| INTERNATIONAL FOOD AND AGRIBUSINESS MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION |
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CONFERENCE THEME
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Building a Resilient Future for Food and Agriculture |
| The IFAMA 2026 World Conference, hosted by University College Cork and the UCC Business School, welcomes you to Cork, Ireland, 15–19 June 2026. This global conference will explore bold strategies to revitalize agri-food systems as we navigate climate insecurity, geopolitical shifts, breakthrough technologies, price volatility, evolving consumer demands, and global dietary health challenges. These disruptions compel us to reimagine how food and agriculture can better serve humanity—and how well those in our sector are prepared to respond, adapt, and emerge stronger.
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Join us in Ireland, the Emerald Isle |
The IFAMA 2026 World Conference, themed Rooted in Resilience: Revitalizing Agri-Food Systems for an Uncertain Tomorrow, brings together executives, academics, producers, researchers, policymakers, and students to address resilience in action: how farms and food businesses adapt to shifting climates, embrace new technologies, manage global volatility, and attract the next generation of leaders. Over 400 participants from more than 40+ countries will engage in lectures and panel discussions, cutting-edge agricultural technologies, workshops on sustainable practices and cooperative models, and tours highlighting Ireland's thriving agribusiness and food innovation sectors. Ireland—the Emerald Isle—provides the ideal setting for this dialogue. Renowned for its fertile land, proud farming tradition, and world-class food exports to over 180 markets, Ireland is home to Origin Green, the world's only national sustainability program. Here, centuries of farming know-how merge with cutting-edge research and innovation at University College Cork. |  |
IFAMA 2026 Key Themes
Through dynamic presentations, collaborative discussions, and real-world case studies, we'll tackle six critical themes::
Climate Adaptation and Agricultural Resilience
Navigating Geopolitical Uncertainty
Thriving Through Technological Transformation
| Building Human Capital for Tomorrow
Managing Price Volatility and Economic Shocks
Consumer Health Meets Corporate Responsibility
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Cross-Sector Collaboration
Global Student Case Competition |
2-Day Global Business Forum  2-Day Academic Symposium |
Cork, Ireland
Reunite with colleagues |
The Young Board's Quiz Night
Signed letter to COP30 |
Global Business Forum |
The capstone of IFAMA’s annual conference, the 2-Day Global Business Forum in Cork will feature thought-provoking keynote talks, dynamic panel discussions, and action-oriented workshops that spotlight the most urgent issues facing global agribusiness. Expect lively debate on resilience, innovation, and sustainability, alongside interactive exhibits showcasing the latest agri-food technologies.
What makes this Forum unique is its ability to convene voices across every sector—top executives, policymakers, academics, producers, and innovators—sparking a rare cross-pollination of ideas. You’ll connect with global leaders and colleagues from more than 50 countries, all working to shape a food system that is more resilient, sustainable, and equitable.
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What made the Business Industry Forum invaluable wasn't just the content—it was the conversations between sessions with colleagues facing the same headwinds. I left with a network that I am still tapping into months later. IFAMA 2025 Conference Attendee |
Academic Symposium |
The Academic Symposium lays the intellectual foundation for the IFAMA 2026 World Conference. For two days, scholars will present cutting-edge research and new teaching case studies that push the boundaries of agri-food systems thinking. The program is designed to connect academia with industry, NGOs, and government leaders, ensuring fresh insights translate into real-world impact.
All submissions undergo a blind peer-review by the Symposium Review Committee. Authors of high-quality, original research may also be invited to publish in the International Food and Agribusiness Management Review (IFAMR), IFAMA’s flagship academic journal of food and agribusiness management.
Two key components of the Academic Symposium are the Teaching Case Conference, which celebrates best practices in case development and pedagogy, and the Best Paper Competition, which recognizes exceptional research that rises above the standard criteria for symposium presentations. Academics, professors, and industry leaders are encouraged to submit teaching case study proposals. Both components contribute to the exchange of ideas shaping the future of food and agriculture.
The 2026 Academic Symposium in Cork will bring together a diverse community of international scholars—and that's exactly what makes IFAMA unique. So much is gained through this exchange of research projects and case studies. I always walk away with new and fresh ideas. Verena Otter, 2026 Symposium Co-Chair |
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Student Case Competition |
IFAMA is committed to empowering the next generation of agri-food leaders, knowing that the future of feeding the planet rests in their hands. At IFAMA 2026, students and early-career professionals will find opportunities for networking, mentorship, skill-building, and career development on a truly global stage.
For over 20 years, IFAMA’s Student Case Competition has been recognized as the leading world championship competition. Multidisciplinary teams of 3–5 students are challenged to tackle a complex, real-world business case about a current real-world problem impacting the food and ag sector. Within a limited timeframe, teams must analyze the problem, craft a bold and practical strategy, and present their recommendations to a panel of international judges.
The competition not only tests analytical, strategic, and communication skills—it also builds confidence, resilience, and professional networks that last long after the event. By showcasing emerging talent, the Student Case Competition creates a vital pipeline between the classroom and the boardroom.
More details about the 2026 competition will be announced soon.
Global showcase for emerging talent |
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Thank you all for a fantastic IFAMA 2025. I had the pleasure of participating in the Student Case Competition, and hearing from the diverse range of food and agricultural professionals. I am forever grateful for the takeaways. IFAMA 2025 Conference Attendee |
The competition was excellent, featuring an engaging and relevant theme. It encouraged students to dive deeper and expand their knowledge about Brazil, its production systems, market dynamics, challenges, and strengths. The experience not only enhanced my understanding of the Brazilian context but also fostered critical thinking and cross-cultural learning. IFAMA 2025 Conference Attendee |
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Post-Conference AgriTech Tours |
As part of the IFAMA 2026 program, post-conference AgriTech Tours will take place on Friday, June 19, following the conference. The tours are designed to complement the conference program by immersing participants in real-world examples of resilience and innovation. They offer a unique opportunity to witness how Ireland’s farms and food businesses are setting benchmarks for sustainability, quality, and global market leadership.
These tours will take participants into the heart of County Cork—home to some of Ireland’s most dynamic agricultural enterprises. Known worldwide for its lush pastures and farming heritage, Cork is the center of Ireland’s dairy industry and a hub for beef, seafood, and artisan food production. Delegates will have the opportunity to see firsthand how Ireland combines tradition and innovation—visiting agri-tech companies that are pioneering new solutions for a changing world.
Tour options will be announced soon.
2025 Conference Planning Committee |
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VERENA OTTER
TRACY BRADFIELD
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BERNARDO PIAZZARDI
SUSANA FALCAO
ROCIO REINA PANIAGUA
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