The Department of Defense (DoD) and the Department of Commerce's Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This agreement aims to increase the participation of minority business enterprises (MBEs) within the defense industrial base. The collaboration seeks to enhance MBEs' awareness of supply chain opportunities and promote engagement in defense-related procurement and development programs.

The partnership will leverage networks, expertise, and resources from both agencies to facilitate MBEs' integration into the defense supply chain. Initiatives under this agreement include providing access to specialized training, encouraging supplier diversity, and offering capacity-building programs. These efforts aim to improve MBEs' capabilities, enabling them to contribute effectively to national security needs.

Dr. William LaPlante, Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, stated, "This MOU represents a significant step in expanding access to defense contracts for minority business enterprises, ensuring that our supply chain is diverse, resilient, and capable of addressing the demands of our national defense." He emphasized that working with MBDA allows tapping into a broader talent base that brings unique perspectives and solutions.

The MOU also supports MBDA's mission to enhance the growth and global competitiveness of MBEs by focusing on technical assistance, strategic growth planning, and access to financing. The partnership aims not only at enhancing equitable opportunities in high-growth industries related to defense but also at facilitating connections with DoD programs like APEX Accelerators and the Mentor-Protégé Program.

Eric Morrissette, Deputy Under Secretary of Commerce for Minority Business Development, noted that "a close working relationship between MBDA and the DoD will not only benefit minority business enterprises seeking to enter or expand in the defense industry but it will strengthen our national security." He added that diversifying the defense sector with minority business enterprises establishes a broader hedge against adversaries.

The MOU outlines several objectives: encouraging greater participation from MBEs in defense sector supply chains through collaboration between MBDA and DoD programming; developing workshops on defense procurement; utilizing data-driven insights for market understanding; and providing training through MBDA's network including Business Centers.

This agreement signifies a shared vision between the DoD and MBDA towards fostering an inclusive defense industry by broadening opportunities for MBEs in U.S. national security efforts.