Petfood Forum 2027 is accepting nominations for First for Forum, a program that gives early-career pet food professionals the chance to attend the annual conference and exhibition for the first time at no cost. Petfood Forum 2027 is scheduled for April 26-28 in Kansas City, Missouri, U.S.
Now in its fifth year, the program will select five professionals to receive a Petfood Forum and Operational Edge Seminar All-Access Pass, valued at $1,840. Nominations close Nov. 6.
“First for Forum is designed to give promising early-career pet food professionals the opportunity to experience the conference and exhibition for the first time,” said Steve Akins, executive vice president and publisher of global petfood and events at WATT Global Media, which organizes Petfood Forum along with Petfood Industry magazine. “This is an opportunity to recognize someone who shows potential, initiative and a desire to grow within the pet food industry.”
Selected attendees will have access to all Petfood Forum and pre-event educational sessions, the exhibit hall, the Monday opening reception, the Tuesday networking reception, and breakfast, lunch and coffee breaks. Travel and hotel expenses are the responsibility of the selected candidates.
Who is eligible
Professionals working in pet food manufacturing, brand management, private label and co-manufacturing, consulting and nutrition will be considered. Candidates must be first-time attendees or must not have attended Petfood Forum since 2021. Executives may nominate up to two individuals from their organization, and self-nominations are accepted.
2026 ambassadors
Last year’s class of First for Forum ambassadors represented management, quality assurance and research and development roles across the industry.
Charlie Tian, general manager of Cambridge Treats, sought ideas he could put to work right away.
Rachel Strassburger, quality assurance and R&D assistant with FirstMate & Kasiks Pet Food, looked forward to the academic research at the Future of Pet Food Pavilion.
Josh Holler, R&D associate scientist with Instinct Pet Food, attended his first industry conference with a focus on learning and networking.
Erica Laird, R&D manager with Freshpet, wanted to attend to see how technology is reshaping product development.
To nominate a candidate or apply for First for Forum, visit the Petfood Forum website. Nominations close Nov. 6.
