BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//The Good Food Institute - ECPv6.18.0//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:The Good Food Institute X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://gfi.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for The Good Food Institute REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20240310T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20241103T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20270314T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20271107T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260314T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260314T170000 DTSTAMP:20260302T142822Z CREATED:20260225T135309Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260302T142822Z UID:10000758-1773496800-1773507600@gfi.org SUMMARY:The Future of Protein Forum @ SXSW (Regen House) DESCRIPTION:The Future of Protein Forum @ SXSW (Regen House)Past\n\n\n\n\nGFI is bringing protein diversification to SXSW. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nFeeding a growing global population sustainably will require a range of protein solutions. That conversation is coming to SXSW. \n\n\n\nOn March 14\, GFI’s Shayna Fertig\, Senior Advisor to the President\, will join leaders across food\, agriculture\, health\, and conservation for The Future of Protein Forum at Regen House. The gathering will examine how protein diversification can help meet rising demand while strengthening supply chains\, supporting farmers\, and reducing resource intensity. \n\n\n\nShayna will share GFI’s perspective on the role of alternative proteins within a broader\, more resilient protein landscape—alongside speakers including: \n\n\n\n\nAmbassador Ertharin Cousin (Food Systems for the Future Institute)\n\n\n\nEthan Soloviev (HowGood)\n\n\n\nMaggie Hanna (Central Grasslands Roadmap Initiative)\n\n\n\nTom Brenna (Dell Medical School)\n\n\n\nKatie Rose McCullough (The Meat Foundation)\n\n\n\n\nSXSW convenes leaders from across technology\, policy\, and entrepreneurship. We’re glad to ensure that the future of protein is part of that exchange. \n\n\n\n\n\nGFI speaker\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nShayna Fertig\n\n\n\nSENIOR ADVISOR TO THE PRESIDENT \n\n\n\nShayna works closely with GFI’s president to build and maintain high level relationships across influencers in climate\, biodiversity\, and global health. She most recently worked at Impossible Foods leading strategic projects and analytics for their foodservice sales team as a Sales Operations Manager. Prior to Impossible\, Shayna worked at Censeo Consulting Group\, providing strategic and operational support for government agencies and nonprofits. She holds a B.S. in Economics from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and a B.S. in Systems Engineering from the University of Pennsylvania. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/the-future-of-protein-forum-sxsw-regen-house/ CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/COM24004_featured-events_climate-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260305T193000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260305T203000 DTSTAMP:20260226T172259Z CREATED:20260226T172258Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260226T172259Z UID:10000760-1772739000-1772742600@gfi.org SUMMARY:Plant-Based Community Reception  DESCRIPTION:Plant-Based Community Reception (Expo West)Past\n\n\n\n\nJoin the Good Food Institute and the Plant Based Foods Association (PBFA) at the SPINS booth #616 for a Plant-Based Community Reception at 4:30 pm on Thursday\, March 5. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nThis free and open gathering for Expo West badge holders brings together leaders from across the plant-based ecosystem for connection\, conversation\, and continued learning. Earlier in the day\, GFI will share new consumer research on how today’s health-focused market is shaping value in the plant-based category. This reception offers a chance to continue the dialogue\, engage with the speakers\, and explore what the findings mean for strategy and growth. \n\n\n\nEnjoy refreshing beverages as you connect with the PBFA team and leaders across the plant-based space\, and explore GFI’s latest research briefs and industry resources to take the insights even further. \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent location\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/plant-based-community-reception/ CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/svg+xml:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/third-party-event-featured-image_UNIVERSAL.svg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260305T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260305T160000 DTSTAMP:20260302T142737Z CREATED:20260218T175155Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260302T142737Z UID:10000756-1772722800-1772726400@gfi.org SUMMARY:Natural Products Expo West – Competing on Health: Insights for Plant-Based Brands DESCRIPTION:Natural Products Expo West – Competing on Health: Insights for Plant-Based BrandsPast\n\n\n\n\nAs “health” continues to redefine the food industry\, GFI is bringing fresh data and real-world insights to Expo West. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nHealth isn’t just a trend—it’s reshaping the competitive landscape of food. \n\n\n\nAt Natural Products Expo West\, GFI will lead a timely conversation on how evolving definitions of “healthy” are influencing consumer behavior and shaping growth in the plant-based category. \n\n\n\nIn “Competing on Health: Insights for Plant-Based Brands\,” Taylor Leet-Otley\, GFI’s Senior Consumer Research Lead\, will share new consumer and category research exploring how different audiences interpret health—and how much it actually drives purchasing decisions. From there\, Pat McAuley\, GFI’s Startup Innovation Lead\, will guide a candid panel discussion with plant-based brand leaders on product formulation\, positioning strategies\, and the lessons they’ve learned in an increasingly health-forward market. \n\n\n\nTogether\, the session will unpack: \n\n\n\n\nHow consumers define “healthy” across segments\n\n\n\nWhere health creates value—and where it creates friction\n\n\n\nWhat brands are getting right (and wrong)\n\n\n\nHow to compete strategically in today’s health-focused environment\n\n\n\n\nIf you’re navigating the intersection of plant-based innovation and consumer expectations\, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent location\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGFI speakers\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTaylor Leet-Otley\n\n\n\nSENIOR CONSUMER RESEARCH LEAD \n\n\n\nTaylor Leet-Otley oversees GFI’s consumer research\, keeping the organization and the industry in touch with consumers’ needs & beliefs in the fast-moving alternative protein category. Taylor joined GFI with a background as a consultant focused on market research\, consumer insights\, and strategy. He worked in a diverse range of industries including CPG\, energy\, recycling\, healthcare\, and consumer tech\, with a focus on brand management\, B2B strategy\, and market entry. He graduated from Wesleyan University with a BA in Neuroscience and Religion. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPat McAuley\n\n\n\nSTARTUP INNOVATION LEAD \n\n\n\nPat McAuley works with the Corporate Engagement team\, serving as the primary contact for alternative protein entrepreneurs and startups. Prior to joining GFI\, Pat was a multi-time founder having started businesses in food and beverage as well as tech\, most recently founding a multi-unit fast casual plant-based restaurant brand. He holds a degree in Management Engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/natural-products-expo-west-competing-on-health-insights-for-plant-based-brands/ LOCATION:Marriott\, 700 W Convention Way\, Anaheim\, California\, 92802\, United States CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/COM24004_featured-events_industry.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260224T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260224T235959 DTSTAMP:20260126T164548Z CREATED:20260126T164444Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260126T164548Z UID:10000746-1771891200-1771977599@gfi.org SUMMARY:Future of Protein Production – Chicago DESCRIPTION:Future of Protein Production – ChicagoPast\n\n\n\n\nGFI is heading to Chicago! Join Bruce Friedrich\, Patrick McAuley\, and leading voices across science\, policy\, and industry for a solutions-focused summit on the future of food. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nAt a time when food systems are increasingly under pressure\, the Future of Protein Production conference offers a critical space to chart a better course forward. From biomanufacturing bottlenecks to nutrition innovation\, GFI team members will help guide the conversation on what’s possible—and what’s needed. \n\n\n\nOn stage (February 24): \n\n\n\n9:15–9:40 a.m. — Keynote: Does Our Food System Need a Rethink? \n\n\n\nGFI President Bruce Friedrich draws from his new book\, Meat\, and his experience at COP30 to make the case for reimagining meat production in service of climate\, food security\, and public health. \n\n\n\n10:20–11:00 a.m. — Panel: Addressing Hurdles & Barriers to Change \n\n\n\nModerated by Bruce Friedrich\, this panel explores the real-world obstacles facing alt proteins—from investment and corporate inertia to regulatory and infrastructure challenges. Featuring Caitlin Balagula (USDA)\, Lou Cooperhouse (BlueNalu)\, and Glenn Hurowitz (Mighty Earth). \n\n\n\n12:30–1:00 p.m. — Panel: High Protein to Healthy Protein—Reaching a Balance? \n\n\n\nGFI’s Patrick McAuley joins Myospan\, Nature’s Fynd\, and Replicator VC to discuss how nutrition\, consumer trust\, and product development are shaping the next generation of alt protein offerings. \n\n\n\n5:00–5:30 p.m. — Fireside: Digging into the Details – Future of Food \n\n\n\nIn this closing fireside chat\, Bruce Friedrich sits down with podcast host Alex Crisp (Future of Foods Interviews) for an intimate conversation about GFI’s global strategy\, his new book\, and what’s next for the field. Audience Q&A included. \n\n\n\nWith 80+ speakers\, 40+ sessions\, and 10+ hours of networking\, this event connects stakeholders across research\, production\, retail\, and investment. Don’t miss the Startup Innovation Zone and interactive pitch symposiums showcasing what’s next in alt protein. \n\n\n\nJoin us in building a protein supply that’s sustainable\, secure\, and just. See you in Chicago. \n\n\n\n\n\nGFI speakers\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBruce Friedrich\n\n\n\nPRESIDENT AND FOUNDER \n\n\n\nBruce Friedrich serves as GFI’s chief thought leader and relationship-builder\, working in close partnership with GFI’s global teams and food system stakeholders around the world. Bruce is a TED Fellow\, Y Combinator alum\, and popular speaker on food innovation. He has penned op-eds for the Wall Street Journal\, Foreign Policy\, Nature Food\, USA Today\, Los Angeles Times\, Wired\, CNN\, and many other publications. He has represented GFI on the TED Radio Hour\, New Yorker Radio Hour\, the Ezra Klein Show\, Making Sense (Sam Harris)\, and a variety of other podcasts and TV programs. Bruce’s 2019 TED talk has been viewed more than 2.4 million times and translated into 30 languages. \n\n\n\nPublishers Weekly selected Bruce’s book Meat as a top 10 new release in science\, writing: “This packed account makes food science feel like an urgent and essential undertaking.” The book has also received praise from father of synthetic biology George Church\, Nobel Laureate in economics Michael Kremer\, former UNFCCC head Christiana Figueres\, and CSIS director of global food and water security Caitlin Welsh\, who penned the foreword. Says Welsh: “This book explains the imperative to transform our food systems\, and lays out a game plan to get us there…. Meat is as important as it is enjoyable.” Find out more on the book’s website\, MeatBook.org. \n\n\n\nBruce graduated magna cum laude from Georgetown Law and also holds degrees from Johns Hopkins University\, the London School of Economics\, and Grinnell College. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPat McAuley\n\n\n\nSTARTUP INNOVATION LEAD \n\n\n\nPat McAuley works with the Corporate Engagement team\, serving as the primary contact for alternative protein entrepreneurs and startups. Prior to joining GFI\, Pat was a multi-time founder having started businesses in food and beverage as well as tech\, most recently founding a multi-unit fast casual plant-based restaurant brand. He holds a degree in Management Engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/future-of-protein-production-chicago/ CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/svg+xml:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/third-party-event-featured-image_UNIVERSAL.svg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260211T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260211T203000 DTSTAMP:20260203T190708Z CREATED:20260203T190705Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260203T190708Z UID:10000751-1770834600-1770841800@gfi.org SUMMARY:Environmental Film Festival in the Nation’s Capital – 2026 Preview Event DESCRIPTION:Environmental Film Festival in the Nation’s Capital – 2026 Preview EventPast\n\n\n\n\nFor the second year in a row\, GFI is teaming up with the Environmental Film Festival in the Nation’s Capital—this time for their exclusive 2026 Preview Event! \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nWe’re thrilled to participate in the Environmental Film Festival in the Nation’s Capital—the world’s premier showcase of environmentally themed films. Each year\, DCEFF brings together filmmakers\, scientists\, policymakers\, and advocates to explore the planet’s most pressing challenges through the lens of film. The 2026 lineup features documentaries\, shorts\, and feature films on biodiversity\, climate justice\, ocean conservation\, and more. \n\n\n\nThis February\, for the first time\, GFI will join DCEFF’s Preview Event—a special screening of standout selections from this year’s festival\, hosted at Georgetown University. The event will feature trailers\, early clips\, and an engaging tabling session with GFI and other mission-aligned organizations. \n\n\n\nRepresenting GFI will be Tina Rodousakis\, Associate Director of Policy Engagement\, alongside members of our DC-based team. They’ll share how alternative proteins intersect with climate action and food system sustainability—and connect with attendees from government\, academia\, and the broader environmental community. \n\n\n\nThank you to the DCEFF team for the warm welcome back. We’re excited to be part of another powerful year of storytelling and systems change. \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent location\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGFI speaker\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTina Rodousakis \n\n\n\nASSOCIATE DIRECTOR\, POLICY ENGAGEMENTTina and her team drive implementation of GFI’s public policy and government relations initiatives through effective coalition building\, advocacy content creation\, legislative targeting\, and stakeholder engagement. Prior to joining GFI\, Tina worked for the largest U.S.-based international humanitarian relief and development organization for more than two decades in a variety of policy advocacy and legislative affairs roles. Most recently\, she served as the Senior Director of Movement-Building and Issue-Based Campaigns\, creating and operationalizing a strategy to organize and mobilize 100\,000+ grassroots and grasstops constituencies across the United States to advocate on global poverty\, hunger and climate change policy issues. She holds a master’s degree in political science and bachelor’s degrees in communications and political science from the University of Vienna\, Austria. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/environmental-film-festival-in-the-nations-capital-2026-preview-event/ LOCATION:Georgetown University\, 3700 O St NW\, Washington\, District of Columbia\, 20057\, United States CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/svg+xml:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/third-party-event-featured-image_UNIVERSAL.svg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260125T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260130T235959 DTSTAMP:20250604T144702Z CREATED:20250604T144701Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250604T144702Z UID:10000696-1769299200-1769817599@gfi.org SUMMARY:Foods of the Future: Science and Engineering Approaches (Gordon Research Conference) DESCRIPTION:Foods of the Future: Science and Engineering Approaches (Gordon Research Conference)Past\n\n\n\n\nThe focus of this conference is to bring the multi-disciplinary future food community under one roof with a singular focus: collaboratively advancing the science and engineering of safe and scalable production systems for sustainable agriculture. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nThe Foods of the Future: Science and Engineering Approaches GRC is a premier\, international scientific conference focused on advancing the frontiers of science through the presentation of cutting-edge and unpublished research\, prioritizing time for discussion after each talk and fostering informal interactions among scientists of all career stages. The conference program includes a diverse range of speakers and discussion leaders from institutions and organizations worldwide\, concentrating on the latest developments in the field. The conference is five days long and held in a remote location to increase the sense of camaraderie and create scientific communities\, with lasting collaborations and friendships. In addition to premier talks\, the conference has designated time for poster sessions from individuals of all career stages\, and afternoon free time and communal meals allow for informal networking opportunities with leaders in the field. \n\n\n\n“Foods of the Future: Science and Engineering Approaches” will focus on advancing plant-based\, cultivated (cell-cultured)\, and fermentation science and technology to support the development of a more sustainable\, resilient\, and equitable food system. \n\n\n\nThis convening will be a significant milestone for the alternative protein field. Learn why here. \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent location\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/foods-of-the-future-science-and-engineering-approaches-gordon-research-conference/ LOCATION:Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center\, 601 West McKinley Ave.\, Pomona\, California\, 91768\, United States CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/COM24004_featured-events_knowledge-partner-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260108T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260108T170000 DTSTAMP:20251210T205732Z CREATED:20251210T205729Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251210T205732Z UID:10000739-1767866400-1767891600@gfi.org SUMMARY:2026 Tufts Future Food Innovation Day DESCRIPTION:2026 Tufts Future Food Innovation DayPast\n\n\n\n\nJoin GFI President Bruce Friedrich at Tufts University’s 2026 Future Food Innovation Day\, where he’ll participate in a morning fireside chat with Tufts professor and cell ag pioneer Dr. David Kaplan. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nOn Thursday\, January 8\, 2026\, Tufts University will host its fourth annual Future Food Innovation Day—a day-long\, in-person gathering focused on the future of food and the convergence of agriculture and biotechnology. This high-level event will explore how food innovation can help advance national security\, strengthen supply chains\, and ensure a more abundant\, resilient future. \n\n\n\nGFI President Bruce Friedrich will be featured in a morning fireside chat alongside Dr. David Kaplan\, professor and director of Tufts’ Center for Cellular Agriculture. Together\, they’ll discuss the global momentum behind cultivated meat and other alternative proteins\, and how scientific innovation can play a catalytic role in food system transformation. \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent location\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGFI speaker\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBruce Friedrich\n\n\n\nPRESIDENT AND FOUNDER\, GFI \n\n\n\nBruce is a TED Fellow\, Y Combinator alum\, and popular speaker on food innovation. He has penned op-eds for the Wall Street Journal\, Foreign Policy\, Nature Food\, USA Today\, Los Angeles Times\, Wired\, CNN\, and many other publications. He has represented GFI on the TED Radio Hour\, New Yorker Radio Hour\, the Ezra Klein Show\, Making Sense (Sam Harris)\, and a variety of other podcasts and TV programs. Bruce’s 2019 TED talk has been viewed more than 2.4 million times and translated into 30 languages. \n\n\n\nBruce’s book Meat has earned rave reviews from CSIS director of global food and water security Caitlin Welsh (who penned the foreword); former UN World Food Program chief Ertharin Cousin; former UNFCCC head Christiana Figueres; SpaceX board member Steve Jurvetson; Harvard University’s Cass Sunstein\, Stanford University’s Charlotte Pera; and others. Says Welsh: “This book explains the imperative to transform our food systems\, and lays out a game plan to get us there…. Meat is as important as it is enjoyable.” \n\n\n\nBruce graduated magna cum laude from Georgetown Law and also holds degrees from Johns Hopkins University\, the London School of Economics\, and Grinnell College. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/2026-tufts-future-food-innovation-day/ LOCATION:Joyce Cummings Center\, 177 College Ave\, Medford\, Massachusetts\, United States CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/svg+xml:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/third-party-event-featured-image_UNIVERSAL.svg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251204T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251204T235959 DTSTAMP:20250905T152622Z CREATED:20250905T131119Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250905T152622Z UID:10000712-1764806400-1764892799@gfi.org SUMMARY:The 7th Industrializing Cultivated Meat & Seafood Summit DESCRIPTION:The 7th Industrializing Cultivated Meat & Seafood SummitPast\n\n\n\n\nGFI’s Elliot Swartz\, Ph.D.\, will share insights at the 7th Industrializing Cultivated Meat & Seafood Summit in Boston. Join Elliot and other experts as they discuss R&D innovations that can drive down costs\, improve scalability\, and accelerate progress toward bringing cultivated meat and seafood to market. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nThe 7th Industrializing Cultivated Meat & Seafood Summit is the premier gathering focused on the bioprocessing breakthroughs enabling cultivated meat and seafood to scale. This year’s summit will feature GFI Principal Scientist Elliot Swartz\, Ph.D.\, whose research spans bioprocess design and cost modeling for cultivated meat. \n\n\n\nElliot will speak on the panel “R&D Innovations that Enhance Performance and Reduce Cost\,” where participants will examine: \n\n\n\n\nThe quantities of individual amino acids needed for large-scale cultivated meat production.\n\n\n\nThe anticipated cost contributions of amino acids in the production process.\n\n\n\nStrategies to address supply constraints and explore alternative sourcing options\, such as protein hydrolysates.\n\n\n\n\nElliot’s work highlights how science can remove the bottlenecks to scaling cultivated meat. By advancing open-access research and collaboration across the field\, we can strengthen food security\, expand consumer choice\, and accelerate the shift toward a more resilient global food system. \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent location\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGFI speaker\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nElliot Swartz\, Ph.D.\n\n\n\nSENIOR PRINCIPAL SCIENTIST\, CULTIVATED MEAT \n\n\n\nElliot’s work at GFI focuses on analyzing the technical and economic bottlenecks facing the cultivated meat industry\, identifying opportunities to accelerate the industry\, and educating scientists\, the public\, and other industry stakeholders. For the past five years\, Elliot has worked on projects ranging from food safety and environmental impact to in-depth analysis of the cultivated meat value chain. Elliot holds a Ph.D. in neuroscience from the University of California\, Los Angeles (UCLA)\, where he worked with induced pluripotent stem cells to model neuromuscular disease. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/the-7th-industrializing-cultivated-meat-seafood-summit/ CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/COM24004_featured-events_science-academic-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251202T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251203T235959 DTSTAMP:20251111T202903Z CREATED:20251111T202823Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251111T202903Z UID:10000732-1764633600-1764806399@gfi.org SUMMARY:Plant Based World Expo DESCRIPTION:Plant Based World ExpoPast\n\n\n\n\nJoin GFI’s Corporate Engagement Manager Abby Sewell at Plant Based World Expo\, the only professional 100% plant-based trade event in the U.S. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nPlant Based World Expo brings together food service professionals\, retailers\, distributors\, buyers\, brokers\, and nonprofits to accelerate the growth of the plant-based sector. Designed to connect and empower businesses across the global supply network\, the expo showcases the latest innovations and strategies driving the future of food. Abby Sewell will share insights on how to grow the plant-based category in an evolving market landscape. \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent location\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGFI speaker\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAbby Sewell\n\n\n\nCORPORATE ENGAGEMENT MANAGER\, GFI \n\n\n\nAbby Sewell is the Corporate Engagement Manager at the Good Food Institute\, where she partners with food manufacturers and CPG companies to accelerate their transition toward alternative proteins. With 15 years of experience leading marketing and partnership strategy for global brands including General Mills\, Procter & Gamble\, Grey Goose\, and Toyota\, Abby brings a unique blend of strategic expertise and sustainability insight to her work. Before joining GFI\, she helped Fortune 500 companies deliver data-driven\, creative marketing solutions. Abby has shared insights on brand innovation and sustainable food systems at major industry events including Ad Week NYC and StreamCon. She holds a B.S. in Integrated Marketing Communications from Ithaca College and specialized training in Food Sustainability from NYU. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/plant-based-world-expo-2025/ LOCATION:Javits Center\, 429 11th Ave\, New York City\, 10001\, United States CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/svg+xml:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/third-party-event-featured-image_UNIVERSAL.svg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251121T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251123T235959 DTSTAMP:20251023T195148Z CREATED:20251023T195147Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251023T195148Z UID:10000726-1763683200-1763942399@gfi.org SUMMARY:Future of Food: Engaging Agriculture and Education in the Protein Transition DESCRIPTION:Future of Food: Engaging Agriculture and Education in the Protein TransitionPast\n\n\n\n\nGFI’s Jeremy Eltz and Janie Butler are heading to Tuskegee to lead a dynamic workshop at the Professional Agricultural Workers Conference. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nAt the 83rd Professional Agricultural Workers Conference (PAWC)\, GFI’s Jeremy Eltz\, PhD\, and Janie Butler\, MBA\, will host a 90-minute interactive session exploring how land-grant institutions\, HBCUs\, and rural communities can benefit from the protein transition. \n\n\n\nTitled “Future of Food: Engaging Agriculture and Education in the Protein Transition\,” this workshop will cover how alt proteins can drive economic resilience\, create new career pathways\, and integrate into agricultural education. \n\n\n\nThis session is part of GFI’s broader commitment to supporting agricultural communities as active leaders in shaping a better food future. \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent location\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGFI speakers\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJanie Butler\n\n\n\nEDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT SPECIALISTTHE GOOD FOOD INSTITUTE \n\n\n\nJanie Butler develops dynamic educational programs and workforce solutions to cultivate talent in the growing alternative protein sector. Janie Butler joined GFI after working with the Colorado BioScience Institute and Beyond Benign: An Institute for Green Chemistry Education. In these roles\, she cultivated workforce development and educational initiatives by designing impactful programs\, leading curriculum development\, and fostering partnerships between industry and academia. Janie holds a Bachelor of Science degree in biochemistry with a specialization in molecular biology and a minor in environmental and sustainable studies from Loyola University of Maryland\, equipping her with the expertise to drive sustainable practices in education and workforce training. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJeremy Eltz\, Ph.D.\n\n\n\nEDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT MANAGERTHE GOOD FOOD INSTITUTE \n\n\n\nJeremy Eltz will work to develop and support the education and workforce pipeline for the alternative protein industry. Prior to joining GFI\, Jeremy Eltz served as the Director of Rural Education at the Center of Excellence in Leadership of Learning at the University of Indianapolis. Jeremy began his career as a research scientist and middle school teacher\, before joining the Indiana Department of Education in 2012. During his time at the IDOE\, Jeremy created and implemented the state’s first STEM plan—which resulted in the adoption of new STEM programs and pathways in K-12 education across the state. Jeremy has a bachelor’s in biology from Indiana University Bloomington\, a master’s degree in teaching from Marian University\, a PhD in educational leadership from Indiana State\, and a school superintendent’s license. He currently resides in Carmel\, Indiana\, with his wife\, Missy\, and two daughters\, Macy and Mallory. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/future-of-food-engaging-agriculture-and-education-in-the-protein-transition/ LOCATION:Tuskegee University\, 1200 W Montgomery Rd\, Tuskegee\, Alabama\, 36088 CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/svg+xml:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/third-party-event-featured-image_UNIVERSAL.svg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251105T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251106T235959 DTSTAMP:20251027T185345Z CREATED:20251027T185343Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251027T185345Z UID:10000727-1762300800-1762473599@gfi.org SUMMARY:California Circular Bioeconomy Summit (BioCirCA) DESCRIPTION:California Circular Bioeconomy Summit (BioCirCA)Past\n\n\n\n\nJoin GFI’s Jeremy Eltz at BioCirCA for forward-looking conversations on transforming waste into opportunity—and unlocking the power of bio-based innovation. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nThe California Circular Bioeconomy Summit—BioCirCA—is BEAM Circular’s annual gathering of changemakers committed to building a climate-smart\, community-focused economy. GFI’s Jeremy Eltz will be among the featured speakers at this year’s summit\, contributing to the dynamic discussions that explore how bio-based manufacturing and new economic models can turn waste into revenue\, create quality jobs\, and advance environmental resilience. \n\n\n\nBioCirCA convenes industry leaders\, educators\, researchers\, policymakers\, students\, and community partners from across sectors. It’s a unique opportunity to engage with the collaborative energy powering California’s circular bioeconomy—and to discover real-world strategies for scaling sustainable innovation. \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent location\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGFI speaker\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJeremy Eltz\, Ph.D.\n\n\n\nEDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT MANAGER \n\n\n\nJeremy Eltz will work to develop and support the education and workforce pipeline for the alternative protein industry. Prior to joining GFI\, Jeremy Eltz served as the Director of Rural Education at the Center of Excellence in Leadership of Learning at the University of Indianapolis. Jeremy began his career as a research scientist and middle school teacher\, before joining the Indiana Department of Education in 2012. During his time at the IDOE\, Jeremy created and implemented the state’s first STEM plan—which resulted in the adoption of new STEM programs and pathways in K-12 education across the state. Jeremy has a bachelor’s in biology from Indiana University Bloomington\, a master’s degree in teaching from Marian University\, a PhD in educational leadership from Indiana State\, and a school superintendent’s license. He currently resides in Carmel\, Indiana\, with his wife\, Missy\, and two daughters\, Macy and Mallory. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/california-circular-bioeconomy-summit-biocirca/ LOCATION:California State University\, Stanislaus\, 1 University Cir\, Turlock\, California\, 95382 CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/svg+xml:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/third-party-event-featured-image_UNIVERSAL.svg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251029T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251101T235959 DTSTAMP:20250904T192012Z CREATED:20250904T191922Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250904T192012Z UID:10000711-1761696000-1762041599@gfi.org SUMMARY:National FFA Convention & Expo DESCRIPTION:National FFA Convention & ExpoPast\n\n\n\n\nGFI’s workforce development lead\, Dr. Jeremy Eltz\, is headed to FFA! Join us in Indianapolis to explore how the next generation of ag leaders can shape the future of food. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nThe National FFA Convention & Expo is all about growing the next generation of leaders—and so is GFI. That’s why Jeremy Eltz\, Ph.D.\, GFI’s Education and Workforce Development Manager\, will be on-site to meet students\, teachers\, and ag educators all week long. A former ag science teacher and state-level CTE leader\, Jeremy’s work focuses on connecting agricultural education to the fast-growing field of sustainable protein innovation. \n\n\n\nAlongside GFI’s Liz Fathman and Sheila Voss\, Jeremy will be at the GFI table ready to: \n\n\n\n\n🔬 Explore where your career could go in food\, farming\, and sustainability\n\n\n\n💬 Chat about your story and your connection to agriculture and food\n\n\n\n🎡 Invite you to spin the wheel and grab some swag\n\n\n\n\nThis event is part of GFI’s mission to show how alternative proteins are reshaping the future of food—and to explore how young agriculture professionals can lead the way in feeding more people with fewer resources. Whether you’re a student\, teacher\, or advisor\, we’d love to meet you and hear how you’re helping shape what comes next in agriculture. \n\n\n\nAnd the conversation doesn’t stop in Indy: This fall\, GFI and Pulse Canada are launching a webinar series featuring farmers from across the U.S. and Canada. These virtual sessions will dive into new possibilities at the intersection of pulses\, protein\, and sustainable ag. Stay tuned! \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent location\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGFI speaker\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJeremy Eltz\, Ph.D.\n\n\n\nEDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT MANAGER \n\n\n\nPrior to joining GFI\, Jeremy Eltz served as the Director of Rural Education at the Center of Excellence in Leadership of Learning at the University of Indianapolis. Jeremy began his career as a research scientist and middle school teacher\, before joining the Indiana Department of Education in 2012. During his time at the IDOE\, Jeremy created and implemented the state’s first STEM plan—which resulted in the adoption of new STEM programs and pathways in K-12 education across the state. Jeremy has a bachelor’s in biology from Indiana University Bloomington\, a master’s degree in teaching from Marian University\, a PhD in educational leadership from Indiana State\, and a school superintendent’s license. He currently resides in Carmel\, Indiana\, with his wife\, Missy\, and two daughters\, Macy and Mallory. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/national-ffa-convention-expo/ LOCATION:Indiana Convention Center\, 100 South Capitol Avenue\, Indianapolis\, Indiana\, 46225 CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/svg+xml:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/third-party-event-featured-image_UNIVERSAL.svg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251021T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251023T235959 DTSTAMP:20250903T124828Z CREATED:20250826T181544Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250903T124828Z UID:10000709-1761004800-1761263999@gfi.org SUMMARY:Bridge2Food North American Symposium – APP Regional Student Symposium (Alt Protein Project) DESCRIPTION:Bridge2Food North American Symposium – APP Regional Student Symposium (Alt Protein Project)Past\n\n\n\n\nAfter a successful student-led showcase in Brazil earlier this year\, the Alt Protein Project is headed to the U.S.! Meet some of our incredible student leaders at the Bridge2Food North American Symposium\, where they’ll bring next-gen science\, bold ideas\, and community spirit to the table. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nJoin the Alt Protein Project at the Bridge2Food North American Symposium in Minneapolis from October 21–23. GFI’s Alt Protein Project will host an exhibit booth highlighting student research\, collaborations\, and community impact stories from active APP groups across the region. \n\n\n\nAttendees can: \n\n\n\n\nMeet APP student leaders and learn about their academic and entrepreneurial initiatives.\n\n\n\nDiscover how student-led alt protein hubs are driving awareness and innovation across university campuses.\n\n\n\nExplore ways to collaborate with the next generation of scientists\, advocates\, and innovators.\n\n\n\n\nWhether you’re coming from industry\, academia\, or the broader food and climate space\, we’d love to connect. Booth number coming soon! \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent location\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/bridge2food-north-american-symposium-app-regional-student-symposium-alt-protein-project/ CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/COM24004_featured-events_science-academic-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251016T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251017T235959 DTSTAMP:20250930T154701Z CREATED:20250930T154700Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250930T154701Z UID:10000716-1760572800-1760745599@gfi.org SUMMARY:NCSU Bezos Center Summit DESCRIPTION:NCSU Bezos Center SummitPast\n\n\n\n\nGFI’s Maddie Cohen\, associate director of regulatory affairs\, will join a panel at the Bezos Center for Sustainable Protein’s inaugural summit\, contributing to an energizing discussion on the current state of cultivated meat regulation and policy. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nThe Bezos Center for Sustainable Protein at NC State University is hosting its inaugural summit on October 16–17\, 2025\, bringing together the brightest minds in science\, policy\, and industry to advance the future of sustainable protein. \n\n\n\nThis two-day event will feature exciting keynote talks\, interactive panels\, and breakout sessions highlighting breakthroughs in biomanufacturing\, alternative proteins\, and sustainable food systems. \n\n\n\nGFI’s Maddie Cohen\, J.D.\, associate director of regulatory affairs\, will join the Policy & Regulations panel alongside Deepti Kulkarni (Covington & Burling) and Jo Anne Shatkin (Vireo Advisors)\, with moderation by Norbert Wilson (Duke University). Together\, they will explore the current state of cultivated meat regulation\, highlight both challenges and opportunities\, and discuss how thoughtful\, science-based policy can guide this emerging sector toward a more sustainable future. \n\n\n\nIt’s a conversation designed to be both insightful and practical—an invitation to see how today’s regulatory choices can shape tomorrow’s food system. \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent location\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGFI speaker\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMadeline Cohen\, J.D.\n\n\n\nASSOCIATE DIRECTOR\, REGULATORY AFFAIRS \n\n\n\nMadeline Cohen leads GFI’s regulatory team in implementing regulatory\, policy\, and litigation strategies to support a clear path to market and a level playing field for alternative proteins. Prior to joining GFI\, Madeline worked on a variety of litigation and compliance matters as an associate at Wiley Rein LLP. She also previously served as a law clerk to the Honorable Robert. C. Chambers\, U.S. District Court Judge. Madeline holds a J.D. from The George Washington University Law School and a B.A. from American University. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/ncsu-bezos-center-summit/ LOCATION:North Carolina State University\, Raleigh\, North Carolina\, 27695 CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/COM24004_featured-events_policy-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251014T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251015T235959 DTSTAMP:20250811T190419Z CREATED:20250811T184918Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250811T190419Z UID:10000707-1760400000-1760572799@gfi.org SUMMARY:Reuters Events Transform Food & Agriculture USA 2025 DESCRIPTION:Reuters Events Transform Food & Agriculture USA 2025Past\n\n\n\n\nGFI’s Senior Vice President of Corporate Engagement\, Caroline Bushnell\, will take the mainstage at Transform Food & Agriculture USA to lead a conversation on how protein diversification is driving climate action\, meeting shifting consumer tastes\, and building more resilient supply chains. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nTransform Food & Agriculture USA convenes 200 decision-makers from across the agri-food value chain to tackle the urgent challenges facing global food systems\, from climate risk and labor shortages to market volatility and rising input costs. The event focuses on collaborative\, climate-smart solutions that can deliver impact at scale. \n\n\n\nGFI’s Caroline Bushnell will lead a dynamic discussion on how protein diversification can advance sustainability goals\, boost resilience\, and offer consumers more—and better—choices. Panelists will share practical strategies for integrating plant-based\, cultivated\, and fermentation-derived proteins into core business plans\, aligning ESG targets\, and unlocking the capital and market demand needed to accelerate a nature- and climate-positive food future. \n\n\n\nJoin us in Minneapolis to connect with industry leaders\, explore cutting-edge solutions\, and shape the resilient\, sustainable food system we need. \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent location\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGFI speaker\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCaroline Bushnell\n\n\n\nSENIOR VICE PRESIDENT\, CORPORATE ENGAGEMENT \n\n\n\nCaroline leads GFI’s corporate engagement team in their work with companies and investors across the globe to catalyze innovation and investment in alternative proteins. Prior to joining GFI\, Caroline served as the Director of Marketing for Celestial Seasonings at The Hain Celestial Group. She has also worked at Moet Hennessy and Janus Capital Group. With over 15 years of experience in CPG brand management\, finance\, and consulting\, she is deeply familiar with the food industry. Caroline also served as a governor-appointed member of the Colorado Food Systems Advisory Council. She is a graduate of the Leeds School of Business at the University of Colorado at Boulder. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/reuters-events-transform-food-agriculture-usa-2025/ LOCATION:Minneapolis\, MN\, Minneapolis\, Minnesota\, United States CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/svg+xml:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/third-party-event-featured-image_UNIVERSAL.svg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250922T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250929T235959 DTSTAMP:20250903T124257Z CREATED:20250725T130414Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250903T124257Z UID:10000706-1758499200-1759190399@gfi.org SUMMARY:GFI at Climate Week NYC DESCRIPTION:GFI at Climate Week NYCPast\n\n\n\n\nGFI is heading to Climate Week NYC! Join us as we spotlight how alternative proteins can help feed a growing population while protecting our planet. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nAs the global climate community gathers in New York this September\, GFI will be on the ground at Climate Week NYC 2025—connecting with partners\, sharing insights\, and elevating the role of food system innovation in achieving climate goals. \n\n\n\nThroughout the week\, we’ll be participating in side events\, panel discussions\, and high-impact conversations centered around the intersection of food and climate. Our focus? Advancing alternative proteins as a climate solution that scales. \n\n\n\nStay tuned for updates on where we’ll be and how to connect with us during the week. We’re excited to be part of this critical moment for climate action—and to highlight how food system solutions can help drive meaningful change. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/gfi-at-climate-week-nyc/ CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/COM24004_featured-events_climate-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250915T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250916T235959 DTSTAMP:20250630T163336Z CREATED:20250630T163335Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250630T163336Z UID:10000700-1757894400-1758067199@gfi.org SUMMARY:NAPIC Inaugural Conference 2025 DESCRIPTION:NAPIC Inaugural Conference 2025Past\n\n\n\n\nThe NAPIC Inaugural Conference aims to convene a diverse group of stakeholders—including industry leaders\, innovators\, researchers\, investors\, and policymakers—to explore and advance the latest developments in alternative protein innovation. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nThis event serves as a platform to foster collaboration\, address industry challenges\, and drive the transition toward sustainable\, nutritious\, and accessible protein sources. By bringing together key players from various sectors\, the conference seeks to accelerate the discovery\, innovation\, and commercialization of alternative protein technologies\, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and secure global food system. \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent location\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGFI speaker\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBruce Friedrich\n\n\n\nPRESIDENT AND FOUNDER\, GFI \n\n\n\nBruce oversees GFI’s global strategy\, working with and across all of GFI’s international teams (Asia Pacific\, Brazil\, Europe\, India\, Israel\, and United States) to ensure that GFI is maximally effective at implementing programs that deliver mission-focused results. Bruce is a TED Fellow\, Y Combinator alum\, 2021 “American Food Hero” (EatingWell Magazine)\, and popular speaker on food innovation. He has penned op-eds for the Wall Street Journal\, Foreign Policy\, CNN\, Nature Food\, Los Angeles Times\, Wired\, and many other publications. He has represented GFI on the TED Radio Hour\, New Yorker Radio Hour\, Ezra Klein Show\, Making Sense (Sam Harris)\, ReCode Decode\, and other programs and podcasts. Bruce’s 2019 TED talk has been viewed 2.4 million times and translated into 30 languages. He graduated magna cum laude from Georgetown Law and also holds degrees from Johns Hopkins University and the London School of Economics. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/napic-inaugural-conference-2025/ LOCATION:The Diamond\, 32 Leavygreave Rd\, Sheffield\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/svg+xml:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/third-party-event-featured-image_UNIVERSAL.svg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250909T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250912T235959 DTSTAMP:20250903T124403Z CREATED:20250903T123948Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250903T124403Z UID:10000710-1757376000-1757721599@gfi.org SUMMARY:Future Farmers of America Next Gen Conference DESCRIPTION:Future Farmers of America Next Gen ConferencePast\n\n\n\n\nGFI’s Jeremy Eltz is inspiring the next generation of agricultural leaders—connecting students with the science\, skills\, and career paths shaping the future of food. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nThis fall\, GFI is headed to Fargo to engage directly with future food system leaders. At the FFA Next Generation: Emerging Technology Conference (Sept. 9–12 at Grand Farm in Fargo\, North Dakota)\, Jeremy Eltz\, Ph.D.\, GFI’s Education and Workforce Development Manager\, will lead hands-on programming for high school sophomores\, juniors\, and seniors—students exploring career paths in food\, ag\, and STEM. \n\n\n\nSet at Grand Farm\, a hub of agricultural innovation\, the conference offers students a window into cutting-edge technologies and the people driving them. Through interactive workshops and direct engagement\, Jeremy will introduce alternative proteins as a high-impact\, mission-aligned field where science and sustainability meet. \n\n\n\nOur presence at this event advances GFI’s goal of ensuring the next generation has access to the tools\, knowledge\, and inspiration needed to thrive in a transforming food system. Together with FFA and Grand Farm\, we’re helping students imagine—and lead—what comes next. \n\n\n\nAnd this is just the beginning. GFI will continue our engagement with FFA at the National FFA Convention later in October. Stay tuned—and check out our events webpage for more details on how we’re partnering with the next generation of agricultural leaders. \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent location\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGFI speaker\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJeremy Eltz\, Ph.D.\n\n\n\nEDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT MANAGER \n\n\n\nPrior to joining GFI\, Jeremy Eltz served as the Director of Rural Education at the Center of Excellence in Leadership of Learning at the University of Indianapolis. Jeremy began his career as a research scientist and middle school teacher\, before joining the Indiana Department of Education in 2012. During his time at the IDOE\, Jeremy created and implemented the state’s first STEM plan—which resulted in the adoption of new STEM programs and pathways in K-12 education across the state. Jeremy has a bachelor’s in biology from Indiana University Bloomington\, a master’s degree in teaching from Marian University\, a PhD in educational leadership from Indiana State\, and a school superintendent’s license. He currently resides in Carmel\, Indiana\, with his wife\, Missy\, and two daughters\, Macy and Mallory. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/future-farmers-of-america-next-gen-conference/ LOCATION:Grand Farm\, 118 Broadway N\, Fargo\, North Dakota\, 58102\, United States CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/COM24004_featured-events_science-academic-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250908T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250909T235959 DTSTAMP:20250903T124717Z CREATED:20250724T183217Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250903T124717Z UID:10000705-1757289600-1757462399@gfi.org SUMMARY:iCAMP 25: Cultivated Meat & Alternative Protein Summit DESCRIPTION:iCAMP 25: Cultivated Meat & Alternative Protein SummitPast\n\n\n\n\nDon’t miss Bruce Friedrich\, GFI’s president and founder\, as he joins iCAMP 25 to discuss the intersection of innovation\, investment\, and policy in accelerating sustainable protein solutions. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nAs global demand for meat continues to rise\, conventional production methods are hitting ecological and ethical limits. iCAMP 25 brings together more than 300 scientists\, entrepreneurs\, investors\, and policymakers to address one of the most pressing questions of our time: How can we sustainably and equitably scale protein production for a growing world? \n\n\n\nHosted by the Integrative Center for Alternative Meat & Protein (iCAMP)\, this year’s summit focuses on transforming food systems and building the bioeconomy through research\, innovation\, and policy. \n\n\n\nA highlight of the program is a fireside chat with Bruce Friedrich\, president and founder of The Good Food Institute\, in conversation with Professor David Block\, iCAMP Center Director. Bruce will also moderate a high-impact panel on biomanufacturing scale-up—diving into the infrastructure\, partnerships\, and investments needed to bring alternative proteins to scale and into the mainstream. \n\n\n\nSummit sessions will cover: \n\n\n\n\nU.S. and global policy developments shaping the alternative protein landscape\n\n\n\nTrends in commercialization\, investment\, and industry strategy\n\n\n\nScientific advances across plant-based\, cultivated\, and fermentation-derived platforms\n\n\n\nBiomanufacturing infrastructure\, scale-up bottlenecks\, and tech transfer\n\n\n\nRegulatory frameworks\, food safety\, and consumer trust\n\n\n\n\nParticipants will also engage in: \n\n\n\n\nRoundtable discussions with leaders from academia\, industry\, and government\n\n\n\nStudent flash talks and a poster showcase highlighting emerging talent\n\n\n\nEvening networking receptions and a sponsor showcase featuring the latest breakthroughs\n\n\n\n\nWhether you’re advancing scientific research\, scaling a food company\, shaping public policy\, or exploring your role in the future of food\, iCAMP 25 offers a space to connect\, co-create\, and help drive meaningful change. \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent location\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGFI speaker\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBruce Friedrich\n\n\n\nPRESIDENT AND FOUNDER\, GFI \n\n\n\nBruce oversees GFI’s global strategy\, working with and across all of GFI’s international teams (Asia Pacific\, Brazil\, Europe\, India\, Israel\, and United States) to ensure that GFI is maximally effective at implementing programs that deliver mission-focused results. Bruce is a TED Fellow\, Y Combinator alum\, 2021 “American Food Hero” (EatingWell Magazine)\, and popular speaker on food innovation. He has penned op-eds for the Wall Street Journal\, Foreign Policy\, CNN\, Nature Food\, Los Angeles Times\, Wired\, and many other publications. He has represented GFI on the TED Radio Hour\, New Yorker Radio Hour\, Ezra Klein Show\, Making Sense (Sam Harris)\, ReCode Decode\, and other programs and podcasts. Bruce’s 2019 TED talk has been viewed 2.4 million times and translated into 30 languages. He graduated magna cum laude from Georgetown Law and also holds degrees from Johns Hopkins University and the London School of Economics. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/icamp-25-cultivated-meat-alternative-protein-summit/ LOCATION:UC Davis Conference Center\, 550 Alumni Ln\, Davis\, California\, 95616 CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/svg+xml:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/third-party-event-featured-image_UNIVERSAL.svg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250602T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250603T235959 DTSTAMP:20250417T124613Z CREATED:20250324T155805Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250417T124613Z UID:10000679-1748822400-1748995199@gfi.org SUMMARY:Future Food-Tech Chicago – Sustainable Proteins & Ingredients DESCRIPTION:Future Food-Tech Chicago – Sustainable Proteins & IngredientsPast\n\n\n\n\nFuture Food-Tech Chicago brings together 400+ global leaders from across the food and agriculture sector to tackle the most pressing challenges in sustainable proteins and ingredients. From bridging supply chain gaps to scaling climate-smart alternatives\, this is where the future takes shape. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nThe agenda is packed with immersive workshops\, live product tastings\, and interactive discussions on the latest in alternative ingredients—including next-gen dairy\, fats\, oils\, coffee\, and cocoa. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore insights from industry pioneers and participate in dynamic\, solutions-focused sessions designed to drive real impact. \n\n\n\nGFI’s Amanda Hildebrand\, Ph.D.\, Vice President of Science and Technology\, will moderate the panel Scaling Biomanufacturing: Optimizing Facilities and Bioprocess Design on Monday at 4:05 pm\, addressing: \n\n\n\n\nStrategies for managing capital-intensive scale-up infrastructure\n\n\n\nThe role of CDMOs and shared facilities in helping companies move from lab to pilot to commercial production\n\n\n\nInnovations reducing the cost of upstream and downstream bioprocesses\n\n\n\nRegulatory considerations for bioprocess design across jurisdictions\n\n\n\n\nJody Kirchner\, Associate Director of Market Insights\, will also be leading a session titled Understanding the Emerging Plant-Based Meat Consumer: GFI’s Consumer Segmentation on Tuesday\, June 3rd at 11:30 a.m. This roundtable will delve into our latest consumer segmentation research to uncover who is buying plant-based meat—and what’s driving their choices. Join peers from across the alternative protein ecosystem to explore how these insights can shape product innovation\, messaging\, and strategies to accelerate mainstream adoption. \n\n\n\nJoin us in Chicago to connect with industry leaders\, explore cutting-edge solutions\, and shape the future of sustainable proteins. \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent location\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMeet the speakers\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAmanda Hildebrand\, Ph.D.\n\n\n\nVICE PRESIDENT\, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY\, GFI \n\n\n\nAmanda Hildebrand leads GFI’s Science and Technology department\, building a strategic roadmap to accelerate alternative protein research and empower scientists to bring breakthroughs to market. She has over 13 years of experience in bioprocess development and commercialization\, with expertise in fermentation\, kinetic modeling\, and scaling sustainable food systems. \n\n\n\nBefore joining GFI\, Amanda led innovation and commercialization projects across startups and Fortune 500 companies\, working across multiple fermentation platforms and industries. She holds a Ph.D. in biological systems engineering from the University of California\, Davis\, and a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from the University of California\, Santa Barbara. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJody Kirchner\n\n\n\nASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF MARKET INSIGHTS\, GFI \n\n\n\nJody Kirchner leads GFI’s market and consumer insights team\, which delivers data-driven analysis and insights to educate industry leaders and key stakeholders on the market opportunities around plant-based and other alternative proteins. Prior to joining GFI\, Jody worked as a growth strategy consultant for over 15 years\, advising companies from startups to Fortune 100 and investors on how to drive profitable growth. Her work focused heavily on the food/CPG industry\, while also touching a diverse range of other sectors. Jody holds an MBA from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business\, an MS in Aeronautics and Astronautics from MIT\, and a BS in Mechanical Engineering from The University of British Columbia. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/future-food-tech-chicago-sustainable-proteins-and-ingredients/ LOCATION:Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel\, 1 West Upper Wacker Drive\, Chicago\, Illinois\, 60601 CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/svg+xml:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/third-party-event-featured-image_UNIVERSAL.svg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250528T203000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250528T223000 DTSTAMP:20250502T121950Z CREATED:20250502T121836Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250502T121950Z UID:10000689-1748464200-1748471400@gfi.org SUMMARY:The Future of Alternative Proteins Panel DESCRIPTION:The Future of Alternative Proteins PanelPast\n\n\n\n\nJoin Claire Bomkamp\, GFI’s Senior Scientist for Cultivated Meat and Seafood\, for The Future of Alternative Proteins panel. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nExplore the future of alternative proteins with Claire Bomkamp\, Senior Scientist for Cultivated Meat and Seafood at the Good Food Institute (GFI). As climate change\, resource limitations\, and ethical concerns place increasing pressure on conventional animal agriculture\, the world urgently needs sustainable protein solutions. \n\n\n\nThis panel will bring together leading scientists\, entrepreneurs\, and industry experts to discuss how innovations like cultivated meat\, precision fermentation\, and next-generation plant-based products are shaping a more sustainable\, secure\, and just food system. \n\n\n\nTogether\, we’ll dive into critical questions around scientific breakthroughs\, scale-up challenges\, consumer adoption\, and regulatory progress — and consider what it will take to make alternative proteins no longer alternative\, but the default choice. \n\n\n\nWhether you’re an entrepreneur\, policymaker\, investor\, researcher\, or future-focused food advocate\, this conversation will offer insights into the technologies and collaborations moving the future of food forward. \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent location\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGFI speaker\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nClaire Bomkamp\, Ph.D.\n\n\n\nSENIOR LEAD SCIENTIST\, CULTIVATED MEAT & SEAFOOD \n\n\n\nClaire serves as Senior Lead Scientist\, Cultivated Meat & Seafood and is a member of GFI’s Sustainable Seafood Initiative. She focuses on analyzing the technical landscape of the cultivated meat and seafood industry\, identifying bottlenecks\, and engaging researchers in order to move cultivated meat and seafood technology forward. She holds a PhD in neuroscience from the University of British Columbia and a bachelors in behavioral neuroscience from Western Washington University. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/the-future-of-alternative-proteins-panel/ LOCATION:9Zero Climate Innovation Hub\, 1215 4th Ave\, Seattle\, Washington\, 98101 CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/COM24004_featured-events_science-academic-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250428T104500 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250428T121500 DTSTAMP:20250416T185805Z CREATED:20250416T185803Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250416T185805Z UID:10000686-1745837100-1745842500@gfi.org SUMMARY:DC Climate Week: Food+Climate – Reducing Food System Emissions in the Current Climate DESCRIPTION:DC Climate Week: Food+Climate – Reducing Food System Emissions in the Current ClimatePast\n\n\n\n\n​Food is one of the most overlooked yet powerful climate solutions. What we eat—and how we dispose of it—drives nearly one-third of global emissions\, shapes biodiversity\, and impacts air and water quality. But the food system also holds immense potential for change. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nAt this DC Climate Week panel\, environmental experts\, advocates\, and food industry leaders will explore the latest strategies to reduce emissions from food production and consumption. From shifting institutional food purchasing to scaling alternative proteins and tackling food waste\, the discussion will highlight bold\, evidence-based solutions that are gaining traction in today’s political and economic climate. \n\n\n\nGFI’s Maille O’Donnell will join the panel to spotlight alternative proteins as a high-impact climate solution and share insights on effective messaging and public investment strategies that can drive real progress. This is a key moment to bring food system transformation to the center of climate conversations—and to lead with ideas that meet the moment. \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent location\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMeet the speaker\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMaille O’Donnell\n\n\n\nSENIOR POLICY SPECIALIST\, PUBLIC INVESTMENT AND INDUSTRY \n\n\n\nMaille works to advance government support for alternative proteins by analyzing the policy landscape\, engaging with stakeholders\, and advocating for public funding and incentives to accelerate the industry. Prior to joining GFI\, Maille worked on sustainable food systems at the World Resources Institute and studied food policy at the University of Cambridge. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/dc-climate-week-food-and-climate-reducing-food-system-emissions-in-the-current-climate/ LOCATION:Boundary Stone Partners Office\, 999 E Street NW\, Washington\, DC CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/svg+xml:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/third-party-event-featured-image_UNIVERSAL.svg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250427T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250430T235959 DTSTAMP:20250310T163008Z CREATED:20250310T163007Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250310T163008Z UID:10000670-1745712000-1746057599@gfi.org SUMMARY:2025 AOCS Meeting (American Oil Chemists' Society) DESCRIPTION:2025 AOCS Meeting (American Oil Chemists’ Society)Past\n\n\n\n\nJoin GFI experts at the AOCS Meeting to explore research on land use efficiency and the environmental impact of plant-based meats. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nThe annual AOCS Meeting brings together experts from diverse disciplines to explore the latest science and technology shaping the fats\, oils\, proteins\, surfactants\, and related industries. With 80+ sessions across 10 interest areas\, plus special presentations on trending industry topics\, networking events\, and receptions\, the conference offers a rich platform for learning and collaboration. \n\n\n\nWe’re excited to share that two members of GFI’s Science & Technology team will be presenting new research at the meeting. Lead scientist Priera Panescu Scott\, Ph.D.\, will present a GFI analysis describing the land use efficiency and restoration opportunities of diversifying American protein sources with alternative proteins—key to advancing U.S. climate and biodiversity goals. Senior lead scientist Nikhita Mansukhani Kogar\, Ph.D.\, will share insights from a recent life cycle assessment examining the environmental impact of plant-based meats made with different ingredients and methods. \n\n\n\nJoin Priera and Nikhita for these insightful presentations and connect with leaders driving innovation in sustainable protein! \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent location\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMeet the speakers\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNikhita Mansukhani Kogar\, Ph.D\n\n\n\nNikhita is focused on the technical landscape of plant-based proteins and how to expand their impact and adoption. Prior to joining GFI\, Nikhita worked in food and biotech product development\, most recently as an Innovation Scientist at Beyond Meat. While at Beyond\, she led flagship product development projects from the fundamental research stage through formulation and scale-up. She holds a bachelor’s degree in physics from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a Ph.D. in materials science and engineering from Northwestern University. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPriera Panescu Scott\, Ph.D.\n\n\n\nPriera’s role at GFI focuses on accelerating the plant-based meat industry through analyzing their plant-based protein landscape\, identifying emerging technological solutions and bottlenecks\, and communicating with other scientists about advancing alternative protein research. Priera has bachelor’s degrees in chemistry and math from the University of California\, Santa Cruz as well as a master’s and a doctorate in organic chemistry from the University of California\, Los Angeles. Prior to joining GFI\, Priera spent almost a decade focusing on polymer\, formulation\, and materials chemistry research. Particularly\, she honed these skills for food security applications by creating novel sustainable agriculture materials and compounds. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/2025-aocs-meeting-american-oil-chemists-society/ LOCATION:Oregon Convention Center\, 777 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd\, Portland\, Oregon\, 97232\, United States CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/svg+xml:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/third-party-event-featured-image_UNIVERSAL.svg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250424T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250424T173000 DTSTAMP:20250403T150038Z CREATED:20250324T155623Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250403T150038Z UID:10000678-1745485200-1745515800@gfi.org SUMMARY:Re-Thinking Food: From Plate to Planet DESCRIPTION:Re-Thinking Food: From Plate to PlanetPast\n\n\n\n\nJoin GFI’s Bianca Datta in attending Re-Thinking Food: From Plate to Planet! This experience will bring together leading researchers\, policymakers\, and industry experts to explore the latest science and innovations in sustainable food. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nHosted by Stanford Bio-X\, Re-Thinking Food: From Plate to Planet is a full-day symposium focused on the intersection of food\, health\, and sustainability. With topics spanning planetary health\, human nutrition\, and cutting-edge research in food systems\, the event will feature renowned speakers\, including Harold McGee\, Christopher Gardner\, and faculty from UC Davis\, Harvard\, and more. \n\n\n\nThe program includes expert presentations\, student research showcases\, and discussions on the role of science and policy in shaping the future of food. Whether you’re a student\, researcher\, or professional in the field\, this is an opportunity to engage with thought leaders and explore how food innovation can create a more sustainable world. \n\n\n\nGFI’s Bianca Datta will be in attendance—stop by to connect and discuss how policy\, science\, and innovation can drive change in the food system. \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent location\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/re-thinking-food-from-plate-to-planet/ LOCATION:James H. Clark Center Auditorium\, 318 Campus Drive Stanford\, California\, 94305\, United States CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/COM24004_featured-events_knowledge-partner-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250423T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250426T235959 DTSTAMP:20250303T123215Z CREATED:20250303T123213Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250303T123215Z UID:10000667-1745366400-1745711999@gfi.org SUMMARY:Society of Environmental Journalists Annual Conference 2025 DESCRIPTION:Society of Environmental Journalists Annual Conference 2025Past\n\n\n\n\nJoin GFI at this Southwest-based conference that explores the increasingly important role of environmental journalists! We will be exhibiting at the event to educate attendees about the power and potential of alternative proteins. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nJoin this event to explore the Southwest’s compelling environmental stories in the field\, to establish or expand your professional network and tap into SEJ’s unparalleled wealth of knowledge\, experts and resources. Whether your focus is local impact or global effects\, SEJ’s programs and people will inspire and equip you to provide your communities with the vital information and context needed to survive and even thrive in a rapidly changing and warming world. \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent location\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/society-of-environmental-journalists-annual-conference-2025/ LOCATION:Omni Tempe Hotel at ASU\, 7 E University Dr.\, Tempe\, Arizona\, 85281 CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/svg+xml:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/third-party-event-featured-image_UNIVERSAL.svg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250419T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250427T235959 DTSTAMP:20250417T124102Z CREATED:20250317T195035Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250417T124102Z UID:10000675-1745020800-1745798399@gfi.org SUMMARY:San Francisco Climate Week 2025 DESCRIPTION:San Francisco Climate Week 2025Past\n\n\n\n\nThe future of food is a key part of the future of climate action. San Francisco Climate Week brings together innovators\, policymakers\, and business leaders to explore the latest solutions in sustainability. This weeklong series of events highlights breakthroughs in climate technology\, policy\, and corporate responsibility—including the role of food in reducing emissions. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nSan Francisco Climate Week is a premier convening of climate leaders\, featuring discussions on policy innovation\, corporate sustainability\, and climate technology. This year’s program will explore food’s critical role in addressing the climate crisis\, with insights from experts across industries. \n\n\n\nThe panel The Low-Carbon Kitchen: Reducing Scope 3 Emissions Through Corporate Foodservice will focus on how foodservice operators\, sustainability teams\, and corporate leaders can leverage plant-forward strategies to cut emissions\, meet sustainability goals\, and align with evolving consumer preferences. \n\n\n\nPanelists will discuss: \n\n\n\n\nScience-backed strategies for increasing adoption of plant-based options in foodservice\n\n\n\nResearch on plant-based proteins and their life cycle assessment ratings\n\n\n\nLessons from corporate foodservice pilots that successfully reduced emissions through menu shifts\n\n\n\nBest practices for stakeholder engagement and impact measurement\n\n\n\n\nThe first 30 minutes will be reserved for networking\, and a selection of drinks will be available for purchase onsite. \n\n\n\nGFI’s Shayna Fertig will be speaking on a panel titled Beyond Siloes: Climate Mitigation and Adaptation through Food & Ag on Monday\, April 21. This panel will discuss how today’s food and ag companies are solving interconnected climate challenges while helping us adapt for the future climate and humanity’s nutritional needs. Register here. \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent location\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGFI speaker\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nShayna Fertig\n\n\n\nSENIOR ADVISOR TO THE PRESIDENT\, GFI \n\n\n\nShayna works closely with GFI’s president to build and maintain high level relationships across influencers in climate\, biodiversity\, and global health. She most recently worked at Impossible Foods leading strategic projects and analytics for their foodservice sales team as a Sales Operations Manager. Prior to Impossible\, Shayna worked at Censeo Consulting Group\, providing strategic and operational support for government agencies and nonprofits. She holds a B.S. in Economics from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and a B.S. in Systems Engineering from the University of Pennsylvania. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJoin us\n\n\n\nGFI team members will be attending SF Climate Week and welcome the opportunity to connect with stakeholders working to advance sustainable food solutions. Join us at these sessions and throughout the week to discuss how food innovation can drive climate progress. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/san-francisco-climate-week-2025/ LOCATION:Monument\, 140 9th St\, San Francisco\, California\, 94103\, United States CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/COM24004_featured-events_climate-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250411T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250413T235959 DTSTAMP:20250311T131038Z CREATED:20250311T131037Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250311T131038Z UID:10000672-1744329600-1744588799@gfi.org SUMMARY:Food 4 Thought 2025 DESCRIPTION:Food 4 Thought 2025Past\n\n\n\n\nDon’t miss Bruce Friedrich\, GFI’s founder and president\, as he takes the stage on Saturday\, April 12\, at 9:15 AM to discuss how alternative proteins can help build a more sustainable\, just\, and secure food system. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nFood 4 Thought 2025 is a three-day immersive event hosted at Harvard University\, uniting students\, researchers\, policymakers\, and industry leaders to reimagine the future of food. Following a successful inaugural event that welcomed over 400 attendees from 60 universities across 15 countries\, this year’s festival will expand its reach and impact\, offering: \n\n\n\n\nDynamic discussions on alternative proteins\, food security\, and climate resilience\n\n\n\nGFI’s theory of change and strategies for accelerating food innovation\n\n\n\nThe role of policy in shaping a more equitable and sustainable food system\n\n\n\nOpportunities for students to engage with industry pioneers and explore career pathways\n\n\n\n\nGFI’s Bruce Friedrich will deliver a keynote presentation on these topics\, providing a roadmap for transforming global food production. The event will also feature hands-on programming\, networking opportunities\, and funding support for student-led initiatives. \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent location\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMeet the speaker\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBruce Friedrich\n\n\n\nPRESIDENT AND FOUNDER\, GFI \n\n\n\nBruce Friedrich is the founder and president of the Good Food Institute (GFI)\, an international nonprofit dedicated to reimagining the future of the food system through innovative and collaborative approaches. He oversees GFI’s global strategy\, working with teams across the United States\, Asia Pacific\, Brazil\, Europe\, India\, and Israel to drive meaningful change in alternative protein innovation. \n\n\n\nA TED Fellow\, Y Combinator alum\, and recognized leader in food innovation\, Bruce has written for the Wall Street Journal\, Foreign Policy\, CNN\, Nature Food\, Los Angeles Times\, Wired\, and more. His 2019 TED Talk on the future of food has been viewed over 2.4 million times and translated into 30 languages. \n\n\n\nBruce holds degrees from Georgetown Law\, Johns Hopkins University\, and the London School of Economics. A passionate advocate for a better food system\, he also enjoys biking in heavy traffic. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/food-4-thought-2025/ LOCATION:Harvard University\, Massachusetts Hall\, Cambridge\, Massachusetts\, 02138 CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/svg+xml:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/third-party-event-featured-image_UNIVERSAL.svg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250409T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250409T121500 DTSTAMP:20250403T145701Z CREATED:20250226T131238Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250403T145701Z UID:10000663-1744200000-1744200900@gfi.org SUMMARY:The Next Frontier of Food: Precision Fermentation Innovations—ConnectEd Briefs DESCRIPTION:The Next Frontier of Food: Precision Fermentation Innovations—ConnectEd BriefsPast\n\n\n\n\nJoin Lucas Eastham\, lead scientist\, fermentation\, for a ConnectEd Brief on precision fermentation. Lucas will discuss how this technology is revolutionizing food production\, from alternative proteins to functional ingredients. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nPrecision fermentation is revolutionizing how we produce food ingredients\, offering an increasingly sustainable and innovative approach to creating everything from alternative proteins to functionality. This session will explore the transformative potential of precision fermentation\, highlighting its role in advancing flavor\, nutrition\, and sustainability. Attendees will discover how this technology is setting the stage for the future of food production and paving the way for new opportunities for innovation. Afterward\, keep the conversation going at the Connect Hub from 2:15–3:15 p.m. during the ConnectEd DeBriefs Mixer—a networking opportunity to engage with our ConnectEd Briefs experts. Included with your Expo Pass. \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent location\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMeet the speaker\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLucas Eastham\n\n\n\nLEAD SCIENTIST\, FERMENTATION\, GFI \n\n\n\nLucas works with the SciTech team to analyze the technical landscape for proteins and ingredients derived from microbial fermentation. He identifies key challenges and articulates solutions to accelerate the industry. Before GFI\, Lucas spent ten years at Algenol Biotech commercializing microbial-derived biofuels\, biofertilizers\, food ingredients\, and cosmetic ingredients. His expertise ranges across the bioprocess commercialization spectrum—from strain development\, cultivation process development (USP)\, and downstream process development (DSP) to commercialization and GMP operations. Lucas holds a BS in biology and anthropology from the University of Pittsburgh and an MS in environmental science and management from Duquesne University. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nConnectEd DeBriefs Mixer\n\n\n\nDo not miss the ConnectEd DeBriefs Mixer at the Connect Hub from 2:15–3:15 p.m. for a chance to network with Lucas and other ConnectEd Brief experts. This is a great opportunity to continue the conversation and ask any further questions you may have. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/the-next-frontier-of-food-precision-fermentation-innovations-connected-briefs/ LOCATION:Meadowlands Exposition Center\, 355 Plaza Dr\, Secaucus\, New Jersey CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/COM24004_featured-events_science-academic-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250406T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250413T235959 DTSTAMP:20250403T145610Z CREATED:20250324T155442Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250403T145610Z UID:10000677-1743897600-1744588799@gfi.org SUMMARY:Los Angeles Climate Week DESCRIPTION:Los Angeles Climate WeekPast\n\n\n\n\nGFI is heading to Los Angeles Climate Week! This event brings together climate organizations\, policymakers\, innovators\, companies\, and changemakers from LA and beyond on cutting-edge climate change solutions. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nLos Angeles Climate Week is where climate leaders\, innovators\, and changemakers come together to turn ideas into action. From cutting-edge tech to policy shifts\, this event is all about tangible solutions for a better future. \n\n\n\nGFI will be there to share how alternative proteins innovation can be used to address the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss! \n\n\n\n\n\nFuture Bites: Alt Proteins\, Sustainable Eats & Rooftop Revelations\n\n\n\nThursday\, April 10 at 10 am \n\n\n\nJoin us for a rooftop experience with an exciting conversation exploring the future of food through the lenses of innovation\, equity\, and sustainability. \n\n\n\nModerated by innovation and circular systems expert Dr. Lara Ramdin\, this panel brings together trailblazers who are redefining what’s on our plates and how it gets there. \n\n\n\nHanna Barlow of the Good Food Institute will dive into the science and scale-up of plant-based and cultivated meat\, and the global movement toward a more sustainable protein supply. Chef Lucy of Eat Sauterelle will share her culinary adventures crafting craveable dishes with novel proteins\, including insects. Dana Thiel from Meaningful Works will provide insights on the intersection of social impact\, community empowerment\, and climate-smart food systems. \n\n\n\nWhat we eat and how we grow it is changing fast\, driven by the need to feed a growing population more sustainably. Whether you’re a curious consumer\, policymaker\, or food industry innovator—this bite-sized session is one you won’t want to miss. \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent location\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMeet the speaker\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHanna Barlow\n\n\n\nACADEMIC COMMUNITY SPECIALIST\, GFI \n\n\n\nHanna supports a global community of student groups working to build alternative protein ecosystems at their universities via the Alt Protein Project. Prior to joining GFI\, she worked with the University of California Global Food Initiative\, UCLA Heat Lab\, and Each Green Corner to build and support research and education initiatives at the intersection of climate and food systems. She holds a bachelor’s degree in human biology and food studies at UCLA and is excited to center food justice in the quest to build a world where alternative proteins are no longer alternative. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/los-angeles-climate-week/ LOCATION:Seeds of Hope\, 860 Echo Park Ave\, Los Angeles\, California\, 90026\, United States CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/COM24004_featured-events_climate-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250402T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250406T235959 DTSTAMP:20250403T145527Z CREATED:20250314T124122Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250403T145527Z UID:10000673-1743552000-1743983999@gfi.org SUMMARY:MANRRS 39 DESCRIPTION:MANRRS (Minorities in Agriculture\, Natural Resources and Related Sciences) 39Past\n\n\n\n\nJoin us for an engaging session on alternative proteins and their potential to transform food systems. This session will explore the science\, technology\, and market opportunities behind plant-based\, cultivated\, and fermented proteins driving sustainability and innovation in the food industry. \n\n\n\n Share this page on Bluesky\n \n Share on Bluesky\n\n\n Share this page on Threads\n \n Share on Threads\n\n\n Share this page on Twitter\n \n Share on X\n\n\n Share this page on LinkedIn\n \n Share on LinkedIn\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent description\n\n\n\nMANRRS39 brings together students and professionals in agriculture\, food\, natural resources\, and related sciences to collaborate\, network\, and advance their careers. The conference features industry leaders\, small-group breakout sessions\, workshops\, a career expo\, and opportunities to refine professional skills. \n\n\n\nAsia Sheehab will lead a session on the role of alternative proteins in shaping the future of food. The discussion will cover the environmental\, health\, and scalability benefits of alternative proteins\, the challenges of production\, and their impact on agriculture. \n\n\n\nWhether you are interested in sustainability\, innovation\, or entrepreneurship\, this session will provide insights into how alternative proteins can address global food security and climate challenges. \n\n\n\n\n\nEvent location\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMeet the speaker\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAsia Sheehab\n\n\n\nACADEMIC COMMUNITY SPECIALIST \n\n\n\nAsia Sheehab works with GFI’s university innovation team to support The Alt Protein Project. She empowers and mentors student groups around the world to transform universities into hubs for alternative protein research\, education\, and innovation. \n\n\n\nAsia has a background in program coordination\, food systems\, nutrition research\, and community-building. Prior to joining GFI\, she facilitated clinical nutrition research studies focused on protein consumption and muscle health at the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center. She has also worked with organizations like the Blue Zones Project and The Humane League to engage academic and local communities. \n\n\n\nShe holds a bachelor’s degree in biology from Simmons University and a master’s degree in nutrition science and food policy from Tufts University. Asia is passionate about science communication and brings a strong interest in equitable food systems\, animal welfare\, and sustainability to her work at GFI. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming events\n\n\n\nView all events\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 13\, 2026\n FAO Headquarters\n \n \n \n World Food Forum 2026: Protein diversification for the Global South\n \n \n \n How can protein diversification strengthen food systems across the Global South? At the World Food Forum\, GFI and the Bezos… URL:https://gfi.org/event/manrrs-39/ CATEGORIES:External in-person event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gfi.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/COM24004_featured-events_science-academic-1.png END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR