Mission
Where Strategy Meets Skill
The NDIA Business Institute builds the people who power national defense.
We deliver practical, mission-aligned education that strengthens the Defense Industrial Base (DIB) by helping individuals and organizations confidently navigate the business of defense. Whether you're new to the space or scaling your operations, we equip you with the knowledge, tools, and networks to succeed across the entire defense acquisition lifecycle.
Our Why
The Defense Industrial Base faces increasing pressure to deliver innovation at speed, maintain compliance, and develop a workforce ready for 21st-century challenges. Yet many professionals and companies—especially small and mid-sized firms—lack access to trusted, relevant, and actionable training tailored to the realities of doing business with the Department of Defense.
The NDIA Business Institute exists to close this gap.
Our Advantage
Unlike traditional training providers, we don’t just host events—we build capability. We focus on execution, not just ideas. And we offer flexible formats to meet learners where they are: online, in-person, or through tailored organizational engagements.
As part of NDIA’s broader ecosystem, the Business Institute turns insight into action—bridging policy and practice, strategy and execution, innovation and readiness.
What We Offer
Our programming is built around five core pillars designed to meet the evolving needs of the DIB:
- Defense Business Fundamentals & Readiness
For companies and professionals new to defense, this pillar demystifies the landscape and provides the foundation to compete. - Contracting & Compliance
Focused on FAR/DFARS, cybersecurity, pricing, and audit-readiness—this is the essential toolkit for getting and staying compliant. - Leadership & Ethics in National Security
Equipping leaders to navigate complexity, drive mission-aligned outcomes, and lead with integrity in high-stakes environments. - Defense Acquisition, Innovation, & Execution
From blueprint to battlefield, this pillar empowers the people who design, build, and sustain national defense capability. - Talent, Culture & Workforce, Transformation
Helping organizations attract, retain, and develop top talent—especially transitioning veterans and non-traditional entrants into the DIB.
Who We Serve
- Small and mid-sized defense contractors
- BD, capture, contracts, and compliance professionals
- Government acquisition and program teams
- NDIA chapters and corporate partners
- Non-traditional companies entering the defense space
Ready to Learn More?
We’re launching new courses, expanding our instructor network, and building pathways that help you and your organization succeed. Explore our upcoming offerings or reach out to partner with us at businessinstitute@NDIA.org
Topics: Business Institute
Business Institute
