Kneading Conference 2026: Full Schedule

We envision a world where local grain economies that are
good for people and good for the planet can thrive.

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11:00am EDT

Fork to Future: Creating Educational Experiences for Entrepreneurs in the Food, Beverage and Hospitality Industry

Thursday July 23, 2026 11:00am - 11:15am EDT

Fork to Future is a non-profit organization founded in collaboration with industry professionals, dedicated to advancing education and fostering community among women and other underrepresented groups within the food, beverage, and hospitality sectors. Our first conference focused on the grain economy in WA and our next conference will focus on the dairy industry in CA. Learn more about how we can continue to build community and how to collaborate within the industry to create change.

Fork to Future is a non-profit formed through partnerships with industry experts, aiming to enhance education and nurture a sense of community among women and other underrepresented groups in the food, beverage, and hospitality industries. Our inaugural conference addressed the grain economy in WA, and the upcoming event will highlight the dairy sector in CA. Discover how we can build stronger connections and collaborate across the industry to inspire meaningful change.

Speakers

Stephanie Swane

Modernist Cuisine

Stephanie Swane is the publisher of Modernist Cuisine and their in-house publishing department, The Cooking Lab for over 10 years. She develops and leads new publishing projects and partnership opportunities. She brings over 30 years of experience working on book publishing, global sales & distribution, brand management, foreign rights... Read More →

Thursday July 23, 2026 11:00am - 11:15am EDT
Skowhegan Center for Entrepreneurship 181 Water St, Skowhegan, ME 04976

Business

1:30pm EDT

Scaling Up: Partnering with a Co-Packer to Grow Your Bakery

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm EDT

Skowhegan Center for Entrepreneurship

Join us for an insightful panel discussion exploring the journey from artisan bakery to commercial production. Whether you're a small bakery owner considering expansion or already exploring co-packing options, this session will provide practical insights and actionable strategies to help you make informed decisions about your growth journey.

Speakers

Naomi Neville

Food Accelerator Program Manager, Maine Center for Entrepreneurs

Naomi Neville is the Food Accelerator Program Manager at the Maine Center for Entrepreneurs and is responsible for MCE's Cultivator Program. Originally from England, Naomi moved to Maine 24 years ago and has since made a big impact in the food service and marketing industries. Most... Read More →

Paul Farrell

Union Bagel

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm EDT
Skowhegan Center for Entrepreneurship 181 Water St, Skowhegan, ME 04976