Plant FWD is an event like no other, designed to bring together some of the brightest minds in the food industry, all united by a shared passion for transforming the future of food. This unique gathering in 2025 promises to be an inspiring and dynamic space where entrepreneurs, investors, chefs, researchers, policymakers, and corporations converge to drive change in our global food system. The aim is nothing short of a radical transformation—one that centers around sustainable, plant-forward practices that will shape the way we grow, produce, and consume food.
What makes Plant FWD so exciting is its ability to unite key players across diverse sectors. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with over 1,000 changemakers—people who are already making waves in the food industry. This is a space where visionaries and industry experts can exchange ideas, collaborate, and create new partnerships to drive innovation forward. The event will feature more than 40 influential speakers, including thought leaders like Jimmy Nelson and Harald Friedl, who are recognized for their work in sustainability and food innovation. These speakers, alongside organizations such as Redefine Meat, the World Resources Institute, and EAT, will present fresh perspectives on the future of food, discussing the role plant-based solutions play in addressing global food security, environmental sustainability, and health.
In addition to its thought-provoking sessions, Plant FWD offers attendees the chance to discover the latest and most exciting food innovations. Start-ups and scale-ups will showcase their groundbreaking products, offering attendees a first look at the future of plant-based food. These companies will have the opportunity to pitch their ideas to retail buyers and investors, creating potential for collaboration and investment. The Market of 1,000 m² will serve as an expansive showcase for the latest products and food innovations from partners, allowing visitors to taste and experience firsthand the cutting-edge food trends that are redefining what it means to eat plant-based.
For those passionate about creating a sustainable, plant-forward future, Plant FWD is not just an event—it’s an opportunity to take part in something bigger, to be inspired by the bold actions of those already pushing boundaries, and to contribute to a future where plant-based solutions are at the heart of the global food system. Whether you are an entrepreneur, investor, or simply someone interested in the future of food, Plant FWD offers an inspiring and collaborative environment that promises to ignite new ideas, foster partnerships, and inspire action for a more sustainable world.
The Canadian National Exhibition, affectionately known as “The Ex,” is more than just an annual fair; it’s a vibrant celebration of Canada’s cultural tapestry, technological advancements, and agricultural heritage. Held at Toronto’s historic Exhibition Place, this renowned not-for-profit event has captivated audiences for nearly 150 years, making it one of the country’s largest and most beloved fairs.
Founded in the late 19th century to showcase Canada’s agricultural and scientific achievements, The Ex has evolved into a dynamic showcase of everything from cutting-edge technology to rich cultural exhibits. Visitors can immerse themselves in a range of activities, including live music performances featuring local and national artists, exhibitions on arts and crafts, and displays celebrating diverse world cultures. This blend of tradition and modernity is what makes The Ex a unique experience for attendees of all ages.
One of the highlights of The Canadian National Exhibition is its commitment to innovation. The event regularly features special exhibits like the Vertical Hydroponics display, which showcases sustainable farming techniques, and the exciting eSports tournaments at the CNE Gaming Garage. These elements reflect the fair's dedication to merging Canada’s agricultural roots with the latest advancements in technology.
Food lovers find themselves in paradise at The Ex, particularly in the Toronto Star Food Building. Here, attendees can sample an eclectic array of dishes from some of Toronto’s finest local restaurants, catering to a variety of dietary preferences and restrictions. The culinary offerings are a testament to the city’s diverse food scene, providing everything from traditional fair snacks to gourmet delights.
The Ex also takes pride in its cultural programming, exemplified by exhibits hosted by The Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, which provide a deeper understanding of Indigenous heritage and contributions. This commitment to inclusivity enriches the experience for all attendees, fostering a sense of community that is palpable throughout the fairgrounds.
Amidst the modern attractions, The Ex pays homage to its historical roots. Visitors can explore the oldest surviving structure in Toronto, an 18th-century log cabin, or enjoy quirky traditions like the butter sculpture competition, where artists create intricate designs from this unlikely medium. The carnival midway adds to the festive atmosphere, offering classic games and rides that evoke a sense of nostalgia.
As summer draws to a close, The Ex culminates in a spectacular Labour Day weekend air show that captivates audiences with thrilling aerial performances. This grand finale not only showcases the excitement of aviation but also serves as a reminder of the community spirit that The Canadian National Exhibition embodies.
The Canadian National Exhibition is a remarkable event that beautifully intertwines the past with the present, innovation with tradition, and community with culture. Whether drawn by the promise of exhilarating entertainment, delectable food, or the chance to explore Canada’s agricultural and technological advancements, The Ex offers something for everyone. It’s a celebration of what makes Canada unique and a testament to the enduring spirit of its people. So, as the gates of The Ex open each summer, they invite you to partake in a cherished tradition that continues to inspire and delight.
The Latin American Avocado Hub, known as Territorio Aguacate, stands as the premier commercial, networking, and knowledge-sharing event for the Hass avocado industry in Colombia and throughout Latin America. This dynamic event brings together key players in the avocado agro-industry, from producers and exporters to researchers and innovators, all with a shared goal: to propel the avocado sector to new heights. At the heart of this gathering is a commitment to embracing innovation, fostering research, and exploring new horizons in avocado cultivation, processing, and distribution.
Territorio Aguacate serves as a unique platform where the latest technological advancements and industry trends are showcased, offering participants an opportunity to discover cutting-edge solutions that improve productivity, efficiency, and sustainability in avocado farming. Whether it’s new farming techniques, smarter processing methods, or state-of-the-art packaging and distribution innovations, the event highlights developments that are shaping the future of the avocado industry.
One of the key features of Territorio Aguacate is its role in facilitating meaningful connections. By bringing together stakeholders from across the avocado value chain, the event ensures that participants can engage in valuable networking opportunities, forge new business relationships, and stay ahead of emerging trends and market demands. It is a space where industry leaders exchange ideas, share experiences, and discuss best practices, further strengthening the bonds within the avocado community.
As the avocado industry continues to expand globally, events like Territorio Aguacate play a crucial role in ensuring that Latin America, particularly Colombia, remains at the forefront of this growth. The event not only highlights the economic importance of avocados to the region but also supports sustainability initiatives that are increasingly vital in today’s agricultural landscape. By fostering collaboration, promoting research, and showcasing technological innovations, Territorio Aguacate is helping to build a more sustainable, efficient, and competitive avocado industry that benefits all stakeholders involved.
GOPEX, previously known as the Global Organic Produce Expo, is an exciting event where the world of fresh produce meets the growing demand for conscious consumerism. This unique gathering is designed to connect industry professionals with the rapidly expanding demographic of consumers who are prioritizing sustainability, health, and ethical sourcing in their purchasing decisions. GOPEX provides a dynamic platform for retailers, growers, wholesalers, importers, exporters, and decision-makers from across the fresh produce sector to come together, share knowledge, and collaborate on the future of organic produce.
At the heart of GOPEX is the commitment to empowering education. The event offers a wide range of educational sessions focused on the most relevant topics in the organic and fresh produce industries. These sessions aim to equip attendees with the insights and tools they need to stay ahead of the curve in a market that is increasingly driven by consumer demand for healthier, more sustainable food options. With expert speakers and thought leaders from across the globe, GOPEX ensures that participants are well-informed on trends, challenges, and best practices in organic farming, supply chain management, marketing, and consumer behavior.
In addition to the educational offerings, GOPEX provides an array of networking opportunities designed to foster meaningful connections and business growth. The event includes the popular BizMatch meeting scheduler, which pairs organic suppliers with qualified retail and wholesale buyers, making it easier for businesses to form partnerships and expand their market reach. This personalized matchmaking system helps ensure that attendees meet the right people at the right time, facilitating productive conversations and opening doors to new opportunities in the organic produce sector.
What truly sets GOPEX apart is its focus on fun and engagement. While the event is rooted in business, there is an emphasis on creating an enjoyable and vibrant atmosphere where networking happens naturally. From casual meet-ups to social events, GOPEX fosters an environment where industry professionals can connect, relax, and enjoy the experience. This balance of education, business, and fun makes GOPEX a one-of-a-kind event in the organic produce industry.
As the organic market continues to grow and evolve, GOPEX remains a crucial event for anyone involved in the fresh produce supply chain. It is not just a place to learn about the latest trends or meet potential buyers; it is a celebration of the organic movement and a chance to engage with like-minded individuals who share a passion for sustainability and ethical food production. Whether you're a grower, retailer, or consumer-facing business, GOPEX offers the tools, resources, and connections you need to thrive in the ever-expanding world of organic produce.
