American Bazaar event at University of Maryland to spotlight government contracting opportunities for startups

🚀🇺🇸 Entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and business leaders will come together on **June 13, 2026**, at the **Robert H. Smith School of Business at the University of Maryland** for **Startup Bazaar UMD: GovCon**, a major event focused on helping startups unlock opportunities in the rapidly growing world of government contracting. Held at the **Dingman-Lamone Center for Entrepreneurship**, the conference will explore how emerging companies can successfully navigate federal, state, and defense-sector markets while building long-term growth strategies in one of the nation’s most important innovation ecosystems.

A key highlight of the event will be a keynote address from **Maryland Secretary of General Services Atif Chaudhry**, who is expected to discuss the state's economic priorities, procurement initiatives, and opportunities for entrepreneurs seeking to work with government agencies. Attendees will also hear from successful founders and industry leaders who have built thriving businesses within the GovCon sector.

Featured sessions include a fireside chat with **Dr. Rajan Natarajan**, founder and CEO of Global Alliant and former Maryland Deputy Secretary of State, who will share insights from his entrepreneurial journey. Additional panels will examine topics such as entering the government contracting marketplace, building strategic partnerships, leveraging artificial intelligence and emerging technologies in GovTech, and preparing companies for acquisitions and successful exits.

Industry leaders including **Anil Sharma**, **Dan Lagana**, **Salil Sankaran**, **Dolly Oberoi**, and **Sandesh Sharda** will provide practical advice on procurement strategies, innovation, cybersecurity, business growth, and creating long-term enterprise value. With free admission and participation from entrepreneurs, investors, students, and innovation leaders, Startup Bazaar UMD continues to strengthen its reputation as one of the region’s premier forums for entrepreneurship, technology, and government-industry collaboration. 🌟🤝