This conference connects food system practitioners who are tired of surface-level sustainability talk and industry echo chambers. Over two days, we’ll critically assess the economic reality of food system transformation and sustainability as a driver of competitiveness.
How food and beverage brands are reframing sustainability around risk mitigation, value creation and long-term supply security.
We’ll highlight real-life examples of value chain collaboration and sustainable innovation that drives competitiveness, business resilience and profitability.
How to promote sustainability within R&D as a driver of long-term, strategic business value.
We’ll highlight developments in corporate venture capital, blended finance and cross-sector collaboration to unlock investment. Plus we’ll assess how to connect R&D, agriculture and nutrition with consumer trends to unlock regenerative and resilient food systems.
As US food policy continues to evolve, the focus for farmers remains on practical, outcome-based approaches that make farming economically viable and environmentally sustainable.
We’ll look at how aligning incentives, simplifying metrics, implementing scalable and affordable tech, and fostering genuine collaboration across the value chain can empower farmers to drive both profitability and long-term resilience.
We won’t fund the transition to regenerative agriculture with VC money or government bailouts. The only way is via demand.
We’ll debate how brands can capitalize on consumer trends to create demand for regenerative and deliver transformation at scale.
Held under the Chatham House rule to promote candid conversation that drives real progress. The hard questions, uncomfortable truths and reality of mistakes. This isn’t a PR platform. It is a space for genuine dialogue.
No presentations, no jargon, no scripted panels. All sessions are structured for dynamic discussion and audience participation.
We cap attendance to ensure an intimate forum that brings together the right stakeholders. Every conversation is relevant. Every meeting is valuable. And every connection matters.
You won’t be sat in a large room listening for two days. There’s a major focus on audience participation, interaction and problem solving. Come prepared with questions, ideas, solutions and be ready to get involved.
Every session is driven by the challenges, questions and opinions in the audience. This structure ensures a focus on real world problem solving and the realities on the ground.
An entirely off-the-record format for the most controversial issues. There are no speakers. Instead, the audience leads the conversation. It is a chance to vent, to speak your mind and to challenge (un)conventional thinking.
A structured debate where you may be asked to argue against your beliefs. A format that places you in someone else’s shoes, encourages open thinking and is a lot of fun.
Small group discussions that take a deep dive into very focused topics. Each table is led by a facilitator to keep the conversation on track, while participants share ideas, experiences, challenges and solutions.
Hear from leading experts and businesses. We’re all working towards the same goals. This is a chance to take stock and to take inspiration, ideas and energy for the year ahead.
Real world case studies where speakers are encouraged to share the good, the bad and the ugly. An opportunity to learn from your peers what works, and what doesn’t.
Unilever
Senior Sustainability Manager, Regenerative Agriculture
Dole Food Company
Chief Marketing and Sustainability Officer
Ahold Delhaize
VP Climate and Environment
SVG Ventures
Director of Corporate Programs
Front Porch Farms
Regenerative Farmer
Gentle Farming
Regenerative Farmer
SAI Platform
Communications Director
Learn more about who attends, our conference style and how to get involved.
"Thank you to Innovation Forum for the opportunity to have such an insightful conversation around what is needed from us all to propel conservation agriculture forward."
President, Farm Journal and Trust In Food
Trust in Food
"Enjoyed the content, great speakers, and good conversations in between. Big thanks to Innovation Forum for hosting such a great event."
Global Sustainability, Head Sustainable Futures
Mondelez International
"I highly recommend Innovation Forum events for learning, networking and growth. I I have always found the frank and open conversation incredibly worthwhile and encouraging of meaningful conversation and forging real connections between attendees."
Head of Consulting
Sedex
"You can tell from the comments (of the event) that people were really engaged and invested in being there! That is quite a compliment for your team. "
Vice President – Agricultural Research & Conservation
Sand County Foundation
The conference brings together cross-functional leaders and decision makers within the food and beverage industry. We bring together key stakeholders from across the value chain including suppliers, investors, policy makers and more.
27-28, May 2026
Minneapolis, USA
For any questions on this event, please contact:
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