FOOD & BEVERAGE SYNERGY SUMMIT 2026

ABOUT THE FORUM:

The Food Synergy Forum 2026 is a high-impact business platform created to empower emerging and growth-stage Food & Beverage start-ups in their journey toward scalability and success. The forum focuses on addressing real-world challenges faced by entrepreneurs—ranging from product development, process optimization, packaging, logistics, financing, and branding—and connects them with the right ecosystem partners.

It serves as a bridge between innovative start-ups and industry enablers including investors, manufacturers, consultants, and institutions. Through curated pitch sessions, panel discussions, mentorship dialogues, and networking opportunities, participants gain actionable insights, exposure, and access to capital and technology. Hosted alongside the Food & Drink Processing Expo 2026, the forum offers a vibrant environment for collaboration, learning, and business growth—helping transform innovative ideas into market-ready, sustainable enterprises within India’s rapidly evolving food and beverage industry.

Participation Eligibility :

• The Food Synergy Forum 2026 is open to emerging food and beverage start-ups that are already active in the market with at least one launched product.
• Participation in the Start-up Pavilion is mandatory for eligibility to pitch at the forum
• All entries will undergo a jury-led evaluation process to ensure quality, innovation, and scalability
• Only shortlisted start-ups will be invited to present their product and business model on stage
• This ensures a curated line-up of credible, growth-driven ventures ready for industry collaboration and investment

Participation Options:

Shared Table Space – ₹20,000 + GST

• One Table & Chair in shared zone
• Directory listing + Pitch eligibility

Exclusive Booth (4 Sqm) – ₹40,000 + GST

• Shell scheme booth with fascia, 1 table, 2 chairs, 2 spotlights, 1 power socket
• Directory listing + Pitch eligibility

Expected Outcomes

• 25+ start-up participation
• 8 curated start-up pitches
• Direct investor & industry networking
• Mentorship & partnership opportunities
• Business visibility, funding, and scale-up support

General Rules:

• Each nomination implies acceptance of the rules and full cooperation with the award process.
• This is an industry recognition initiative to highlight innovations and comparative advantages — not a scientific evaluation.
• Results are final and not subject to review or dispute.
• Participants must avoid conflicts of interest and any attempts to influence outcomes. Violations will result in disqualification.
• Organizers are not liable for any loss/damage to submitted products or equipment.
• By participating, nominees accept full responsibility and provide informed consent.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

10:00 – 10:30 AM | Opening & Keynote

• The forum opens with a welcome address and keynote session on “Building India’s Next Generation Food & Beverage Brands.”
• It sets the tone for innovation, collaboration, and growth in the F&B start-up ecosystem

10:30 – 11:00 AM | Advisory Committee Introduction

• Experts from AFSTI and industry verticals introduce the advisory committee representing technology, manufacturing, finance, and branding
• Each shares in-sights on how their expertise contributes to enabling start-up success

11:00 – 1:00 PM | Start-up Pitch Presentations

• Selected start-ups present their products, business models, and scale-up needs to a panel of investors, mentors, and sector specialists
• Each pitch is followed by Q&A, fostering direct feedback, connections, and potential partnerships

1:00 – 2:00 PM | Networking Lunch

• An exclusive B2B networking session connecting entrepreneurs, investors, consultants, and institutional leaders
• A perfect space to build collaborations and explore business synergies over lunch

2:00 – 3:00 PM | Panel Discussion – “Scaling Food Innovation”

• Industry leaders and investors discuss how to convert product innovation into scalable, market-ready brands.
• The session highlights strategies in manufacturing, funding, and market expansion

3:00 – 4:00 PM | Mentorship Dialogue

• An interactive, solution-oriented session between start-ups and mentors from AFSTI and industry
• Focused on product improvement, compliance, marketing, and financial roadmap planning

4:00 – 4:30 PM | Recognition & Closing

• The forum concludes with recognition of outstanding start-ups and contributors
• Certificates and awards are presented, celebrating innovation and entrepreneurship in the food sector.

Delegates Profile:

• Food & Beverage Companies including Start-ups
• Investors, VCs & Financial Institutions
• Machinery, Packaging & Supply Chain Providers
• Consultants, Mentors & Knowledge Experts
• Government & Institutional Representatives