2022 Live Local Food Conference to highlight opportunities in local food systems

Illinois Farm Bureau (IFB), in partnership with the Illinois Farmers Market Association (IFMA), will host the 2022 Live Local: Food & Farmers Market Conference on March 23-24 at the Embassy Suites in East Peoria.

The two-day conference will bring local farmers, local organizations and local businesses together to highlight Illinois’ food systems, from farms to consumers. The event is hosted through Live Local, Shop Local, an IFB program connecting local food and farm businesses and Illinois communities.

“We are excited to again partner with Illinois Farmers Market Association to offer an engaging two-day conference that explores opportunities within our local food systems,” said Raghela Scavuzzo, associate director of food systems development, IFB. “Attendees will have opportunities to network, gain new insights on specific industry topics and market opportunities, and plan for the future.”

The conference will open with an address from Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton, in which she will update attendees on a revamped Cultivating Our Communities initiative with IFB and the Illinois Specialty Growers Association. She will be followed by a panel discussion of state agency representatives on state policies and programs supporting food systems and reducing food insecurity.

Additional conference highlights include:

• Exclusive networking opportunities within the Illinois’ local food systems.

• Three general sessions offering a deep dive into community-related issues.

• Choose from four breakout session topics: Financials and risk management, marketing and communications, market opportunities and technology.

• Connect with and gather resources from various organizations hosting exhibitor tables throughout the event.

• Taste local foods.

• Discover how the state is helping to create programs and grants that will create an equitable sustainable local food system.

• Participate in engaging keynote sessions from organizations and businesses across the value chain that are helping to build strong united communities.

• Register to attend the FSMA Produce Safety Class. Certification and manual included in
registration.

IFB and ILFMA members may register now through March 9 for $45; non-members may register now through March 9 for $70. After March 9, members may register onsite for $60; non-members may register onsite for $90. Conference cost includes two light breakfasts, two lunches, appetizers at networking hour and snacks and beverages throughout each day. Meals will include locally sourced food from Peoria and additional central Illinois areas; participants can learn more about the farms and communities providing fresh food through sustainable food systems.

Hotel reservations can be made at the Embassy Suites by Hilton East Peoria Riverfront Hotel & Conference Center. The room rate is $137 and the deadline to reserve is March 9. Room reservations can be made here or by calling 309-694-0200.
Conference registration is open online at www.ilfb.org/livelocal. For additional information, contact Raghela Scavuzzo at 309-557-2155 or [email protected].