Category Archives: State and Local Government

Better Together: How Nutanix and Omnissa Are Building the Modern Government Workspace

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Public Sector IT leaders navigate rapid change including geopolitical shifts, evolving cyber threats, vendor consolidation and pressure to do more with constrained budgets. For agencies modernizing end-user computing (EUC) and digital workspace environments, progress increasingly depends on integrated infrastructure, flexible architecture and trusted partnerships. Nutanix and Omnissa, distributed by Carahsoft, The Trusted It Solutions Provider™, deliver a combined platform that reduces complexity, accelerates deployment and keeps agency employees productive and secure.

A Partnership Built for the Public Sector

Carahsoft is the bridge between technology innovators and Government agencies, providing procurement vehicles, technical resources and partner support that simplify adoption. That relationship extends to Nutanix and Omnissa, with Carahsoft serving as a distribution partner that helps Federal, State, Local and Education agencies access both platforms through streamlined procurement. The partnership spans years of General Services Administration (GSA) Schedule contracting support, proof-of-concept assistance and technical resources that help agencies evaluate, deploy and scale their environments with confidence.

Nutanix brings a unified, software-defined infrastructure platform that combines compute, storage and virtualization into one hyper-converged stack. Rather than managing firmware updates across siloed server, storage and networking components, agencies can use Nutanix Prism Central and its Lifecycle Manager (LCM) to manage lifecycles holistically, reducing administrative overhead and compatibility risks. Nutanix’s cloud platform, NC2, also enables consistent operations across on-premises environments, AWS, Azure and Google Clouds without requiring agencies to re-architect their applications.

Omnissa is fully focused on the modern digital workspace. Through Workspace ONE, Omnissa unifies management of virtual desktops (VDI), mobile devices and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) applications while providing enterprise-grade security, conditional access and unified endpoint management (UEM). Omnissa also uses AI to proactively monitor and improve the digital employee experience, identifying performance issues before they affect end users.

A Stronger Solution Together

The integration between Nutanix and Omnissa Horizon on AHV, Nutanix’s native hypervisor, reached general availability at the end of December 2025 and has seen significant market response. Its beta program was the largest and most successful in Horizon’s history, and within weeks of general availability, the combined solution had already scaled to over 70,000 users. That momentum reflects real demand from agencies seeking a high-performance, fully supported alternative that avoids the constraints of legacy vendor agreements.

The technical case for combining the platforms centers on optimization. Running Horizon on Nutanix’s hyper-converged infrastructure positions compute and storage in the same stack, delivering measurably stronger VDI performance than traditional three-tier architectures. The operational experience combines Nutanix’s infrastructure management through Prism with Horizon’s app delivery and provisioning capabilities, including App Volumes, giving IT teams a more unified view across their virtual desktop environment. The outcome is faster deployment, lower total cost of ownership and reduced complexity.

Nutanix and Omnissa Better Together Blog, embedded image, 2026

Rethinking How Apps Are Delivered

One meaningful Omnissa capability is its apps-on-demand delivery model through App Volumes. Many agencies still use persistent desktop environments, pre-loading large application libraries onto each VDI instance whether or not they are needed. For engineering teams managing hundreds of applications, this creates unnecessary bloat, complicates patching and introduces avoidable performance overhead.

Omnissa shifts that model by delivering applications on demand, so they are available when needed without the administrative burden of persistent installation. This speeds patching, reduces the management footprint and gives IT teams tighter control over the application environment.

Addressing the Evolving Demands of Government IT

The Nutanix and Omnissa partnership is designed to grow with agency requirements. Hybrid deployments spanning on-premises data centers and cloud environments are now the norm, and both platforms support that reality. Nutanix Cloud Cluster (NC2) enables Nutanix workloads to run natively on AWS and Azure while maintaining consistent management while Omnissa Horizon extends seamlessly across those environments so agencies can place workloads based on performance, compliance and cost requirements.

Licensing flexibility reinforces that adaptability. Nutanix offers End-User Computing (EUC) licensing on a per-user basis so agencies can license per user or by core count. For organizations with power users who need high-performance environments, this model delivers direct cost savings, a meaningful consideration for Public Sector agencies that must justify every technology investment.

Security is embedded, not added on. Nutanix incorporates Nutanix Flow Network Security micro-segmentation and Zero Trust networking capabilities at the infrastructure layer while Omnissa brings conditional access policies, endpoint compliance enforcement and AI-driven threat monitoring at the workspace layer. Together, they create a layered security posture that supports the rigorous Government compliance demands.

Simplifying the Path to Modernization

For agencies running VMware or Citrix environments and navigating the complexity of transition costs, structured migration support removes a common barrier to change. Nutanix and Omnissa both offer migration tools, validated reference designs, pre-sales architects and post-sales services teams designed to move agencies from existing platforms to the integrated stack. Environment sizing tools help partners and agencies right-size deployments before committing resources, reducing the risk of over- or under-provisioning.

Preparing for an AI-Driven Future

Looking ahead, both organizations are investing in AI integration as a core platform capability, an approach particularly relevant for Public Sector agencies working to adopt AI responsibly. Nutanix supports AI and containerized workloads on the same infrastructure used for VDI, using Nutanix GPT-in-a-Box and reducing the need for separate AI infrastructure. Running AI workloads in a virtualized environment has also shown total cost of ownership (TCO) advantages over bare-metal deployments.

Omnissa is building AI into autonomous digital workspace management, enabling more self-healing, self-optimizing environments that detect and resolve performance issues before they impact productivity. For agencies exploring AI use cases, VDI environments offer a controlled deployment path that routes sensitive data within agency boundaries rather than public cloud AI services.

For Public Sector agencies evaluating their next phase of IT modernization, the combination of Nutanix’s infrastructure simplicity, Omnissa’s workspace management depth and Carahsoft’s procurement and support ecosystem represents a practical, proven path forward.

To learn more about the Nutanix and Omnissa integrated solution, including the general availability of Omnissa Horizon 8 support for Nutanix AHV, visit the Omnissa blog.

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 Nutanix and Omnissa, 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 7 State and Local Contract Vehicles to Support Your SLG Fiscal Year Requirements

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As the end of the fiscal year approaches, State and Local Governments (SLG) and education institutions are ramping up purchasing to ensure every allocated budget dollar is spent and their organization is prepared for further IT advancements in the coming year. Leveraging the right contract vehicles can streamline procurement processes, ensuring timely and efficient acquisition of necessary technologies and services. These contracts can also provide technology vendors and resellers unique opportunities to expand their Public Sector businesses.  

Below, we explore the top contract vehicles that SLGs and education institutions are using as they close out their fiscal year with their preferred reseller partner this month.  

1. NASPO ValuePoint  

NASPO ValuePoint is the cooperative purchasing arm of the National Association for State Procurement Officials, designed to provide access to the best possible IT solutions. It is considered to be the nation’s most significant public contracting cooperative. The contract offers a wide variety of cloud solutions, including Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS) and Software as a Service (SaaS).  

Carahsoft’s Contract: NASPO ValuePoint contract #AR2472 includes thousands of technology vendors.  

Who Can Use It: State and Local Governments, municipalities and public education entities (K-12 and higher education).  

2. GSA Cooperative Purchasing Program  

The General Services Administration (GSA) Cooperative Purchasing Program  grants SLGs access to Federal GSA Schedule contracts for IT solutions and professional services. The GSA Cooperative Purchasing Program provides a streamlined procurement process for SLGs to purchase IT solutions, often with pre-negotiated and cost-effective pricing structures.  

Carahsoft’s Contract: GSA Schedule #47QSWA18D008F, aggregates solutions from many technology vendors.  

Who Can Use It: State and Local Governments.  

3. Texas Department of Information Resources (TX DIR)  

The Texas Department of Information Resources (TX DIR) has established a Cooperative Contracts Purchasing Program which offers a wide range of product offerings, services and technology solutions to Public Sector customers in Texas and nationwide. The DIR contracts streamline the procurement process by handling all of the preliminary work upfront, making it easier for eligible entities to acquire a wide range of hardware, software, cloud solutions and professional IT services. Public organizations outside of Texas are also eligible to purchase through DIR contracts.  

Carahsoft Contract: Carahsoft holds eight TX DIR contracts, offering a wide variety of products and services from hundreds of technology vendors.  

Who Can Use It: State and Local Governments, public education and other public entities nationwide.  

Top 7 SLG Contracts Blog, embedded image, 2026

4. California Software Licensing Program (CA SLP)  

The California Software Licensing Program (CA SLP), established in 1994 and administered by the Department of General Services’ (DGS) Procurement Division provides SLGs within the state of California with access to discounted software licensing agreements. This vendor held contract expedites and simplifies the procurement process while supporting State Government modernization goals with a host of technology solutions.  

Carahsoft Contract: Carahsoft acts as a reseller on 19 CA SLP contracts, offering solutions ranging from data management to cybersecurity and more.  

Who Can Use It: State and Local Government agencies in California.  

5. E&I Cooperative Services  

E&I Cooperative Services is the largest and most experienced member-owned, non-profit purchasing cooperative focused on education. E&I provides education institutions with access to IT products and services, including learning management systems, classroom technologies and administrative software tailored to their unique needs.  

Carahsoft Contract: E&I Cooperative Services contract #EI00063-2021MA provides E&I members with cloud and managed service solutions and related IT products and services.  

Who Can Use It: E&I members and educational institutions, including K-12 schools, teaching hospitals, colleges, universities and some municipalities. 

6. OMNIA Partners Public Sector  

OMNIA Partners is one of the largest Public Sector cooperative purchasing organizations, providing comprehensive access to a wide variety of technology contracts across hardware, software and cloud solutions. The cooperative purchasing program is focused on efficiency, compliance and value, aiming to further streamline the procurement process for the Public Sector entities that leverage this contract.  

Carahsoft Contract: Carahsoft’s contracts with OMNIA Partners, #R240303 and #23-6692-01, provide SLGs and education institutions with access to technology from over 2000 vendors.  

Who Can Use It: State and Local Governments, public education institutions and nonprofits that are approved OMNIA partners.  

7. CoreTrust  

CoreTrust is a cooperative purchasing organization working together with public procurement leaders to create high quality, cooperative contracts that optimize cost savings, drive compliance and efficiency, providing effective outcomes to public sector agencies. CoreTrust cooperative contracts also actively support local labor markets, ensuring a holistic approach to sustainable growth and impact. 

By leveraging the CoreTrust suite of cooperative contracts, organizations gain access to contracts and discounts from leading suppliers of products and services across a wide variety of industries and benefit from a streamlined procurement process. 

Carahsoft Contract: CoreTrust 24COR-018GR offers members access to IT hardware, software, cloud solutions, compatible IT ancillary products, servers and professional IT services. 

Who Can Use It: State and Local Governments, K-12 and higher education, Tribal Governments in all 50 States/Commonwealths, D.C. and Puerto Rico 

Through leveraging these contract vehicles, SLGs and education institutions can easily find and purchase technologies that map to their modernization efforts while ensuring compliance and maximizing investments through their preferred resellers. As the fiscal year draws to a close, these contracts serve as a vital resource for timely and cost-effective procurement, driving end-of-year business to new heights and propelling Public Sector advancements.  

For more information on Carahsoft’s offerings under each of these contract vehicles, please reach out to contracts@carahsoft.com.  

Integrating NIST Supply Chain Risk Management into SLED Compliance Programs

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From data breaches exposing citizen records to cloud outages halting Government portals, supply chain disruptions in State, Local and Education (SLED) institutions have been making headlines lately. According to a 2026 Black Kite report, Public Administration is the most vulnerable industry, with 68% of its vendors having critical vulnerabilities, followed by educational services at 65%.

To protect your institution from vendors’ cybersecurity risks and operational disruptions, your best approach is to implement gold-standard supply chain risk management practices within a cybersecurity framework. Here’s a breakdown of NIST supply chain risk management for SLED teams to help you connect each best practice to your organization’s compliance program.

Why Supply Chain Risk Is Now a SLED Compliance Concern

For SLED entities, supply chain risks have advanced from operational planning and now sit at the center of the compliance programs. Auditors and regulators are asking more pointed questions, going beyond cybersecurity concerns to establish that your organization can:

  • Maintain a secure global supply chain
  • Deliver uninterrupted public services
  • Protect sensitive citizen data
  • Operate as a reliable partner in Government infrastructure

Vendor Oversight Has Become an Audit and Grant Compliance Issue

During routine audit and grant compliance reviews, auditors and grant makers scrutinize your vendors and third-party systems to establish that you’re in control of supply chain risks. The same scrutiny extends to Federal grant applications, where reviewers assess whether your vendor management approach strengthens the overall project and supports your overall cybersecurity posture.

Cybersecurity Mandates Are Reaching Into the Supply Chain

Cybersecurity requirements at the State and Federal levels reference supply chain security expectations. Frameworks such as GovRAMP (fka StateRAMP) and FedRAMP, along with guidelines from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), extend security protocol beyond your internal networks. These frameworks recognize that modern vendor networks rely heavily on external software and service providers and require you to implement a unified cybersecurity strategy to build resilient networks and reduce the risk of a supply chain compromise.

Education Institutions Face Distinct Vendor Obligations

If your educational institution manages student data, you have distinct vendor-related obligations under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and various State-level privacy laws. When you partner with an external vendor for learning management platforms, communication tools or admin solutions, you must verify they match your organization’s data protection standards and broader information technology controls.

The Risk Extends Beyond Information Systems

The need for your SLED organization to manage supply chain risk goes well beyond securing digital information systems. Supply chain risks can:

  • Impact important community services
  • Compromise data integrity
  • Erode public trust
  • Create compliance and legal exposure
  • Disrupt operational continuity and service delivery

What NIST SP 800-161r1 Covers

The broader National Institute of Standards and Technology Risk Management Framework (NIST RMF) addresses how you can manage cybersecurity risks across your information systems. NIST SP 800-161r1 functions as the specialized cybersecurity supply chain risk management (C-SCRM) companion to the NIST RMF.

NIST has organized the NIST SP 800-161r1 recommendations into three sequential stages:

StageWhat It Covers
Foundational PracticesEstablishing governance structures, roles and supply chain risk frameworks
Sustaining PracticesBuilding operational maturity and integrating risk management into processes
Enhancing PracticesIntroducing automations and developing predictive risk capabilities

The institute updates the NIST SP 800-161 framework regularly to meet current data privacy and cybersecurity demands. However, your SLED organization doesn’t need to implement all three tiers of supply chain risk management at once. You can start with foundational practices and build incrementally and still meet NIST requirements.

Integrating NIST Supply Chain Risk Management in Your Compliance Program

NIST SP 800-161r1 offers a widely accepted framework aligned with established industry standards for building a supply chain risk management program for your SLED organization. While your approach may vary, here are the key steps to successfully integrate the NIST framework into your compliance program.

Step 1: Map Your Supply Chain and Assign Criticality

To manage supply chain risks, you need a complete picture of your supply network. Conduct a full inventory of your vendors and software providers in every department.

Then, categorize your suppliers based on how failure or disruption in their system could impact your operations or data. NIST SP 800-161r1 recommends you use FIPS 199 impact levels to categorize systems based on their impact (Low, Moderate, High) to inform the overall risk rating of the supplier..

Here are the main actions to execute at this step:

  • Establish a cross-functional team to oversee your vendor and technology risk.
  • Define clear roles and responsibilities for managing supply chain risk.
  • Secure executive support for proper funding.
  • Standardize how your organization identifies critical suppliers and assesses risk.
  • Put internal controls in place to monitor compliance and enforce policies.
  • Embed risk consideration into your supplier selection and procurement processes.
  • Promote organization-wide awareness of supply chain risk and its impact.

Step 2: Build a Risk Assessment Process for Vendors

Your next step in integrating NIST supply chain risk management into your compliance program is to establish risk management activities for determining whether to continue working with your vendors. The NIST SP 800-161r1 recommends the following best practices to build repeatable vendor risk assessments:

  • Conduct regular third-party risk assessments to identify emerging vulnerabilities.
  • Review vendor development practices and software supply chain controls.
  • Establish continuous monitoring criteria to track supplier performance and risk exposure.
  • Define a clear risk tolerance threshold and what constitutes acceptable risk.
  • Standardize how your organization will share risk information with every stakeholder.
  • Provide targeted training programs that focus on vendor and supply chain risks.
  • Involve suppliers in contingency planning and incident response readiness.

For this step, you can use a Government GRC software to centralize documentation and automate workflows. The right tools help reduce the manual overhead that makes vendor risk management difficult to sustain at scale.

Step 3: Integrate Supply Chain Risk Into Ongoing Compliance Programs

Embed supply chain risk management into your compliance lifecycle so it aligns with the governance processes of your SLED organization. This step will look different depending on your organization’s existing control frameworks and compliance requirements.

Map your vendor risk findings to NIST 800-53, GovRAMP or other compliance requirements so your supply chain risk data flows in the reporting you use for compliance purposes. Include your vendor risk status in regular risk management reporting for leadership and the audit committee to have risk visibility. 

You can also coordinate vendor review cycles with grant renewal calendars and audit preparation timelines so they double as compliance deliverables. Additionally, incorporate supply chain risk expectations into vendor contracts to formalize security requirements and incident notification obligations at the agreement level.

Step 4: Move Toward Continuous Monitoring

Your last step to integrate NIST supply chain risk management into your compliance program is to build ongoing visibility into vendor risk:

  • Establish supplier risk metrics and track them.
  • Introduce automated alerts or workflow triggers when vendor status changes.
  • Use insights from assessments you conduct to identify patterns and develop more predictive approaches to vendor risk before issues escalate.
  • Automate cybersecurity oversight procedures wherever possible to reduce manual burden and improve consistency.

Treat your supply chain security as a living program that evolves with emerging threats, changing vendor relationships and shifting regulatory requirements.

Build a Program That Serves Both Compliance and Resilience

When your organization offers important State, Local or education services that communities rely on, it’s important to recognize and address supply chain risks. The NIST SP 800-161r1 framework provides the best structure to build your vendor oversight program. A structured platform helps SLED teams manage supply chain risks while remaining compliant with relevant authorities.

See how Onspring’s platform supports supply chain risk management efforts and get a demo today.

Third-Party Risk Management in the Public Sector: Lessons from Recent SLED Breaches

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Many high-impact breaches affecting State agencies, municipalities and school districts have originated from third-party vendors. According to a 2025 Verizon report, breaches involving third parties doubled from 15% to 30% in just one year. So even while you’re updating your internal security measures, somewhere in your supply chain, attackers are finding ways in through indirect access points by exploiting vendor vulnerabilities often outside the visibility of internal security teams.

A practical starting point for third-party risk management in the Public Sector is to examine recent breaches and identify the blind spots that threat actors continue to exploit. With the right understanding, you can develop a third-party risk management program that addresses security gaps in public entities.

Why Third Parties Are the Biggest Threat Vector in the Public Sector

State, Local and Educational (SLED) institutions rely on dense vendor ecosystems that usually exceed available oversight capacity. Procurement processes tend to prioritize price and functionality, with security requirements treated as secondary. Once your organization signs the contract, visibility often drops off.

Without continuous monitoring, your vendors retain access to your systems and sensitive data, even as they change their security postures without your re-evaluation. These changes introduce new, often undetected security gaps.

Recent Breaches in the Public Sector That Started With a Third-Party

Adversaries continue to exploit vendor vulnerabilities to breach sensitive Public Sector data. Here are a few recent third-party exposures.

Oregon Department of Transportation and the MOVEit Exploit

On June 1, 2023, the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) learned that it was part of the global breach of the file transfer tool MOVEit. A ransomware gang called Cl0p exploited a vulnerability in the third-party tool ODOT used to send and receive data in its routine operations.

The breach exposed the credentials of approximately 3.5 million Oregonians, including:

  • Full names
  • Date of birth
  • Physical address
  • Partial Social Security numbers
  • Driver’s license or identification card number

Although ODOT stated that the data was encrypted, the attackers were still able to access sensitive information due to a previously unknown vulnerability in MOVEit. The takeaway? ODOT’s exposure stemmed from a vulnerability in a third-party tool outside its direct control.. 

State of Maine and the MOVEit Supply Chain Impact

The same MOVEit exploit impacted several Maine State and Local Government agencies. By the time the State became aware of the breach on May 31, the ransomware gang had downloaded approximately 1.3 million records, essentially the entire Maine population.

More than half of Maine’s exposed data came from the Department of Health and Human Services, and another 10-30% from the Department of Education. Stolen data included:

  • Full names
  • Social Security numbers
  • Date of birth
  • Driver’s license number
  • Medical and health insurance information

While the vulnerability didn’t originate from the Maine systems, the State had no mechanism to detect flaws in the vendor’s software in advance.

PowerSchool and the K-12 Data Exposure

On December 28, 2024, PowerSchool, an education technology company, uncovered a breach affecting over 62 million students and 9.5 million educators worldwide. Unlike attacks that visibly disrupt operations, this intrusion went undetected for nine days.

Malicious actors used compromised subcontractor credentials to access PowerSchool’s customer support portal. PowerSchool’s engineers used this portal to access school districts’ student information for troubleshooting.

Because the portal didn’t require multi-factor authentication, a stolen username and password were all it took to gain administrative-level access across thousands of school districts. By the time PowerSchool identified the breach, the hackers had conducted the largest breach of children’s data in U.S. history.

Some districts later confirmed that hackers had accessed records dating back to 1995. PowerSchool paid approximately $2.85 million ransom and the attackers provided a video purportedly showing the deletion of the stolen data, but extortion attempts against individual school districts continued months later. For thousands of districts that trusted PowerSchool with their students’ most sensitive records, the issue wasn’t with the security practices but a vendor security gap they had no visibility into.

The Common Third-Party Risk Blind Spots in SLED

Across recent third-party data breaches, you can spot similar risk-management gaps. Your first step to improve vendor oversight is to identify the blind spots so you can close them before malicious actors exploit them.

No Formal Third-Party Risk Assessment at Onboarding

Many SLED entities rely on third-party-supplied questionnaires or attestations without independently verifying controls. Yet only 4% of organizations have high confidence that these questionnaires reflect the reality of third-party risk. Without independent vetting, you risk trusting controls that don’t reflect real-world security, leaving you exposed.

Point-in-Time Reviews Instead of Continuous Monitoring

Annual risk assessments capture a vendor’s security posture on a single day. Without continuous monitoring, you lack visibility into security control drifts and emerging risks between review cycles.

Contracts Without Security Baselines

In the Public Sector, procurement staff often negotiate contracts without cybersecurity expertise. Your SLED entity might onboard vendors without clearly defining security requirements, leaving you with limited options to enforce security controls later.

No Visibility Into Subcontractor Relationships

When Government agencies sign contracts with vendors, they rarely have visibility into the parties which that vendor relies on to deliver its services. However, exposure extends to everyone your vendor works with.

Supply Chain Risk Management Treated as an IT Issue

If your IT team is the only one responsible for third-party risk management (TPRM), other departments remain unaware of vendor exposure until an incident happens. You’ll have limited visibility across your organization and weaker accountability for vendor risk management.

How to Build a TPRM Program That Works for Public Sector Reality

As regulators and compliance bodies intensify scrutiny of supply chain risk management, your SLED institution needs a program that meets auditors’ requirements and protects sensitive data. Here are the primary steps to building an effective TPRM program that maintains constituent confidence.

Classify Vendors by Risk Tier

Your vendors carry different cybersecurity risks. For instance, a cloud provider that handles sensitive data requires a deeper assessment than a landscaping contractor. Your best approach is to classify vendors by:

  • The data they access
  • Criticality to operations
  • Regulatory exposure
  • Level of system or network access

This classification will allow you to focus on the highest-risk areas.

Standardize Risk Assessment at Onboarding and Throughout the Vendor Lifecycle

Assess your vendors’ security posture during onboarding to establish a clear baseline of cybersecurity risk from the start. After onboarding, set up ongoing monitoring processes to continuously detect changes in third parties’ security practices.

Set Contractual Security Baselines and Right-to-Audit Clauses

Your procurement and GRC team should work from a contract template that includes:

  • Minimum security control requirement
  • Right to audit vendor security practices
  • Data handling and retention requirements
  • Obligation to comply with regulatory changes
  • Subcontractor disclosure and flow-down security obligations
  • Breach notification timelines that meet Government agencies’ cybersecurity requirements

Implement Continuous Monitoring Through Automated Tools

Manual spreadsheet tracking cannot scale across a modern vendor ecosystem. To maintain ongoing visibility into your vendor security posture without requiring staff to manually chase each data point, use automated Government compliance software platforms to centralize vendor data, monitor risk signals and reduce manual tracking.

Establish Cross-Functional Ownership in Your SLED

Every department plays a role in your TPRM program. Procurement identifies new vendors, legal negotiates contracts, IT evaluates security controls and leadership sets the risk appetite. Your program should coordinate all these departments to create shared accountability and a unified approach to third-party risk decisions.

Strengthen Your Public Sector TPRM Program

As an SLED organization, your constituents expect you to protect their sensitive information while delivering essential services. An effective TPRM program will help you maintain public trust while meeting compliance requirements.

Learn how to strengthen your Public Sector TPRM program with Onspring’s platform and book a demo today.

How Government Agencies Can Modernize Transportation with Uber for Business

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State and Local Government agencies are under pressure to do more with less while still delivering reliable services. Transportation is fragmented in many agencies, with four or five separate vendor contracts across departments in larger agencies. There is an over-reliance on legacy vendors that are significantly more expensive, including specialty vendors that are important for certain populations and services but may not be necessary for every rider. In many cases, these systems require rides to be booked days in advance, sometimes through offline means such as phone calls. This lack of centralization also limits reporting and visibility into how transportation dollars are being spent.

Uber for Business helps Government agencies move away from a fragmented model by offering a single enterprise platform that can support a variety of transportation needs across departments. With more than 9.4 million participating drivers and couriers, Uber has the largest rideshare network in the world. Centralized administration and reporting provides agencies with a complete view of their transportation programs while reducing the burden on staff who currently manage rides manually.

Supporting Employee Travel and Community Programs

Agencies are using Uber for Business in several capacities. One major use case is employee travel. Many agencies still rely on rental cars or motor pools for staff traveling for work. Uber for Business provides an alternative that can also augment existing fleet operations, helping reduce reliance on basic sedans while allowing fleet teams to focus on specialized vehicles. Agencies can set controls around who can ride, when they can ride and what trip options are available. This is especially appealing as many employees are already familiar with using Uber in their personal lives, making it a seamless and intuitive option to extend into official Government travel.

Agencies are also using Uber for Business to support community-facing programs, including:

  • Court systems use rideshares to transport victims and witnesses, ensuring they arrive on time reliably and have access to a mode of transportation they are familiar with.
  • Social service departments and similar programs are using rideshare to close mobility gaps for the populations they serve, including workforce reentry, recidivism and youth and family programs that need reliable transportation to access essential services or job opportunities.
  • Public safety and transportation agencies are leveraging rideshare to support anti-driving under the influence (DUI) and safe ride campaigns, helping reduce impaired driving by providing residents with accessible transportation alternatives during high-risk times.

Delivering Value Quickly

One of the clearest advantages of Uber for Business is how quickly agencies can begin seeing value. For program managers responsible for overseeing social service and community programs, the benefits can be immediate when constituents are able to get where they need to go more reliably. Smoother transportation can make programs easier to manage and more effective overall.

Programs can be set up as fast as a couple of days. This speed can be especially important when agencies have immediate transportation needs or are looking for a fast, low-lift way to modernize existing processes.

Reducing Costs and Administrative Burden

Uber, Modernize Transportation Blog, Embedded Image, 2026

Cost savings are another major driver for adoption. Through Uber’s partnership with Carahsoft, the solution is available through a National Association of State Procurement Officials (NASPO) agreement that includes built-in incentives for agencies. Uber also applies a tax exemption tag when setting up programs so eligible rides are exempt from applicable taxes.

Beyond discounts and tax advantages, agencies can realize significant operational efficiencies. Program managers no longer need to call in rides or worry about whether clients are reaching their destinations. Instead, they can see trips in real time, communicate with drivers during the booking process and distribute ride credits easily. These streamlined workflows reduce administrative effort and help programs run more efficiently.

Improving Visibility, Compliance and Oversight

For agencies in large counties, Uber for Business can be set up with a parent account that all department accounts fall under. This gives agencies centralized administration rights and better reporting across the organization. It also supports auditing and grant compliance by allowing administrators to view granular details for each trip.

Centralization also helps agencies capture unmanaged transportation spending that may otherwise happen informally across departments. Instead of relying on ad hoc rideshare use with little oversight, agencies can bring transportation activity into one system and enforce internal policies more consistently.

Enhancing the Transportation Experience

Ease of use is a major reason agencies are adopting Uber for Business. For riders, the biggest advantage is on-demand access. Rather than scheduling transportation days in advance, riders can get a trip when they need it. This flexibility can make a meaningful difference for participants in social service and workforce reentry programs, where reliable access to transportation can affect whether someone is able to reach work, court or other essential services.

Uber has also invested in accessibility features, building tools for riders who may not have a cell phone or the Uber app, as well as for those who speak another language or have low vision or hearing-related disabilities. For Government agencies focused on serving all constituents, not just most, these capabilities can help expand access and improve inclusivity.

A Centralized Transportation Strategy

According to Uber, the most successful deployments happen when an executive or procurement leader helps identify which departments across an agency could benefit from a more modern, efficient mobility solution. That agency-wide visibility makes it easier to structure the right program from the start, including setting up the parent account, selecting the right products for different departments and developing an implementation and training plan for staff. This kind of centralized planning can help agencies move beyond isolated pilots and create a transportation strategy that serves multiple departments and use cases through one platform.

For agencies just getting started, most programs can be up and running in less than a month. While some agencies may choose to run their own solicitation process, others can take advantage of existing contracts through NASPO and Carahsoft to start immediately. In emergency situations, deployment can be done within a day. Uber can move as fast as an agency requires.

As agencies look for ways to improve service delivery, manage budgets more carefully and give employees and constituents more reliable transportation options, Uber for Business provides a scalable and flexible model for modernization. From employee travel and fleet augmentation to court systems and social services, a centralized rideshare platform can help agencies simplify operations, improve oversight and better meet transportation needs across the communities they serve.

To learn more about how Uber provides modern travel and rideshare options to Government agencies, view their Uber for Business portfolio.

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 Uber for Business, 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

Weathering the Storm: Migrating to the Cloud in Government

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Government agencies are under increasing pressure to modernize IT systems and deliver secure, efficient digital services. Migrating to the cloud is a critical step in this transformation, but the journey can feel like navigating a storm. In our latest CarahCast podcast episode, “Weather the Storm of Migrating to the Cloud,” experts share strategies to help agencies adopt cloud solutions with confidence.

Why Cloud Migration Matters 

Cloud adoption enables scalability, resilience and innovation. Agencies can reduce reliance on outdated legacy systems, strengthen disaster recovery and improve citizen services. 

Key Benefits: 

  • Efficiency: Lower costs and improved scalability.
  • Resilience: Faster adaptation to crises and cybersecurity threats
  • Innovation: Access to artificial intelligence (AI), analytics and automation.
  • Citizen experience: Reliable digital services that build trust.

Key Challenges: 

Despite its benefits, migration presents hurdles:

  • Security and compliance requirements
  • Legacy infrastructure integration
  • Budget limitations
  • Cultural resistance to change
  • Vendor management and lock‑in risks

Expert Insights from CarahCast 

Podcast experts highlight that migration is not one‑size‑fits‑all. Key takeaways include:

  • Start small with pilot projects to prove value.
  • Embed security and compliance at every stage.
  • Engage stakeholders across IT, leadership and end‑users.

As one guest noted, “Cloud migration is about resilience, not just moving workloads.”

Best Practices to Weather the Storm 

To navigate the complexities of cloud migration, agencies should: 

  • Define a clear roadmap with goals and milestones.
  • Use hybrid approaches to balance on‑premises and cloud systems.
  • Invest in staff training and change management.
  • Partner with trusted vendors and experts.
  • Measure success with KPIs like uptime and cost savings. 

Real‑World Examples 

Agencies nationwide are already seeing results:

  • State Governments modernized licensing systems to reduce wait times.
  • Federal departments leveraged cloud analytics for disaster response.
  • Local Governments adopted cloud collaboration tools to streamline operations. 

Listen to the Podcast

For deeper insights, tune in to CarahCast: Weather the Storm of Migrating to the Cloud. Hear directly from experts guiding agencies through successful migrations.

Migrating to the cloud may seem daunting, but with the right strategy, agencies can emerge stronger, more resilient and better equipped to serve citizens. The CarahCast podcast is your trusted resource for navigating this journey. Subscribe today to stay informed on the latest technology trends shaping Government.

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

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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.

Top 10 State and Local Government Events in 2026 

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State and Local Governments face unprecedented challenges as they work to modernize critical systems, strengthen cybersecurity defenses and deliver enhanced services to their communities, all while managing budget constraints and evolving compliance requirements. As agencies navigate this complex landscape, industry events provide essential opportunities to learn from peers, discover innovative solutions and build strategic partnerships that drive mission success. Carahsoft Technology Corp., The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider®, has partnered with State and Local agencies for decades, delivering the technology solutions and expertise needed to meet these evolving demands. Throughout 2026, we are proud to support a select group of premier industry events that bring together Public Sector leaders, technology innovators and policy experts to advance the future of State and Local Government technology.  

GovRAMP Symposium 

March 9, 2026 | Washington D.C. | 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 National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), FedRAMP/GovRAMP, Department of War (DoW) and other regulatory frameworks can create a secure, interoperable innovation base for artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies. A closing keynote will examine emerging governance models and the future of AI security in the United States. 

Carahsoft is committed to supporting State and Local Government agencies as they navigate the complexities of framework compliance and secure modernization. As the Exclusive Government IT Solutions Partner for this event, we are dedicated to empowering Public Sector agencies with access to leading-edge technologies and trusted industry expertise that simplify the path to compliance. Through our extensive partner ecosystem, Carahsoft facilitates meaningful connections between Government leaders and the innovative solution providers who can help them achieve their security and modernization objectives while reducing operational burden. 

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 share best practices, learn from one another and bolster future defenses. The event features critical sessions on protecting digital supply chains and baking trust into increasingly complex technology ecosystems. Attendees can expect expert panels examining recent threats, emerging regulations and best practices for ensuring transparency, trust and resilience across the technology landscape. 

Carahsoft and NightDragon are proud to co-sponsor the State and Local Billington CyberSecurity Summit, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to strengthening the cybersecurity 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 build relationships, share challenges and discover collaborative solutions. Our participation reflects our dedication to supporting the State and Local Government community as they work to protect critical infrastructure and citizen data against evolving threats. 

NASPO Exchange 2026 

March 9, 2026 | Orlando, FL | In-Person Event 

The National Association of State Procurement Officials (NASPO) Exchange conference fosters relationships among the supplier community and Government entities. This premier public procurement event features guaranteed one-on-one meetings, exclusive networking opportunities and direct access to Government procurement decision makers from all 50 states and territories. Attendees will explore critical topics including the ethics of AI in supplier selection processes, regional procurement trends and practical approaches to integrating ethical considerations in AI-driven procurement while maintaining compliance and public trust. Experience unparalleled connections between suppliers and procurement professionals that support effective, efficient, transparent and fair public procurement outcomes. 

Carahsoft is honored to exhibit at the NASPO Exchange Conference, where our dedicated NASPO Contracts Team will be available to help State procurement professionals navigate cooperative purchasing pathways and streamline their technology acquisition processes. We invite you to connect with us onsite or schedule a meeting in advance at NASPO@carahsoft.com to discuss how Carahsoft’s contract vehicles and extensive partner ecosystem can accelerate your agency’s access to best-in-class solutions. We are also honored to be recognized with an award at this year’s event, underscoring our continued commitment to supporting State procurement excellence and making it easier for Government agencies to acquire the technology solutions they need to serve their communities. 

NASCIO Midyear Conference 

April 26-29, 2026 | Philadelphia, PA | In-Person Event 

The National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO) Midyear Conference brings together State Chief Information Officers (SCIOs), technology leaders and industry partners to explore top priorities, emerging trends and leading practices shaping State Government IT. With an average attendance of nearly 1,000 participants—including representatives from all 50 states and dozens of SCIOs—the event offers unparalleled access to Public Sector technology leadership. Attendees participate in keynotes, breakout sessions, learning lounges and networking forums designed to promote peer learning, collaborative solutioning and strategic conversations. The conference provides structured opportunities such as meet-and-greets, general sessions and multiple networking receptions to help attendees build relationships and address shared challenges across the State IT landscape. 

Carahsoft is proud to be the “Give Back Sponsor” for the NASCIO Midyear Conference, reinforcing our commitment to supporting State IT leaders as they tackle the most pressing technology challenges facing their agencies. This is part of NASCIO’s Give Back Program which supports local non-profits in the host city of Philadelphia. We are honored to host a Carahsoft Networking Reception on April 27th from 8:30-11:00pm EST at Tir na nOg Fado Irish Pub, creating a relaxed environment where SCIOs and technology leaders can build meaningful relationships, share insights and explore collaborative approaches to common challenges. Our sponsorship and active participation demonstrate our dedication to fostering the peer connections and knowledge exchange that drive innovation across the State Government community. 

Public Sector Network Government Innovation Shows 

Multiple Dates Throughout 2026 | Various States Nationwide | In-Person Event 

Public Sector Network’s (PSN) Government Innovation events are designed to bring together Government executives, technology leaders and industry partners to accelerate modernization across Federal, State and Local agencies. These shows focus on real-world applications of digital Government initiatives, covering areas such as data-driven decision-making, cybersecurity resilience, AI, digital service delivery, infrastructure modernization and cross-agency collaboration. Each event is tailored to the challenges and priorities of its region, with recurring high-impact session themes including AI and predictive analytics, citizen experience and digital services, cybersecurity resilience and cross-agency collaboration. Attendees can expect case studies, strategic insights and actionable frameworks for improving Government efficiency, strengthening public trust and adopting emerging technologies to improve citizen outcomes. 

Innovation Show States: 

  • Nashville, TN 
  • Richmond, VA 
  • Columbus, OH 
  • Harrisburg, PA 
  • Phoenix, AR 
  • Tallahassee, FL 
  • Albany, NY 
  • Austin, TX 
  • Denver, CO 

Carahsoft is committed to supporting Government agencies nationwide through our sponsorship and event partnership with PSN’s Government Innovation Shows. By bringing our extensive portfolio of technology solutions and partner vendors to communities across the country, we are helping State and Local agencies discover the tools and strategies they need to modernize services, enhance cybersecurity and advance digital transformation initiatives. Our participation at these regional events reflects our dedication to meeting Government customers where they are. We are dedicated to understanding their unique challenges and connecting them with the innovative solutions and expert guidance that can help them better serve their constituents. 

NACo Annual Conference 

July 17-20, 2026 | New Orleans, LA | In-Person Event 

The National Association of Counties (NACo) Annual Conference is the premier gathering of elected and appointed officials from the nation’s 3,069 counties, parishes and boroughs. Attendees will explore emerging policy trends, innovative county-level programs and best practices designed to strengthen Local Government leadership. The event features data-driven sessions, hands-on workshops and opportunities to engage with national experts on issues ranging from infrastructure and public safety to health, technology and economic development. Participants will leave with actionable insights and proven strategies to enhance service delivery and improve outcomes for their communities. 

Carahsoft is committed to supporting county leaders as they work to strengthen Local Government operations and deliver critical services to their constituents. Our planned sponsorship of the NACo Annual Conference demonstrates our dedication to the county Government community, where we have partnered with agencies for decades to provide access to transformative technology solutions. We understand the unique challenges facing county Governments and we are committed to connecting county leaders with the innovative tools, partners and expertise they need to modernize operations while maximizing the impact of every taxpayer dollar. 

NASTD Annual Conference 

August 23-26, 2026 | Denver, CO | In-Person Event 

The National Association of State Technology Directors (NASTD) Annual Conference brings together State IT leaders, industry partners and technology innovators to explore emerging trends and best practices in Government technology. Attendees will gain insights into digital transformation, cybersecurity advancements and strategies for modernizing State IT infrastructures. The conference features data-driven sessions, peer case studies and collaborative discussions designed to help agencies improve service delivery and operational efficiency. Participants will leave with actionable knowledge, new professional connections and a clearer understanding of the evolving technology landscape across State Governments. 

Carahsoft is honored to sponsor and exhibit at the NASTD Annual Conference, where we will showcase how our comprehensive portfolio of technology solutions and partner vendors support State IT modernization initiatives. Our team will be available throughout the event to discuss how Carahsoft can help State technology directors overcome infrastructure challenges, accelerate cloud adoption, strengthen cybersecurity defenses and implement emerging technologies like AI and automation. By participating in this critical gathering of State IT leadership, we are reinforcing our commitment to supporting the technology directors who serve as the backbone of State Government modernization efforts. 

NASCIO Annual Conference 

September 27-30, 2026 | San Diego, CA | In-Person Event 

The NASCIO Annual Conference brings together State Government technology leaders, industry partners and subject-matter experts to explore the most pressing issues in Public Sector IT. Attendees will gain insights into national technology trends, share best practices and learn from data-driven sessions on cybersecurity, digital services, emerging technologies and State IT modernization efforts. The conference also provides opportunities to examine quantitative research released by NASCIO, including benchmarking data on SCIO priorities and technology investments. With a strong focus on collaboration and knowledge exchange, this event equips participants with practical strategies and proven frameworks to drive innovation across State Government, including sessions centered on top SCIO priorities such as cybersecurity, digital Government, enterprise architecture and developing technologies like AI and autonomous systems. 

Carahsoft is committed to supporting the State CIO community year-round, and our sponsorship of the NASCIO Annual Conference reflects the depth of that commitment. We are proud to once again host our annual networking reception, creating relaxed, informal settings where State IT leaders can connect beyond the main conference agenda to share challenges, discuss strategies and build the relationships that lead to collaborative solutions. Our team looks forward to engaging with State CIOs, their teams and our industry partners throughout the event, facilitating the meaningful conversations and knowledge exchange that helps State Governments navigate complex technology decisions and advance their mission-critical modernization initiatives. 

GovRAMP Cyber Summit 

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

The 2026 GovRAMP Cyber Summit brings together leaders from Government and industry to address the rising complexity of cybersecurity in the Public Sector. With agencies facing tight budgets, staffing shortages and increasing compliance requirements, the Summit emphasizes practical, risk-based strategies that enhance security while minimizing operational burden. Sessions focus on aligning frameworks such as GovRAMP, FedRAMP and Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) to reduce redundancy, promote reciprocity and achieve scalable, cost-effective security outcomes. Attendees can look forward to a keynote on emerging cyber risk trends and the evolving role of these frameworks in shaping Government-wide security strategy, as well as an interactive workshop focused on streamlining compliance through reciprocity and shared security evidence. 

As the presenting sponsor of the 2026 GovRAMP Cyber Summit, Carahsoft is leading the effort to bring Government and industry experts together for high-impact cybersecurity collaboration that directly benefits State and Local agencies. We recognize that many State and Local Governments struggle with the complexity and cost of achieving and maintaining compliance across multiple frameworks, and we are committed to connecting agencies with the solutions, expertise and strategies that can simplify their compliance journey. Through our extensive cybersecurity partner ecosystem, we help agencies access GovRAMP-authorized solutions and navigate the path to secure, cost-effective cloud adoption. Carahsoft is committed to supporting the advancement of secure, efficient Government operations that better serve citizens while protecting their data. 

Billington Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity Summit 

November 17-18, 2026 | San Antonio, TX | In-Person Event 

The Billington Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity Summit brings together an unprecedented coalition of Federal, State and Local Government cybersecurity leaders alongside operators from the nation’s four essential lifeline sectors: energy, communications, transportation and water. Building on sixteen years of hosting the most trusted Federal cybersecurity gathering, Billington is expanding its legacy to address the rapidly evolving threats facing America’s critical infrastructure. Attendees will gain insights from senior decision makers, sector experts and industry innovators on securing interconnected systems and strengthening national resilience through Firesides, General Sessions, Breakout Sessions and four sector-specific pre-conference Microsummits. Notable sessions include a rare cyber simulation examining roles and accountability between Government and industry during catastrophic events, as well as a fireside conversation with Intelligence Community leadership providing authoritative threat visibility directly to critical infrastructure operators. 

Carahsoft is proud to support the inaugural Billington Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity Summit, demonstrating our commitment to helping State and Local agencies strengthen the cybersecurity posture of America’s critical infrastructure sectors. As State and Local Government agencies increasingly recognize their role as operators and regulators of critical infrastructure, we are dedicated to connecting these agencies with the innovative technologies, expert guidance and collaborative partnerships they need to enhance resilience against evolving threats. Our team will be onsite throughout the Summit to engage with Government and infrastructure operators, showcase cutting-edge security solutions from our partner ecosystem and facilitate the meaningful dialogues that lead to stronger, more secure critical infrastructure operations serving communities nationwide. 

As State and Local Governments continue to navigate complex modernization challenges, these 2026 events represent critical opportunities to gain insights, build relationships and discover the solutions needed to advance mission success. From cybersecurity frameworks and procurement innovation to digital service delivery and infrastructure resilience, each gathering addresses the most pressing priorities facing Public Sector IT leaders today. Carahsoft is honored to support these events and the Government technology community they serve. 

To learn more about Carahsoft’s State and Local Government solutions, visit our State and Local Government solutions portfolio. 

To directly connect with our team regarding any of these upcoming events, contact us at SLGMarketing@Carahsoft.com. 

Top 10 5G Events for Government in 2026 

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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. 

Top 10 Cybersecurity Events for Government in 2026

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In 2026, assessment, adaptation and agility remain essential as Government agencies and the tech industry navigate an increasingly complex cybersecurity landscape. From the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and the evolution of cyber threats to enhanced data management strategies and the transformation toward unified platforms, cybersecurity continues to be mission critical. Carahsoft Technology Corp., The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider®, stands ready to support Federal, State and Local Government, as well as education and healthcare organizations, through collaboration with our extensive network of cybersecurity partners and solutions. These premier industry events offer invaluable opportunities to connect with experts, explore next-generation technologies and gain actionable insights into securing your organization’s digital infrastructure. 

Rocky Mountain Cyberspace Symposium 2026 (RMCS26) 

February 2-5, 2026 | Colorado Springs, CO | In-Person Event 

RMCS26 serves as an essential forum where industry, academia and Government converge to discuss and propose solutions to the nation’s most pressing cybersecurity challenges. This year’s theme, “Dominance Through Disruption: Emerging Tech and the Cyber Enterprise,” explores how emerging technologies, empowered cyber forces and integrated strategies are redefining operations across domains in an ear defined by contested information, persistent engagement and rapid technological change. The exhibit hall will feature cutting-edge cyber technologies, providing attendees opportunities to learn about innovative solutions and share ideas with peers from across the globe. RMCS26 is a world-class event that supports the community through investments in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) scholarships, grants and educational activities. 

Carahsoft is excited to announce that we will be hosting a networking reception for our partners and attendees participating at RMCS26. Please join us for our reception following the exhibit hall hours on Wednesday, February 4, at the Broadmoor’s Lake Terrace Dining Room from 6:00pm – 8:00pm for food, drinks, music and entertainment. 

Public Sector Day 2026 at RSA Conference (RSAC™) 

March 23, 2026 | San Francisco, CA | In-Person Event 

2026 marks the 13th Annual Public Sector Day at RSAC™. This specialized security event will explore key areas crucial for Government cybersecurity through dedicated Federal and State, Local and Education panels. This targeted day within the broader Conference provides Government professionals with focused opportunities to address sector-specific challenges while accessing the full event’s extensive resources. 

The program will cover:  

  • AI’s role in advancing Federal missions 
  • Building and retaining a skilled Government cyber workforce  
  • Modernizing State cyber defenses with emerging technologies 
  • Navigating Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 
  • Managing AI-driven threats across an evolving cyber landscape  
  • Strategies for secure and scalable FedRAMP cloud architectures 

Carahsoft is excited to host Public Sector Day at RSAC™ for the 13th year in a row, bringing Government and industry together for a day of engaging conversation. We will also be hosting a reception on Tuesday, March 24, at the Conservatory at One Sansome, located in the heart of San Francisco. Join us for an evening of networking, light refreshments and live music! 

Carahsoft Cybersmart Summit 

April 9, 2026 | Reston, VA | In-Person Event 

Cybersecurity remains a dynamic landscape characterized by new threats, evolving defense strategies and emerging attack surfaces. The development of AI as a commercially viable technology introduces new considerations, including growing recognition that it substantially increases the need for risk management. Attendees will gain knowledge in key areas, including identifying where new AI tools can reinforce existing cyber defenses, examining data privacy protection within AI-enabled systems, evaluating software supply chains for Zero Trust implementation, delineating elements of universally applied Zero Trust Architectures (ZTAs) and reviewing agency operations to locate Operational Technology (OT) usage and conduct risk assessments. 

Sessions to look out for:  

  • “The Intersection of AI and Cyber Defense” examines how AI functions as a double-edged sword. 
  • “Zero Trust and Supply Chain Security Belong Together” explores expanding the “never trust, always verify” mandate to include software from multiple vendors. 
  • “Bringing Cybersecurity to Critical Infrastructure” addresses the expanding cyber attack surface, including hostile nation-state targeting operations technology at maritime ports and other critical infrastructure. 

Carahsoft is proud to partner with FedInsider to host the Cybersmart Summit at the Carahsoft Conference and Collaboration Center. Join us on Thursday, April 9th to listen to industry and Government thought leaders discuss current trends in cybersecurity and examine the threats and opportunities that may arise from them. 

EDUCAUSE Cybersecurity Privacy Professionals Conference 

April 28-30, 2026 | Anaheim, CA | In-Person Event 

The EDUCAUSE Cybersecurity Privacy Professionals Conference provides higher education professionals with the tools, resources and peer connections needed to develop and enhance cybersecurity and privacy programs across institutions. At the Conference, participants will learn the risks colleges and universities face, how to implement effective security methods and which precautions to take to keep students and institutional data protected. The Conference helps institutions identify key messages and determine how and when to communicate with leadership, students, faculty, staff and external partners.  

Other areas of focus include: 

  • Developing and promoting tools to help campuses improve cybersecurity programs. 
  • Providing expertise on issues related to public policy that is affecting higher education. 
  • The Cybersecurity and Privacy Guide, which provides effective practices and timely guidance on key topics for higher education institutions. 

Carahsoft is a proud sponsor of the EDUCAUSE Cybersecurity and Privacy Professionals Conference. Stop by our tabletop exhibit, showcasing a range of cybersecurity solutions, to learn how Carahsoft and our partners support the higher education community. We will also host a reception; more details will be released closer to the event.  

AFCEA TechNet Cyber 

May 2, 2026 | Baltimore, MD | In-Person Event 

Carahsoft, Cybersecurity Top Events blog, embedded image, 2026

As a flagship event, Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association’s (AFCEA) TechNet Cyber brings together the policies, strategies and operations needed to meet global security challenges and successfully operate in a digital environment. The conference connects military and Government leaders with industry professionals through conversations led by the U.S. Cyber Command (USCYBERCOM), the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA), the Department of War (DoW) Chief Information Officer (CIO) and more. At AFCEA TechNet Cyber, attendees will have the chance to explore global security challenges and solutions with IT professionals and learn about new ways to combat sophisticated cybersecurity threats.    

Carahsoft’s pavilion will feature more than 50 partners showcasing a full range of cybersecurity, AI, DevSecOps and cloud solutions. Fed Gov Today with Francis Rose will also be in the Carahsoft booth taping a broadcast TV episode showcasing Government and industry thought leaders at the event. More information to come! 

EDGE26 Security Summit 

July 9-11, 2026 | San Diego, CA | In-Person Event 

The Government Business Executive Forum (GBEF) will host the annual EDGE26 Security Summit, joining together 400 senior security professionals across multiple industries for three full days of discussion on the latest global and emerging security threats, strategies and technologies. The summit’s highly interactive, off-the-record executive roundtable agenda offers attendees and participants the opportunity to network, share perspectives and speak candidly on technology and mission issues. Additional impactful multimedia presentations will be broadcast live for virtual attendees, allowing for expanded interaction and insight into the progression of worldwide security innovation. 

Sessions to look out for: 

  • Your Biggest Cyber Risk Isn’t Technology – It’s AI-Powered Manipulation 
  • Gen Z and Zconomy: New Discoveries and Specific Solutions to Unlock the Potential of Gen Z 

This exclusive, invite-only event is reserved for GBEF members, Government officials and Carahsoft partners. Carahsoft’s participation in EDGE26 reflects our commitment to fostering high-level dialogue among senior security leaders and facilitating candid discussions on the most critical security challenges facing Government and industry. 

SANS Government Security Forum 

July 22, 2026 | Online Event 

The SANS 2026 Government Forum, presented in partnership with Carahsoft, brings together Federal, State and Local Government cybersecurity professionals to explore the technology shaping secure, mission-ready environments. The program will examine how agencies can strengthen resilience amid rising nation-state threats, modernize legacy systems, secure hybrid infrastructures and adopt AI-enabled defense capabilities. Attendees will gain actionable insights from SANS instructors, Government leaders and industry experts on building security programs that are adaptable, auditable and operationally effective. Through technical briefings, case studies and expert-led discussions, the Forum highlights emerging defense strategies, interagency collaboration models, procurement considerations and proven approaches for securing critical services. 

Attendees can expect: 

  • Sessions highlighting proven strategies for modernizing Government cybersecurity programs. 
  • Case studies from Federal, State and Local agencies, as well as insights from SANS instructors and Carahsoft partners. 
  • Guidance on adopting secure architectures, AI-enabled defense, automation and aligning modernization with compliance. 

Carahsoft looks forward to partnering with the SANS Institute to present the Government Forum for the sixth year in a row, demonstrating our shared commitment to empowering Public Sector cybersecurity professionals. This must-attend virtual event reflects our dedication to providing Government agencies with access to educational opportunities and preparing Public Sector professionals for the next generation of cyber challenges. 

Black Hat USA 

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

Black Hat USA, one of the world’s most respected information security conference series, is returning to Las Vegas in 2026. The event brings together cybersecurity professionals, hackers, executives and security researchers at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center. Black Hat USA features a six-day program with specialized training courses and a two-day main conference showcasing more than 100 selected briefings, demonstrations and networking opportunities. This essential gathering provides unparalleled chances for Government professionals to connect with leading experts, explore emerging threats and discover innovative defensive techniques.  

Last year’s highlights: 

  • Trainings exclusive to Black Hat, taught by experts from around the world, provided hands-on technical skill building. 
  • Briefings led by security experts featured the latest cybersecurity risks, trends and groundbreaking research. 
  • The 2025 Business Hall offered unique opportunities for attendees and vendors to network with cybersecurity professionals and explore a broad range of security products and solutions. 

This year, Carahsoft is excited to announce that we will be hosting a networking reception again, providing a great opportunity to connect with industry peers. Our team looks forward to engaging with attendees throughout Black Hat USA and demonstrating how our partners’ solutions support mission-critical security requirements. Stay tuned for updates as plans develop! 

Billington CyberSecurity Summit 

September 8-10, 2026 | Washington, D.C. | In-Person Event 

The 17th Annual Billington CyberSecurity Summit stands as the leading Government cybersecurity conference, bringing together over 2,500 attendees and 200+ top speakers for more than 40 sessions and breakouts. Attendees will have the chance to network and learn the latest cybersecurity trends, best practices and threats through an agenda that combines feedback from previous summits with current cyber issues. This must-attend event enables professionals to stay in front of cyber issues at every level, meet the most innovative companies working cybersecurity from nearly every angle and engage with a wide-ranging group of thought leaders within Federal, State and Local Government. 

The program will feature:  

  • A leadership luncheon  
  • Over 100 cyber-focused vendor booths 
  • A lineup of senior Government speakers 
  • General and breakout sessions exploring key topics 
  • Receptions where participants can engage with other attendees and speakers 
  • Demonstrations of the latest developments and innovations in cybersecurity technology 

Carahsoft is sponsoring the 17th Annual Billington Cybersecurity Summit. Stop by our booth throughout the week to explore and learn more about our partners’ comprehensive range of cybersecurity solutions! 

GovRAMP Cyber Summit 

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

GovRAMP Cyber Summit is the premier event where Public and Private Sector leaders examine crucial cybersecurity, risk management and compliance topics and trends. Attendees will gain insights on framework harmonization and AI, best practices in supplier risk management and procurement, real-world case studies from top cybersecurity experts and discussions on emerging technologies and their compliance impact. Join national thought leaders as they explore opportunities for alignment across frameworks like FedRAMP, GovRAMP, Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Security Policy and more. 

Carahsoft proudly serves as the presenting sponsor of the GovRAMP Cyber Summit, demonstrating our commitment to advancing State and Local Government cybersecurity. Our involvement reflects our dedication to helping agencies achieve secure cloud adoption through compliant solutions. 

As the Government and cybersecurity community navigate significant transformation throughout 2026, these events offer invaluable opportunities to stay informed, connected and prepared. From comprehensive training opportunities to intimate networking sessions, each event provides unique perspectives on addressing today’s most pressing cybersecurity challenges. Carahsoft remains committed to supporting the Government through our extensive partner network, deep technical expertise and active participation in these essential industry gatherings. Join us at these events to discover innovative solutions, connect with industry leaders and advance your organization’s cybersecurity posture. 

To learn more or get involved in any of the above events, please contact our team at CyberMarketing@carahsoft.com.  

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