The ChannelPro Network Advertise

In-Person Event

September 1 - 2, 2026 | Alexandria, Virginia

2026 ChannelPro DEFEND: Alexandria

Hilton Alexandria Mark Center

2026 ChannelPro DEFEND: Alexandria

Ready to reach your next million in cybersecurity revenue? ChannelPro DEFEND is the two-day security event you can’t afford to miss. Built for MSPs, MSSPs, and other IT channel partners, this in-person experience features business-building strategies and threat landscape intel you won’t find anywhere else.

NEW in 2026! Our Day 1 DEFEND Cybersecurity Workshop provides a fully curated journey through four focused tracks: Risk Mitigation, Cybersecurity Response, Business Growth, and Cutting-Edge Tools.

These interactive courses, designed by industry experts and successful MSPs, deliver the secrets to building an IT business that lasts. Plus, you’ll connect with the channel’s top vendors, see exclusive product demos, meet new referral partners, and have a ton of fun.

100% free for qualified channel partners, ChannelPro DEFEND: Alexandria will feature insights from the IT Channel’s leading practitioners and renowned strategists. Join us to learn:

Actionable strategies for selling cybersecurity solutions
Critical tips on preventing catastrophic data breaches
Insight into the latest AI-powered tech to strengthen your security posture
Best practices and tactics for positioning your business as a trusted security partner

Join your fellow IT providers from throughout the region to network. It’s also a golden opportunity to meet the industry’s most innovative vendors, discover new cybersecurity tools, and strike deals that fuel growth.

Event Details

Dates

September 1 - 2, 2026

Multi-Day Event

Location

Alexandria, Virginia

Venue

Hilton Alexandria Mark Center

Cost

Free for Qualified Channel Partners

Registration

Event Schedule

Speakers

Sponsors

Cancellation

Additional Info

Event Registration

Event Schedule

Sep

1

Sep

2

Sessions for Tuesday, September 1, 2026

1:45 PM

Registration opens - AGENDA SUBJECT TO CHANGE - watch this space

2:15 PM

Opening Remarks

Michael Siggins

Founder, Publisher

The ChannelPro Network

2:30 PM

The Bourbon Icebreaker: How to Choose the Right Security Tools

Learn More

Christopher Barber

Cheaper than a Geek

Founder & President

Founder and CEO

Join us for a candid conversation about choosing the right security tools with a twist. Between sips of bourbon, our experts will break down how to choose, stack, and justify the right security tools for your clients. If you want to scale without overspending, this discussion is can't-miss.

3:05 PM

Breakout Session: Evaluating the Threat Landscape: Actionable Intelligence for IT Providers

Learn More

Rocket Fuel Factory

3rd Element Consulting

In this powerful breakout session, our experts dig into new data from the industry's biggest threat reports and translate it into what actually matters for MSPs on the ground. You’ll hear the numbers, the trends, and—most importantly—the real-world impact behind them so you can adjust your defenses, guide clients, and stay ahead of what’s coming next.

3:05 PM

Breakout Session: Sticky by Design: How to Leverage Security to Build Client Loyalty

Learn More

Founder & President

Founder & Owner

Equilibrium Consulting, LLC

Landing security clients is one thing—keeping them is the real game. During this breakout session, we're diving into the habits, communication rhythms, and service touches that install confidence and ensure contract renewals. Walk away with practical ways to grow business relationships without constantly re-proving your value.

3:40 PM

Sponsor presentations, product demos, partner program updates and more!

4:50 PM

Breakout Session: You Are the First Line of Defense: Cyber Hygiene for MSP Leaders

Learn More

Rocket Fuel Factory

3rd Element Consulting

Cybersecurity leaders are prime targets, and this fast-paced workshop shows you exactly how attackers exploit your personal exposure to breach businesses, damage reputations, and run social engineering campaigns. Join us to map your digital footprint, spot your weak points, and walk away with a clear, practical plan to protect your identity, reputation, and the clients who rely on you.

4:50 PM

Breakout Session: Your First Call in an Emergency: Dissecting Your Incident Response Plan

Learn More

Christopher Barber

Cheaper than a Geek

BASE Solutions LLC

When something goes sideways in IT, every second counts. This dynamic breakout session highlights the elements that go into a stellar incident response plan. You'll learn exactly what should happen in the first hour, who owns which decisions, and how to keep a small emergency from turning into a full-blown disaster.

5:25 PM

Vendor Preference Directory - Cast Your Vote!

5:35 PM

New Realities and Risks: How MSPs Can Protect Their Bottom Line

Learn More

Sponsored by Channel Hunters

Sponsored by Cylerian

Sponsored by Acronis

Let's pull back the curtain on the biggest forces reshaping the MSP business today. In this panel discussion, we're putting vendor experts on the hot seat to discuss the trends that matter most: consolidation, compliance demands, tool sprawl, pricing, and more. Bring your questions and walk away with a sharper understanding of where the IT industry is going and how to stay profitable.

6:05 PM

Day 1 Closing Remarks

Michael Siggins

Founder, Publisher

The ChannelPro Network

6:10 PM

Welcome Cocktail Reception in the Exhibit Hall [Sponsored by Ciardi Ciardi Astin]

Sessions for Wednesday, September 2, 2026

7:30 AM

Networking Breakfast

8:30 AM

Opening Remarks

Michael Siggins

Founder, Publisher

The ChannelPro Network

8:45 AM

Adopting a Security Framework: Guarding Against the Most Dangerous Cyberattacks

Learn More

Rocket Fuel Factory

Founder & President

Security frameworks aren’t paperwork. They’re the blueprint that helps you safeguard clients, detect and respond to threats, and recover when the #@$% hits the fan. In this session, we’ll break down how to choose the right framework, map it to real threats MSPs face every day, and translate it into actionable steps you can take as soon as you get home.

9:15 AM

Sponsor presentations, product demos, partner program updates and more!

10:25 AM

Break

10:35 AM

How to Automate Your MSP and Scale with AI

Learn More

Owner & Founder

MSP Sales Revolution

3rd Element Consulting

Many MSPs want to hop on the automation hype train, but the biggest gains come from fixing workflows and adopting AI internally first. This session will show how to target the right processes and get quick wins without sacrificing security.

11:05 AM

Sponsor presentations, product demos, partner program updates and more!

12:30 PM

Product & Services Expo Luncheon

2:00 PM

Channel’s Got Talent: Cybersecurity Pitch Edition

Learn More

Technical Editor

Owner & Founder

MSP Sales Revolution

Founder & Owner

Equilibrium Consulting, LLC

Founder and CEO

Want to avoid the after-lunch food coma? In this fast and fun showdown, four brave attendees will pitch their cybersecurity services. After getting honest (and perhaps slightly silly) feedback from our judges, they'll try again with a stronger, sharper pitch. The crowd will vote, one champion will emerge, and the winner earns bragging rights and eternal glory.

2:35 PM

Who Is Liable When AI Fails?

Learn More

Law Office of Bradley Gross, PA

AI and automation tools promise efficiency, but when they misfire, MSPs are left holding the legal bag. In this session, Brad Gross, one of the nation’s leading MSP attorneys, reveals the hidden liabilities of AI adoption, and how to draft protective language into your MSAs and SOWs before disaster strikes.

3:05 PM

Selling With Insight: Using Data to Find Hidden Revenue

Learn More

3rd Element Consulting

BASE Solutions LLC

Most MSPs sit on a goldmine of data without realizing it. This session shows you how to dig into ticket trends, asset details, and security gaps to find new sales opportunities. You’ll learn simple ways to take a data-driven approach and deliver smarter recommendations and stronger proposals

3:35 PM

How Not to Get Sued: Local Legal Issues for **Virginia* MSPs

Learn More

Law Office of Bradley Gross, PA

Back by popular demand, Bradley Gross returns with a hard-hitting session built specifically for **Virginia** MSPs. It’s a risky time to be in tech services, and one lawsuit can drain your time, money, and reputation. Bradley will break down the biggest legal threats MSPs in the **South** face, the mistakes that spark lawsuits, and the concrete steps you need to take today to protect your business.

4:05 PM

Sponsor Awards Voting

4:15 PM

The 4th Quarter Speech: Adjustments You Need to Make to Win the Game

Learn More

Christopher Barber

Cheaper than a Geek

This is the locker-room talk every MSP needs before heading back onto the field. In this inspirational featured session, we'll tie the lessons you've learned at ChannelPro DEFEND to practical next steps. We'll deliver a concrete plan to confront the challenges in your business, implement the right strategies, and coach your employees to success.

4:45 PM

Partner in Excellence Award

Learn More

Help us celebrate greatness at our Partner in Excellence Award Ceremony. We'll recognize a local IT channel legend for their leadership, innovation, camaraderie, and commitment to building the industry.

5:00 PM

Sponsor Awards & Attendee Giveaways!

5:20 PM

Closing Remarks

Michael Siggins

Founder, Publisher

The ChannelPro Network

Speakers

Speakers

Christopher Barber

Chief Nerd

Cheaper than a Geek

Learn More

Christopher Barber is the Founder, CEO, and Chief Nerd at Cheaper Than A Geek®, an award-winning IT services firm known for delivering enterprise-level support to small businesses. With well over two decades of experience in the IT industry, Christopher has built a reputation as a leader in providing innovative, customer-centric solutions that empower businesses to thrive in a digital world. He has served at the executive level on multiple chamber boards, including the Maryland State Chamber of Commerce, and is a frequent speaker on topics ranging from cybersecurity to the strategic benefits of IT outsourcing. Christopher’s dedication to exceptional service and community engagement has earned him numerous accolades, including recognition as a Most Admired CEO by The Daily Record and as a U.S. Chamber of Commerce Top 100 Small Business honoree.

The Bourbon Icebreaker: How to Choose the Right Security Tools

Sep 1, 2026 2:30pm

Breakout Session: Your First Call in an Emergency: Dissecting Your Incident Response Plan

Sep 1, 2026 4:50pm

The 4th Quarter Speech: Adjustments You Need to Make to Win the Game

Sep 2, 2026 4:15pm

President/CEO

BASE Solutions LLC

Learn More

Atul is a seasoned IT professional who began his career as an in-house support technician for a law firm before moving into management. Early on, he learned the importance of clear communication about how technology works and the benefits it brings when used effectively. He later joined an MSP, supporting multiple clients, but was disheartened to see services delivered in a one-size-fits-all way—often prioritizing the MSP's efficiency over client needs. In 2009, Atul founded BASE Solutions in Tysons Corner, Virginia, with a different vision. He built the company on a personal, customized approach to IT. Atul takes the time to understand each client’s business and communicates solutions in plain language that non-technical professionals can easily grasp. This client-focused model remains the foundation of BASE Solutions, ensuring that every service is tailored, practical, and aligned with each client’s goals—not just industry standards or vendor preferences.

Breakout Session: Your First Call in an Emergency: Dissecting Your Incident Response Plan

Sep 1, 2026 4:50pm

Selling With Insight: Using Data to Find Hidden Revenue

Sep 2, 2026 3:05pm

Owner & Founder

MSP Sales Revolution

Learn More

Jennifer Bleam is a best-selling author, an award-winning speaker, and a respected leader in the IT channel. She has coached over 2,000 MSPs on marketing and sales best practices, based on her real-life success as an MSP business owner. Jennifer also grew a channel-only cybersecurity software firm from start up to acquisition in less than 2 years. Part of her role included coaching MSPs on how to sell cybersecurity to small and medium sized companies. Jennifer trained with Sandler Training and attended CharTec Sales lab. She founded MSP Sales Revolution to help MSPs master the art of cybersecurity sales quickly, easily, and profitably.

How to Automate Your MSP and Scale with AI

Sep 2, 2026 10:35am

Channel’s Got Talent: Cybersecurity Pitch Edition

Sep 2, 2026 2:00pm

Founder & Owner

Equilibrium Consulting, LLC

Learn More

Pete Busam is the founder and owner of Equilibrium Consulting, LLC, a management consulting and outsourced marketing firm specializing in assisting channel and technology services organizations with establishing partner relationships, and directing IT channel strategy, design and execution. He has more than 35 years of experience in the channel, where he began as a technician. Since then, he has operated several successful technology services providers and continues to be recognized by clients, partners and channel publications for his outstanding performance, commitment and contributions to the industry. His thought-provoking insights on the channel have been published by numerous industry-leading trade publications, including CRN, ChannelPro, Channel Futures and Channel Insider. An industry thought leader, he has given presentations and participated in panel discussions at numerous channel events over the years. He has also provided commentary on the industry for The Philadelphia Business Journal, Entrepreneur and the Wall Street Journal. Fully committed to the communities he immerses himself in, Pete is an active member with GTIA, The Sales Association Sales Leader Council, Forbes

Breakout Session: Sticky by Design: How to Leverage Security to Build Client Loyalty

Sep 1, 2026 3:05pm

Channel’s Got Talent: Cybersecurity Pitch Edition

Sep 2, 2026 2:00pm

President

Law Office of Bradley Gross, PA

Learn More

Brad Gross is the founding partner of the Law Office of Bradley Gross, P.A., a law firm that specializes in transactions involving technology service providers, solution resellers, IT professionals and technology companies worldwide. Brad is one of the leading international legal authorities in cloud transactions, having counseled thousands of MSPs nationwide for over 23 years. He has been listed on fifteen occasions to the national list of Super Lawyers in IT & Technology Law. Brad has his own podcast, TechnologyBradcast.com, that covers security, licensing, and contract issues for MSPs, and sits on the Board of Digitunity, a non-profit organization that helps close the digital divide. He is also the founding partner of MSPTerms, a cloud-based document management platform engineered for MSPs.

Who Is Liable When AI Fails?

Sep 2, 2026 2:35pm

How Not to Get Sued: Local Legal Issues for **Virginia* MSPs

Sep 2, 2026 3:35pm

Founder and CEO

NEXTGen IT

Learn More

Trevor Hardy is the Founder and CEO of NEXTGen IT, a nationally recognized Managed Service Provider (MSP) and cybersecurity firm. Known as the “Cyber Cowboy” and Head Nerd, Trevor brings over 20 years of experience in IT, cybersecurity, compliance, and business technology strategy. As a veteran, entrepreneur, and cybersecurity advocate, he helps organizations strengthen their security posture, improve business continuity, and navigate today’s evolving threat landscape.

Trevor has led NEXTGen IT’s growth into a trusted technology partner for businesses across multiple industries, with a strong focus on cybersecurity, disaster recovery, compliance, and managed IT services. He is passionate about educating business leaders on cyber risk and practical security solutions, combining real-world experience with an engaging, down-to-earth presentation style.

When he’s not fighting cyber threats, Trevor can be found helping his community, mentoring future IT professionals, and living out the Cyber Cowboy motto: “Keep Moving Forward.”

The Bourbon Icebreaker: How to Choose the Right Security Tools

Sep 1, 2026 2:30pm

Channel’s Got Talent: Cybersecurity Pitch Edition

Sep 2, 2026 2:00pm

Founder & President

Resilient IT

Learn More

Kevin is the Founder and President of Resilient IT. An IT veteran with nearly three decades of experience, Kevin founded Resilient IT (then Quad M Tech) in 2017, and rebranded the company as Resilient IT in 2022. Resilient IT was founded with the vision of serving the technology needs of small and medium businesses in the Northern Virginia and Washington DC metropolitan areas. In 2019, Kevin shifted Resilient IT’s focus to helping businesses that work with the Department of Defense meet the requirements of the evolving Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) and has become the self proclaimed CMMC Jedi. He recognized that faced with what’s required to become CMMC compliant, businesses that have never previously been scrutinized or assessed might be experiencing a bit of culture shock. In 2022, Kevin earned his CCP (CMMC Certified Professional) certification, in 2024 Kevin earned his CCA (CMMC Certified Assessor) and centered his CMMC focus on the goal of helping government contractors protect themselves from foreign threat actors seeking unlawful access to government data. Kevin participates in executive leadership programs in the Northern Virginia, DC Metro area (IoTSSA, NSITSP, NVTC, ASAE, ASCII, CompTia , ChannelPro). He is committed to helping drive the local area business community. When not working, he enjoys traveling, movies, concerts, music, and rooting for the New York Yankees, Miami Dolphins, and Alabama Crimson Tide.

The Bourbon Icebreaker: How to Choose the Right Security Tools

Sep 1, 2026 2:30pm

Breakout Session: Sticky by Design: How to Leverage Security to Build Client Loyalty

Sep 1, 2026 3:05pm

Adopting a Security Framework: Guarding Against the Most Dangerous Cyberattacks

Sep 2, 2026 8:45am

Michael Siggins

Founder, Publisher

The ChannelPro Network

Learn More

Michael Siggins is the founder and publisher of The ChannelPro Network. Since March 2007 the network has been providing targeted business and technology information for the IT channel. Via its print and online properties, the network delivers expert opinion, analysis, news, product reviews, and advice vital to business success. Michael is also president and publisher of ChannelPro: The Insider’s Guide to SMB, the only channel media property dedicated to the needs of channel professionals working in the SMB marketplace. Prior to founding The ChannelPro Network, Michael worked for more than 14 years at IDG, the world’s leading technology media, events, and research company.

Opening Remarks

Sep 1, 2026 2:15pm

Day 1 Closing Remarks

Sep 1, 2026 6:05pm

Opening Remarks

Sep 2, 2026 8:30am

Closing Remarks

Sep 2, 2026 5:20pm

CEO

3rd Element Consulting

Learn More

Dawn Sizer is a CEO and technologist with security, training, and policy specializations. She can make complex technical information relatable for any audience. This is showcased in her writings, speaking engagements, her MSP (3rd Element), and podcast (Rebel Executives). 3rd Element incorporated in 2005 and has made CRN’s MSP 500 list for the last four years. Dawn has been nominated as one of the top women in the channel for the last three years, holds an MBA in IT, as well as industry standard certifications. She sits on Partner Advisory councils of five of the top distributors, security, and cyber insurance companies in the space, as well as The Channel Company for XChange and Women of the Channel. Dawn has been married for more than 25 years to her husband and partner in everything. They have two boys and two goofy dogs, Pilot and Odin.

Breakout Session: Evaluating the Threat Landscape: Actionable Intelligence for IT Providers

Sep 1, 2026 3:05pm

Breakout Session: You Are the First Line of Defense: Cyber Hygiene for MSP Leaders

Sep 1, 2026 4:50pm

How to Automate Your MSP and Scale with AI

Sep 2, 2026 10:35am

Selling With Insight: Using Data to Find Hidden Revenue

Sep 2, 2026 3:05pm

Cofounder

Rocket Fuel Factory

Learn More

Henry Timm is a technology executive, cybersecurity advocate, and community builder focused on one clear mission: build stronger businesses, stronger communities, and a stronger IT industry. As CEO of Phantom Technology Solutions, Henry leads a performance-driven Managed IT Services Provider supporting compliance-focused SMBs across the Midwest. His firm partners with manufacturing, healthcare, and other regulated organizations to modernize, stabilize, and secure their technology environments with solutions designed for long-term reliability and accountability. He is also the cofounder of Rocket Fuel Factory, a business accelerator and incubator built to help MSPs, vendors, and IT consultants scale through community, coaching, and disciplined execution. Through education, strategic partnership, and practical enablement, Rocket Fuel Factory equips leaders to grow with intention rather than drift with the market. Henry is one of the original cofounders of The Tech Degenerates, a global community of MSPs, IT operators, and technology leaders committed to honest conversations, peer accountability, and raising operational standards across the channel. The community is known for cutting through noise, rejecting hype, and creating a space where experienced professionals can challenge each other, share lessons learned, and strengthen the industry from the inside out. With more than two decades of experience spanning IT leadership, cybersecurity, support, and software development, Henry operates at the intersection of technology strategy, operational discipline, and community engagement. He is known for addressing hard truths, guiding teams through meaningful change, and helping organizations build resilience that holds up under pressure. Henry serves in leadership on the GTIA Cybersecurity Executive Council and on the GTIA Global Leadership Committee. He is also an active member of FBI InfraGard. He advises vendors, nonprofits, peer groups, and event organizers committed to raising the bar for professionalism and security across the IT channel. He regularly cohosts MSP Community Live, a livestream series dedicated to elevating the broader IT community, and is a frequent podcast guest and industry contributor sharing insights on leadership, cybersecurity, compliance, and channel trends. His recognitions include CRN MSP 500 and Pioneer 250, Michiana Forty Under 40, the GTIA Community Leadership Award, a nomination for the GTIA Cybersecurity Leadership Award, and nominations for both the CompTIA Community Leadership Award and the Ernestine M. Raclin Community Leadership Award. Outside of his professional work, Henry remains active in initiatives supporting economic development, veterans, disaster relief, and civil rights advocacy. He welcomes opportunities to collaborate with leaders who are serious about building well, serving others, and moving the industry forward with integrity.

Breakout Session: Evaluating the Threat Landscape: Actionable Intelligence for IT Providers

Sep 1, 2026 3:05pm

Breakout Session: You Are the First Line of Defense: Cyber Hygiene for MSP Leaders

Sep 1, 2026 4:50pm

Adopting a Security Framework: Guarding Against the Most Dangerous Cyberattacks

Sep 2, 2026 8:45am

Technical Editor

ChannelPro

Learn More

Matt Whitlock is responsible for the strategic direction and technical content of ChannelProNetwork.com. He brings more than 20 years’ experience working in the technology industry to his reviews, analysis, and general musings about all things gadget and gear. Matt’s decade of experience in online media, community management, and web development has been instrumental in propelling the ChannelPro brand into the digital future. Matt also lends his vocal talent (and sense of humor) as host for the ChannelPro Weekly Podcast, a weekly audio program specifically tailored for resellers, VARs, MSPs, and system builders. His spare time is devoted primarily to his wife and two wonderful children as sports cheerleader, amateur chauffeur, opener of jars, target for NERF bullets, maker of coffee and sandwiches, changer of AA and AAA batteries, and fixer of computers.

Channel’s Got Talent: Cybersecurity Pitch Edition

Sep 2, 2026 2:00pm

Sponsors

Cancellation

Registration Cancellation

ChannelPro events are free for qualified MSPs and IT channel partners. Our staff reviews all registration information, and if the business details you provide on the form do not meet the required qualifications, your registration will be canceled. If you need to modify or cancel your registration, please email us at events@channelpronetwork.com.

Additional Info

Event Location:

Hilton Alexandria Mark Center

📍 5000 Seminary Rd, Alexandria, VA 22311

Hilton Alexandria Mark Center is a modern hotel located just minutes from downtown Alexandria and a short drive to Washington, D.C. It offers spacious guest rooms, flexible meeting spaces, and a full-service business center. Guests can enjoy on-site dining, a fitness center, and an indoor pool. Conveniently located near major highways, Metro access, and local attractions, the hotel provides both comfort and easy access for conference attendees and visitors exploring the D.C. area.

Parking

Parking is $15 a day. However, event attendees can park for free. Simply visit the event registration desk to get your parking ticket validated.

Registration Terms and Conditions

Our sponsors make ChannelPro Events possible: We are proud to present a showcase of vendor solutions at every event to provide additional learning opportunities and enable channel pros to get one-on-one advice on employing new technologies and services to better serve their clients and their own businesses. Contact information of event registrants is shared with sponsors to allow them to keep you up to date on their solutions. By attending this event, you consent to being photographed or filmed for promotional use, such as on social media, marketing materials, and our website, to capture and share memorable moments. All registrants are enrolled in the ChannelPro Insider program and are eligible for free resources. You can unsubscribe at any time. If you are a resident of California, you can click here CCPA form.

Event Incentives

Event incentives are available only to applicants whose attendance applications have been approved. Speakers, vendors, sponsors, and event guests are not eligible for incentives. Incentives are limited to a maximum of two (2) gift cards and two (2) complimentary hotel rooms per company, per calendar year. ChannelPro reserves the right to modify, suspend, or discontinue incentive offerings at any time.

Attendee Code of Conduct

ChannelPro Code of Conduct

Privacy Policy

CyberRisk Alliance privacy policy. The ChannelPro Network is part of CyberRisk Alliance, LLC.

About ChannelPro

The ChannelPro Network is a media company providing targeted business and technology information for IT decision makers and channel partners. Via its websites, live events and quarterly special reports, The ChannelPro Network delivers expert opinion, analysis, news, product reviews, and advice for IT decision makers and channel partners. Perspectives from partners, vendors, distributors, and analysts are spotlighted daily.

Explore ChannelPro

Reach Our Audience

Advertise

400 Madison Ave. Suite 6C
New York, NY 10017

Copyright © ChannelPro Network. All rights reserved. All trademarks, logos, and copyrights are property of their respective owners.