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I’m pleased to report that our second Provider Network engagement event was an overwhelming success. Taking place at QinetiQ’s site in Farnborough across two days in November 2023, it was hugely beneficial to meet with our Provider Network, hearing their thoughts on how the service is performing and what can be done to ensure Futures Lab continues to effectively meet the ever-changing requirements of MOD Front Line Commands.

In a repeat of the event in 2022, we were delighted to welcome James Gavin, Head of Future Capability Group (FCG) and Alex Barnett, FCG Innovation Team Lead. They both provided an update into FCG requirements and talked further about how the relationship with Futures Lab is developing and changing, ultimately ensuring the current framework continues to deliver exceptional innovative, pan-industry solutions in response to the evolution of complex defence threats.

In conjunction with speaker sessions throughout the day, multiple breakout sessions were facilitated by the Futures Lab team, as delegates shared knowledge and expertise around how to approach and solve different issues within the innovation space in the Defence realm.

Discussions focused on the importance of transparent and regular communication with supply chains, which allow organisations to be best placed to support defence initiatives. It was great to learn that the Provider Network valued our efforts and approach to engagement. Following feedback, the team has shared its plans to address on how we further improve the service in 2024.

How to find out more about the Futures Lab service?

Demand to join the Futures Lab Provider Network remains high. If you’re interested in learning more about what Futures Lab is and how it supports Defence, please register your interest in one of our monthly New Joiners Briefings.

What is FCG Futures Lab?

A part of DE&S Future Capability Group (FCG), Futures Lab contributes directly to FCG’s mission of improving the delivery of military capability through innovation, exploitation of technology and provision of impartial advice. The service creates bespoke, collaborative teams pulling in diverse skill sets from across industry and academia - forming specialist ‘rainbow teams’.

FCG Futures Lab is available through the existing Engineering Delivery Partnership (EDP) framework, which is DE&S’ default route to market for contracting engineering services focused on delivering cutting edge military capabilities.

Learn more

• Visit the website
• Follow Futures Lab on LinkedIn.
• For any other enquiries, please get in touch via FsLabProcurement@qinetiq.com