NCFIL Entrepreneur Bootcamp

Join the NCFIL Entrepreneur Bootcamp on February 3-4, 2026, for an intensive, two-day program designed to fast-track the commercialization of your plant-based food or beverage product. Held at the NC Food Innovation Lab (NCFIL), this hands-on experience equips you with the essential knowledge, best practices and industry network to successfully move from concept to market. Don't miss this opportunity to bridge the gap between innovation and commercial success!

The Bootcamp is focused on providing actionable insights and best practices from industry experts. Key topics covered include:

• Mastering Formulation: Learn best practices for commercial formula creation, optimizing processes and effectively working with co-manufacturers.
• Smart Sourcing & Pricing: Strategies for effective ingredient sourcing and pricing to maintain quality and profitability.
• Food Safety & Compliance: Best practices for food safety protocols, how to avoid food safety issues in your product design and key considerations for shelf-life testing.
• Scaling & Growth: Essential guidance on how to smoothly and efficiently scale-up as you grow your business.
• Strategic Thinking: How to ask better questions and leverage consumer trends to position your product for success.

Budding entrepreneurs graduate from the Bootcamp well-prepared to pursue next steps in their journey, equipped with the knowledge to utilize North Carolina’s extensive resources for business mentorship, formal programs and peer-to-peer communities.

This is a must-attend event for any entrepreneur serious about bringing a successful plant-based food or beverage product to market.

Register soon — space is limited. Once capacity is reached, a waitlist will open. Registration closes January 9, 2026.

**$50 discount for early bird registration prior to December 19, 2025. **

Contact [email protected] with questions.

Find parking information and accommodation options in the NCFIL Visitor's Guide.

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The NCFIL Entrepreneur Bootcamp is sponsored by the Walters Family Foundation. The Walters Family Foundation seeks to strengthen communities through conserving the natural environment, celebrating arts and culture, advancing economic vitality and empowering individuals to reach their full potential through innovative learning initiatives.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

150 N Research Campus Dr, 150 North Research Campus Drive, Kannapolis, United States

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

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