J.E.D.I Collaborative at Expo West 2022

700 W Convention Way,Anaheim CA 92802

09 March, 2022

Description

Join J.E.D.I Collaborative & New Hope Network for inspiring and activating programming on JEDI initiatives in the natural products industry! J.E.D.I Collaborative programming is free with your Expo West exhibit hall badge. If you haven't registered for Expo West yet, you can do so here. Note: You will not be able to access educational programming without a badge. Agenda: J.E.D.I. Keynote: The Call for Systemic Change in the Natural Products Industry The natural products industry has long been a leader in promoting products that are better for people and the planet, but too many have been left out. It’s imperative that this industry recognizes the need for systemic change. It’s not only possible to operate a more just, equitable, diverse, and inclusive organization, but the benefits of doing so are far-reaching. Hear stories from CEO/Founders in the natural products industry that illustrate the need for systemic change in the industry and how they’re successfully taking a more equitable and inclusive approach to business. Join this session to get inspired to start the journey towards building a more equitable future, together. Speakers: Lara Dickinson - One Step CloserMaryAnne Howland - Global Diversity Leadership Collective & J.E.D.I CollaborativeFunlayo Alabi - Shea RadianceCarlotta Mast - New Hope NetworkTime: 10:00AM-10:25 AM -------- J.E.D.I Pathways to Action & Leadership Reflections In 2019, One Step Closer formed its J.E.D.I Collaborative with the vision of sparking action within the natural products industry toward embedding justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in the entire food ecosystem. J.E.D.I Collaborative offers Pathways to Action, powerful programming designed for the natural products CPG businesses in implementing holistic JEDI initiatives and dismantling exclusionary practices. Learn about the four J.E.D.I Collaborative Pathways to Action and hear from industry leaders about the challenges and inspirations that they’ve experienced in integrating JEDI practices into their brand’s work. Speakers: Cynthia Billops - One Step Closer & J.E.D.I CollaborativeAri Goldsmith - KeHE DistributorsJeff Boutelle - PharmaviteMiyoko Schinner - Miyoko's CreameryMore to be announced!Time: 10:30AM-11:30 AM -------- “What if?” with MaryAnne Howland What if the Fortune 500 was made up of natural products industry businesses? What if natural foods and products were accessible to all communities, especially those that have been historically underrepresented? In this conversation, Maryanne Howland will help us imagine the journey we all can partake in towards a healthier and more equitable society and industry. Speaker: MaryAnne Howland - Global Diversity Leadership Collective & J.E.D.I Collaborative11:35AM-11:45 AM -------- Session Break: Visit emerging brands tabling in Grand Ballroom F during the programming break. Learn about their companies, products, and more! 11:45AM-12:15PM ****** Centering the Consumer: Bringing Products to a Wider Audience The data is clear: At every level of business a commitment to JEDI principles fosters long-term growth and innovation, while also building healthier communities. Focusing on equity and inclusion in new product development, sales, and marketing can help organizations in developing innovative products, opening up new markets, and reaching a wider customer base. Learn from brand leaders how building JEDI principles into a company’s DNA can lead to a more equitable food system and a more regenerative bottom line. Speakers: Ryan Pintado-Vertner(Moderator) - SmoketownIbraheem Basir - A Dozen Cousins & Project PotluckEric Pierce - New Hope NetworkGagan Levy - Guru 12:15PM-1:10PM ******************************* Building a Bigger Table Workshop: Creating Equitable Access to Financing for Emerging Brands An interactive, workshop-style discussion between leaders of emerging brands and investors to address gaps in fundraising opportunities for people of historically underrepresented groups. This workshop will bring together investors of different backgrounds and specialties and emergent brands for rich discussions on finance options that address needs at every business juncture. This session includes facilitated breakouts with investors and brands, as well as an Entrepreneur “Pitch Slam”! Speakers/Breakout Session Moderators: Arno Hesse - Food Funded, Slow Money Northern CaliforniaNicolas McCoy - Whipstitch CapitalNoramay Cadena - Supply Change Capital And more to be announced! 1:15PM-2 PM