General Session VI: Beyond the Balance Sheet: Investing in the Future of our Food System

Advancing food systems that sustain the health of people, the planet, and whole economies requires identifying and scaling financial mechanisms, business models, and technological innovations that optimize and accelerate the pace of change. Understanding trends in financial markets and investment patterns can help chefs and operators have a seat at the table in shaping the future of their businesses and driving industry transformation. In this session, you’ll hear insights from two business executives: one implementing a unique restaurant model that fights for food justice by making fresh, nutritious food accessible and affordable and by fostering economic empowerment among entrepreneurs from marginalized communities, and one who invests directly in early-stage food and agriculture companies developing innovations to change how we grow, produce, and distribute food.

• Michael Kaufman (Senior Lecturer, Harvard Business School; Co-Chair, Menus of Change Business Leadership Council)
• Bryce Fluellen (President & Co-Founder, Arthur Lee Consulting & Advisory)
• Peter Herz (General Partner, 1st Course Capital)

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CIA: https://www.ciachef.edu
CIA for Enthusiasts: https://www.ciafoodies.com
CIA at Copia: https://www.ciaatcopia.com
CIA ProChef: https://www.ciaprochef.com

Founded in 1946, the Culinary Institute of America is the world’s premier culinary college. Dedicated to developing leaders in foodservice and hospitality, the independent, not-for-profit CIA offers master’s, bachelor’s, and associate degrees with majors in culinary arts, baking and pastry arts, food business management, hospitality management, culinary science, and applied food studies. The college also offers executive education, certificate programs, and courses for professionals and enthusiasts. Its conferences, leadership initiatives, and consulting services have made CIA the think tank of the food industry and its worldwide network of more than 50,000 alumni includes innovators in every area of the food world. CIA has locations in New York, California, Texas, and Singapore.