement, Open Source and more. Working with resellers, systems integrators and consultants, our sales and marketing teams provide industry leading IT products, services and training through hundreds of contract vehicles. Explore the Carahsoft Blog to learn more about the latest trends in Government technology markets and solutions, as well as Carahsoft’s ecosystem of partner thought-leaders.

Top 10 5G Events for Government in 2026

Posted on by Mark DeMerse

As next-generation wireless technology continues to transform Public Sector operations, 5G stands at the forefront of mission-critical innovation. From strengthening national security and enhancing public safety to enabling smart city initiatives and improving citizen services, 5G capabilities are revolutionizing how Government agencies achieve success. Carahsoft Technology Corp., The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider®, maintains strategic partnerships with leading 5G solutions providers to help Federal, State and Local agencies harness this transformative technology. With deep expertise across the connectivity landscape and proven experience supporting Government digital transformation, Carahsoft is committed to advancing 5G solutions that enable agencies to achieve unprecedented levels of speed, reliability and operational efficiency. Join us at these pivotal 2026 events to discover how 5G is reshaping Government operations and driving progress across the Public Sector.

2026 Defense R&D Summit | Potomac Officers Club

January 29, 2026 | McLean, VA | In-Person Event

Hosted by the Potomac Officers Club, the 2026 Defense Research & Development (R&D) Summit brings together top defense leaders, researchers and innovators to discuss emerging technologies shaping the future of warfare and national security. The event features expert-led sessions focused on advancing United States military capabilities through cutting-edge research and strategic insights. Speakers include military personnel, subject matter experts (SMEs) and corporate executives in the technology sector.

Sessions to Look Out For:

Bridging Domains: 5G to FutureG in Defense

Innovating for Advantage: Advancing Secure Interoperable IT for Space Defense

Carahsoft is a key exhibiting sponsor at the 2026 Defense R&D Summit, reflecting its strong role in supporting technology innovation across the Public Sector. Through partnerships with leading technology providers, Carahsoft helps Government agencies access secure and scalable 5G solutions that strengthen digital infrastructure, improve communications and advance defense modernization efforts. This sponsorship underscores Carahsoft’s commitment to enabling defense organizations to leverage next-generation wireless capabilities that support mission-critical operations and enhance warfighter readiness.

MWC26

March 2-5, 2026 | Fira Gran Via, Barcelona, Spain | In-Person Event

Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona 2026 serves as an essential forum for the Government 5G space, bringing together global regulators, telecom leaders and technology vendors to shape the next phase of national connectivity strategy. With 5G-Advanced, secure infrastructure and private-network deployments accelerating, MWC provides Governments a front-row view of emerging technologies impacting public safety, critical infrastructure, smart cities and digital-service modernization. This venue offers one of the only opportunities for policymakers to directly collaborate with industry on spectrum, security, standards and regulatory frameworks that will define how 5G is deployed and governed over the next decade.

Sessions to Look Out For:

IoT Summit 2026

5G Goes Pro: Standalone, Advanced and Always On

Carahsoft is proud to highlight its partner Palo Alto Networks at MWC 2026, where Palo Alto Networks will showcase its platform-based, artificial intelligence (AI)-driven approach to securing 5G, cloud and next-generation mobile infrastructures. Through this partnership, Carahsoft enables Public Sector and enterprise customers to access Palo Alto Networks’ Zero Trust and advanced threat prevention solutions that support secure, resilient digital transformation in an increasingly connected world. This collaboration ensures Government agencies can implement 5G technologies with the robust security frameworks necessary to protect sensitive data and maintain operational integrity across evolving threat landscapes.

Smart Cities Connect: Spring Conference and Expo

March 10-12, 2026 | Raleigh, NC | In-Person Event

The Smart Cities Connect Spring Conference & Expo 2026 brings together city leaders, urban planners, technologists, policymakers and industry experts to explore and accelerate smart city solutions. The event features keynotes, panels, workshops and an expo showcasing innovations in connectivity, Internet of Things (IoT), mobility, sustainability and Public Sector infrastructure. Attendees gain insights into digital transformation, urban operations, governance and community engagement while networking with vendors, solution providers and municipal peers.

Sessions to Look Out For:

Smart Lighting Brings Free Public Wi-Fi Powered By 5G

Smarter Cities Using Wireless WAN Connectivity—Real-Life Use Cases!

Carahsoft is proud to highlight its vendor partners Dell and NVIDIA participating in the Smart Cities Connect: Spring Conference and Expo, where they will showcase innovative technologies that help cities become more efficient, resilient and citizen-centric. Through these partnerships, Carahsoft enables Government and municipal organizations to access emerging solutions from Dell and NVIDIA that support data-driven infrastructure, advanced analytics and intelligent urban services for smarter, more connected communities. These solutions demonstrate how 5G-enabled technologies can transform urban operations, from traffic management and public safety to environmental monitoring and citizen engagement.

OFC 2026

March 15-19, 2026 | San Francisco, CA | In-Person Event

Step into the future of optical communications and networking at the Optical Fiber Communication (OFC) Conference 2026. This premier event showcases the latest breakthroughs, innovations and next-generation commercial solutions through hundreds of exhibitors, expert speakers and thought leaders from industry and academia. Throughout the week, attendees can participate in symposia, immersive tutorials, interactive workshops and dynamic panels, offering insights into emerging technologies, market trends and the evolving state of the industry.

Sessions to Look Out For:

5G Network Evolution and Next-Generation Optical Infrastructure

Enabling 5G Services with Intelligent Optical Networks

Carahsoft is proud to highlight its vendor partners Intel, Nokia and Ciena participating in OFC 2026, where they will showcase advanced optical networking and communications technologies that are shaping the future of high-capacity, resilient infrastructure. Through these partnerships, Carahsoft helps Government and enterprise customers access breakthrough solutions that drive innovation, improve network performance and support the growing demands of data-intensive applications. These optical networking solutions provide the critical backbone infrastructure that enables 5G networks to deliver on their promise of ultra-low latency, massive bandwidth and reliable connectivity for mission-critical Government operations.

IWCE 2026 Conference

March 16-19, 2026 | Las Vegas, NV | In-Person Event

The International Wireless Communications Expo (IWCE) 2026 serves as the definitive event for critical communications, connecting the complete ecosystem from 911 centers to enterprise security and accelerating life-saving technology deployments. This comprehensive conference brings together stakeholders across public safety, Government, emergency management, utilities, education, transportation, healthcare and other critical infrastructure sectors. Trainings, panels and power sessions provide practical insights into implementing mission-critical wireless solutions.

Carahsoft, 5G Top Events blog, embedded image, 2026

Sessions to Look Out For:

Next-Generation 5G Networks for Public Safety and Smart Cities

Secure and Scalable 5G Solutions for Government Agencies

Carahsoft is proud to highlight its leading vendor partners T-Mobile, Verizon, iBwave and Druid at IWCE 2026 Conference, where they will showcase cutting-edge communications and network solutions for mission-critical public safety and enterprise environments. Through these partnerships, Carahsoft helps Government and enterprise customers access advanced wireless connectivity from T-Mobile and Verizon, intelligent in-building design with iBwave and real-time communications platforms from Druid, reinforcing its commitment to enabling resilient, secure and interoperable communications for today’s most demanding operational challenges. These solutions ensure that first responders and emergency management teams have the reliable, high-performance connectivity they need to protect communities and save lives.

FutureG for Warfare & Defense Summit

March 25-26, 2026 | Alexandria, VA | In-Person Event

Defense Strategies Institute’s (DSI’s) 3rd annual FutureG for Warfare & Defense Summit convenes senior leaders from the Department of War (DoW), Federal Government, industry and academia in a dynamic town-hall style event to focus on operationalizing current 5G networks, securing supply chains and charting the research roadmap toward 6G (FutureG). This must-attend two-day event details the strategic objectives and goals around the full-scale integration of secure, resilient commercial and military network technologies in support of the Warfighter.

Sessions to Look Out For:

Preparing for the Next Generation of Wireless Network Technologies Across DoD

Integrating 5G Capabilities for the Future Soldier

Carahsoft is proud to highlight its vendor partners at the FutureG for Warfare & Defense Summit, showcasing next-generation communications and defense solutions that support modern mission needs. Last year, Carahsoft’s partners were highly active at the summit, demonstrating advanced capabilities in secure connectivity, resilient networking and intelligent systems. Carahsoft’s continued participation in this summit reflects our deep commitment to supporting the DoW’s vision for 6G technologies and ensuring warfighters have access to the most advanced, secure wireless capabilities available. We look forward to sharing the full list of participating partners for 2026 once it is released.

Connectivity Expo 2026

May 4-6, 2026 | Fort Lauderdale, FL | In-Person Event

Connectivity Expo 2026 is a leading event for the wireless and telecommunications industry, bringing together carriers, technology providers, innovators and Government agencies. The expo highlights the latest advancements in 5G, private networks, IoT and next-generation connectivity solutions, while offering networking opportunities, workshops and demonstrations to explore the future of global communications infrastructure.

Sessions to Look Out For:

Slicing the Pie: Monetizing Public and Private 5G with Network Slicing

Cell Site of the Future: Open RAN, AI-RAN, Edge Compute and How We Get There

Carahsoft is proud to highlight its vendor partner, Nokia, participating in Connectivity Expo 2026, where they will showcase advanced networking and connectivity solutions that help drive innovation across Public and Private Sector infrastructures. Through this partnership, Carahsoft enables Government and enterprise customers to access Nokia’s cutting-edge technologies that strengthen digital networks, improve performance and support the evolving demands of connected communities and organizations. Nokia’s expertise in Open Radio Access Network (RAN), network slicing and AI-enabled RAN positions Government agencies to deploy flexible, future-ready 5G infrastructures that can adapt to changing mission requirements and emerging use cases.

International Telecoms Week 2026

May 19-21, 2026 | National Harbor, MD | In-Person Event

International Telecoms Week 2026 is the leading global forum for digital infrastructure and connectivity leaders. The event brings together innovators, carriers and decision makers to explore cutting-edge technologies—including 5G, satellite and subsea networks—while providing unparalleled networking opportunities across the international communications market. Attendees can engage with sessions on the “NextGen Networks” stage and the “Connectivity Infrastructure / Digital Disruption” stage, gaining insights into the technologies shaping the future of global connectivity.

Carahsoft is proud to highlight its vendor partners Nokia, AT&T and Verizon participating in International Telecoms Week 2026, where they will showcase leading innovations in telecommunications and connectivity that are driving global network transformation. Through these partnerships, Carahsoft helps Government and enterprise customers access advanced solutions that strengthen digital infrastructure, enhance network performance and support the future of connected services. These strategic relationships enable Carahsoft to provide Public Sector agencies with comprehensive 5G solutions spanning network equipment, carrier services and end-to-end connectivity platforms that meet the unique security, reliability and performance requirements of Government operations.

2026 UTC Telecom & Technology Conference

June 1-4, 2026 | Minneapolis, MN | In-Person Event

The 2026 Utilities Technology Council (UTC) Telecom & Technology Conference brings together utility and information and communication technology professionals to explore next-generation communications, private 5G and Long Term Evolution (LTE) networks, grid modernization and innovative technology solutions through workshops, sessions and an exhibit hall. Key sessions provide utilities and Government organizations with practical strategies for implementing secure, reliable wireless communications infrastructure.

Sessions to Look Out For:

Wireless Summit—Private 5G for Utilities

UtiliSite/Small Cell & 5G Infrastructure

Carahsoft is looking forward to highlighting its vendor partners at the 2026 UTC Telecom & Technology Conference, where leading technology providers will showcase innovations that support robust, secure and future-ready communications infrastructures. While the full list of participating sponsors has not yet been released, Carahsoft’s ecosystem of partners continues to deliver advanced solutions that help utilities and Government organizations enhance connectivity, resilience and operational performance. This event provides a critical platform for demonstrating how private 5G networks can transform utility operations, enabling smart grid applications, remote monitoring and improved workforce communications across distributed infrastructure.

Carahsoft | Public Sector 5G Summit 2026

August 25, 2026 | Reston, VA | In-Person Event

The Carahsoft Public Sector 5G Summit 2026 will bring together Government leaders, industry innovators and technology experts to explore how 5G is transforming Public Sector operations and mission delivery. This exclusive event will feature expert-led sessions, technology demonstrations and networking opportunities designed specifically for Federal, State and Local Government professionals seeking to understand and implement next-generation wireless capabilities. Additional details on keynote speakers, session topics and featured technology partners will be released in the coming months.

As the host of this premier Public Sector 5G event, Carahsoft will showcase its extensive ecosystem of leading 5G technology partners and solutions providers at our Conference & Collaboration Center. The summit will provide Government attendees with hands-on access to cutting-edge 5G technologies, practical implementation strategies and direct connections with industry experts who understand the unique requirements and challenges facing Public Sector organizations. This exclusive event reflects Carahsoft’s leadership in the 5G space and our commitment to facilitating meaningful dialogue between Government decision makers and the technology innovators who can help agencies achieve their connectivity and modernization goals.

As 5G technology continues to evolve and mature, these 2026 events provide Government professionals with essential opportunities to stay at the forefront of wireless innovation. From defense and public safety applications to smart city initiatives and critical infrastructure modernization, next-generation connectivity is reshaping how agencies serve their missions and constituents. Each event offers unique insights into emerging technologies, the implementation of best practices and real-world use cases that demonstrate the transformative potential of 5G in the Public Sector.

Whether you are exploring secure 5G deployments for defense applications, evaluating private networks for critical infrastructure or seeking to understand how 5G enables smarter, more connected communities, these gatherings offer invaluable opportunities to learn from industry leaders and connect with solution providers who understand Government requirements. Carahsoft remains committed to supporting Government agencies throughout their 5G journey, providing access to leading technology partners, expert guidance and proven solutions that deliver mission success.

To learn more or get involved in any of the above events, please contact us at 5G@carahsoft.com.

For more information on Carahsoft and our industry-leading 5G technology partners’ events, visit our 5G Solutions Portfolio and 5G Events page.