: The Pumpkin Production track focuses on both organic and conventional growing practices tailored to Illinois’ climate and soil conditions. Workshops will cover pest and disease management, soil fertility, and production techniques to help growers maximize yield and fruit quality. Join experienced producers and experts to gain practical insights and strategies for successful pumpkin cultivation from planting to harvest.

: The Vegetable Production Extended track offers an in-depth exploration of advanced organic and conventional techniques for growing a wide variety of vegetable crops in Illinois. Workshops will focus on optimizing soil health, managing pests and diseases, and improving crop performance to help experienced growers enhance productivity and sustainability. Engage with researchers and seasoned farmers to discover innovative solutions and deepen your expertise in vegetable production.

: The Small Fruit Production Illinois track highlights organic and conventional practices for growing a variety of small fruits, such as brambles, suited to Illinois’ growing conditions. Workshops will cover pest and disease management, pruning, fertilization, and harvesting techniques to help growers improve fruit quality and yield. Connect with experts and fellow producers to gain practical knowledge and strategies for successful small fruit cultivation in the region.

The Resilient Revenue Streams track is designed for nonprofits, farmers, technical assistance providers, and many others seeking to strengthen financial sustainability beyond conventional grants. Workshops will focus on alternative revenue sources, effective grant management, and diversifying income models to build long-term resilience. Join experts and peers to explore innovative strategies that support stable, adaptable funding for your organization or farm.

: The Cottage Food Production track covers essential topics for small-scale food producers, including product development, labeling requirements, and navigating local and state regulations. Workshops will also explore effective marketing strategies and opportunities for selling at farmers markets and other local venues. Join experts and fellow producers to learn how to create safe, compliant, and market-ready cottage food products that can grow your business.

: The Farm-to-Institution: Farmer Training track provides targeted workshops to help growers navigate the unique challenges and opportunities of supplying local food to schools, hospitals, and other institutions. Topics include production planning, quality standards, packaging, and building relationships with institutional buyers. Connect with experienced farmers and food service professionals to gain practical skills and strategies for successfully entering and growing in the farm-to-institution market.

The Roots of a Successful Market: Secrets Unveiled track offers an in-depth exploration of the key elements that build thriving local markets. Participants will dive into effective marketing strategies, community engagement techniques, vendor curation, and partnership development that drive market growth and sustainability. Join experienced market leaders to uncover practical insights and proven approaches that foster vibrant, well-supported markets.

The Business Development track provides farmers, nonprofits, and food entrepreneurs with the tools and knowledge to strengthen and grow their operations. Workshops will cover essential topics such as financial management, marketing, human resources, succession planning, and grant opportunities to support long-term success. Connect with experts and peers to gain practical insights and strategies for building resilient, sustainable businesses in the food and agriculture sector.

The Niche Market track explores opportunities for farmers and food entrepreneurs to diversify and grow through unique, specialty markets. Workshops will highlight innovative production practices, value-added products, and market channels that go beyond traditional sales, helping participants identify and capitalize on high-demand niches. Join growers, experts, and peers to discover practical strategies for building profitable, resilient businesses in emerging market spaces.