Welcome To
FoodOvation 2026
First Things First: Thank You
Whether you joined us in 2025 or have been part of this journey for ten years, we’re deeply grateful for your partnership, feedback, and belief in what we’re building together. FoodOvation exists because of you.
We’re excited to give you early access to what’s ahead in 2026 — program dates, investment details, and several thoughtful enhancements inspired by your input and that of our operator partners.
This page is just for you — our returning sponsors — so you can plan early, stay informed, and continue shaping the experience you’ve helped create.
Let’s make 2026 the most impactful year yet.
2026 Program Calendar & Sponsorship Fees
We’re sharing 2026 dates and investment details below, along with a bit of context behind this year’s pricing updates.
Each FoodOvation Exchange program includes curated operator matching, full-service event programming, chef-driven dining, high-touch hospitality, and the chance to connect directly with key decision-makers.
2026 Program Dates & Sponsorship Fees
| Location | Dates | Fee | |
|---|---|---|---|
| #45 | Palmetto Bluff, SC | Sun 3/1 – Wed 3/4 | $35,000 |
| #46 | Sun Valley, ID | Sun 5/31 – Wed 6/3 | $32,500 |
| #47 | Sun Valley, ID | Sun 9/20 – Wed 9/23 | $35,000 |
| #48 | Sun Valley, ID | Sun 10/25 – Wed 10/28 | $32,500 |
2026 Program
Enhancements
We’ve made a few smart updates to how FoodOvation operates — refinements that elevate the experience for both sponsors and operators. From who we invite to when and where we gather, every change is designed to drive meaningful engagement.
A Sharper Focus on Operator Titles
Chefs, R&D, and Culinary leads remain our primary targets. In 2026, Marketing titles will move into the secondary seat, recognizing their growing role in brand storytelling and menu innovation. Procurement titles will shift to a tertiary focus.
We’ll continue to prioritize Chefs and Culinary teams, while placing increased emphasis on nutritionists and dietitians. Procurement may again be a lower priority.
A New Time for Non-Comm: October 2026
- Contract Management Companies – culinary teams within specific lines of business
- High-impact Self-ops and Independents
- Travel & Leisure – resorts, hotels, casinos, theme parks, transit centers, etc.
- Foodservice at Retail – grocery and convenience segments
Competitive Consideration
We get it — supplier competition is real, and exclusivity matters. Our north star remains the operator experience, and we’ll continue making decisions that protect the clarity and value of that experience.
A collaborative atmosphere focused on culinary innovation is foundational to FoodOvation. Operators come to explore brands that influence multiple parts of their menu. That diversity is core to our mission.
- You may continue to omit one competitive brand by name
- If multiple sponsors in the same category request participation, we’ll do our best to support both — exclusive where possible, non-exclusive if needed, as long as it doesn’t compromise the operator experience
- If your company has a multi-brand portfolio, one sponsorship still covers it — but full exclusivity across categories may not always be feasible
We approach these decisions with transparency and care, and always with the operator in mind.
Sponsor Housing
With more returning sponsors and a growing event calendar, we can’t always honor every housing request. That said, we’ll continue to provide accommodations that are well-appointed and fully equipped for your needs.
Here’s how housing will be handled in 2026:
- Priority will be given to multi-sponsor partners
- Remaining assignments will be made on a first-come, first-served basis
We appreciate your understanding — and your flexibility — as we strive to make each stay as comfortable and seamless as possible.
Auxiliary Events
Auxiliary moments — like welcome receptions, cocktail hours, and afterparties — will continue to be offered as value-added, on-agenda experiences for select partners.
These are key relationship moments that set the tone for the program.
Reach out to Ansa to discuss availability and alignment.
Please note: these opportunities are generally reserved for multi-program sponsors as part of their broader Exchange participation.
Modest Price Adjustments
- Rooming costs at destination resorts are up some due to higher demand and limited availability
- Catering and food costs have increased by ~9% year-over-year
- Service fees from venues are up slightly
- Activities and offsite experiences have risen more than 10% (primarily driven by labor and insurance hikes)
- Good news: We’re not seeing significant changes in air or ground transportation costs, which helps us keep overall investment levels in check
We remain committed to delivering an exceptional and efficient event experience — one that maximizes value for every partner.
Why FoodOvation Still Delivers More Value
FoodOvation brings you face-to-face with 11+ highly qualified operator brands over just three days.
Trying to create the same impact through individual meetings could cost twice as much — and would require over 2,000 additional resource hours.
Want to see the math? Just ask. We’re happy to show you.
We Look Forward To Adding
You To The Menu in 2026
Please reach out to schedule a quick 1-on-1 call.