Join Us Live For
FoodCon 2026
April 10, 2026 | Talley Student Union - NC State
2026 Theme
Growing Together: Partnerships For A Resilient Food System
2026 Sponsors
About Event
FoodCon is a conference that brings together industry leaders and innovators to explore trends, share insights, and drive solutions for the future of food. This conference is co-hosted by MBA students passionate about food, agribusiness, and sustainability from the NC State Poole College of Management, Duke University Fuqua School of Business and University of Chapel Hill Kenan-Flagler School of Business.
Our Mission
Our food system drives economic growth, sustainability, and social equity. With food demand set to rise 50% by 2050, innovation is crucial. FoodCon empowers future leaders to tackle challenges like food insecurity and climate change while creating economic value.
Empowering future leaders to solve food challenges and create value.
Driving economic growth, sustainability, and equity.

Todd Dolinsky
Chief Product Officer - Trustwell

Maggie Funkhouser
Director - NC Farmers Market Network

Dara Bloom
Associate Professor - NC State University Local Foods Extension Specialist

Dr. Daniela Jones
Associate Professor - NC State University | Dept. of Biological and Agricultural Engineering

Will Kornegay
Ripe Revival

Kristen Powers
Benevolence Farm

Eric Henry
TS Designs
Agenda
The most anticipated conference is coming
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is food and agriculture an interesting area for MBAs?
By the year 2050, we will need to produce at least 50% more food to keep up with population growth and demographic shift. However, natural resources like arable land and potable water are limited. Growth will need to involve innovative solutions, technologies and efforts across the supply chain from the field to the fork. Business leaders will be integral to growing the industry and steering the many companies that support the sector. We see this challenge as an opportunity to generate value and impact in multi-disciplinary, fast paced and dynamic industry.
Where will the conference be held?
The conference will be located at NC State University’s Talley Student Union on the third floor.Â
Where can I park for the conference?
All attendees can park at the Coliseum Parking Deck at the paid parking lots.
Will lunch be provided?
Yes a light breakfast and a lunch will be catered for the event and included in your ticket price.
What is the dress code?
The recommended attire is business casual. We want you to be comfortable for a full day of sessions, but polished enough for networking with industry speakers.
Are there specific dietary options available?
Yes. Our catering includes vegetarian and gluten-free options. If you have a severe allergy or specific dietary requirement, please let us know as soon as possible by emailing ncfoodcon@gmail.com.
Is there a digital app or a printed schedule?
We will provide a schedule on the back of your name tag for the event and we will also have a schedule printed on QR codes for the event.
Past Sponsors & Partners
