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.
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.
Program | Focus | Location | Dates | Sponsorship Fee |
---|---|---|---|---|
#45 | CHAIN | Palmetto Bluff, SC | Sun 3/1 – Wed 3/4 | $35,000 |
#46 | CHAIN | Sun Valley, ID | Sun 5/31 – Wed 6/3 | $32,500 |
#47 | CHAIN | Sun Valley, ID | Sun 9/20 – Wed 9/23 | $35,000 |
#48 | NON-COMM | Sun Valley, ID | Sun 10/25 – Wed 10/28 | $32,500 |
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.
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.
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.
We approach these decisions with transparency and care, and always with the operator in mind.
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:
We appreciate your understanding — and your flexibility — as we strive to make each stay as comfortable and seamless as possible.
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.
We remain committed to delivering an exceptional and efficient event experience — one that maximizes value for every partner.
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.