Welcome to the new IFT.org
Now home to IFT FIRST
Showcase Your Startup
Launch your food innovation where it matters most. The IFT FIRST Startup Pavilion puts your brand in front of 15,500+ industry decision-makers—investors, buyers, ingredient suppliers, product developers, and food scientists actively looking for the next breakthrough.
Why Exhibit in the Startup Pavilion:
- Connect directly with investors and potential partners
- Showcase your innovation to qualified buyers with purchasing authority
- Network with food science leaders shaping the industry's future
- Gain visibility at the leading food science and innovation expo
Limited to 100 startups. Secure your spot before spaces fill.
BONUS: The Startup Pavilion is home to The Pitch!—a rapid-pitch competition where startups compete for $15,000 in prizes and industry recognition. Pitch your innovation, gain exposure, and accelerate your growth.
The Pitch!
The Pitch! is IFT FIRST's startup competition where six finalists compete live for $15,000 in prizes (presented by Seeding The Future Foundation).
Finalists pitch their innovations to expert judges and an engaged audience of industry decision-makers—gaining visibility, investor connections, and the recognition that accelerates growth.
Open to all Startup Pavilion exhibitors. Compete for funding, exposure, and the industry attention your innovation deserves.
Additional Startup Pavilion Programming
Startup Pavilion exhibitors have access to exclusive, programming designed to increase visibility, engagement, and learning opportunities throughout IFT FIRST.
In addition to exhibiting, startups can participate in curated programming within the Startup Pavilion that creates opportunities to share their work, learn from industry perspectives, and connect with attendees in a more interactive setting. This programming is designed to complement the broader IFT FIRST experience while addressing the needs and interests of emerging companies.
Explore the opportunities below to learn more about the additional ways Startup Pavilion exhibitors can engage with attendees and enhance their presence on the expo hall floor.
Bring Your Startup to the Startup Pavilion
Complete the form to get more information about exhibiting and connect with our team.
Showcase Your Startup Explore 2026 Startup Pavilion Exhibitors
2026 Startup Pavilion Sponsors
We’re grateful to our sponsors for their support of the Startup Pavilion. Their commitment helps spotlight emerging businesses, drive innovation, and create valuable opportunities for the next generation of food system pioneers.
Exhibitor Sales Contact Information
