Boeing launches training programme for UK SMEs

Boeing Defence UK has launched a free-to-attend 2026 ‘Cluster Training Programme’ to help UK-based small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) navigate the defence sector. 

To be in with a chance of attending, SMEs need to first provide an expression of interest to the company via email by 27 March. 

The opportunity – published on the UK Ministry of Defence’s (MoD) Contracts Finder website on 16 March – is primarily for SMEs with solutions relating to the following: 

• Maintenance repair and overhaul 
• Composite fabrication and repair 
• Wiring bundles 
• Special processes and treatments 
• Ground support equipment  
• Paints, oils, lubricants and sealants 

The programme involves a series of events which will take place at the Boeing’s site in Bristol, featuring speakers from the company alongside third parties. 

New and existing partners of Boeing UK are invited to attend, with dates being revealed to successful applicants. 

Companies that are selected to attend must complete the ADS Supply Chain Solution Baseline Maturity Assessment to help Boeing ascertain the maturity of the SMEs’ solutions and tailor the training accordingly. 

Besides the training events themselves, participants will have a follow-up session with Boeing and will learn about how to do business with the company itself. 

They will also have the opportunity to showcase their solutions to Boeing’s capability teams and could be invited to join its Capability Assessment Database, which hosts potential suppliers and partners. 

This training programme is an important contribution by a major supplier to the wider UK defence supply chain.  

It comes amid an array of approaches from major suppliers to boost SME engagement. For example, Babcock recently unveiled its SME Defence Charter – designed to reshape its relationship with suppliers. And, BAE Systems unveiled a new ‘Launchpad’ incubator intended to spin out new companies.