MIIM Conference Agenda

MIIM 2025 image

2025 Making It In Michigan Conference Agenda

 

8:30 AM                Welcome

Mollie Woods, Director, Michigan State University Product Center

8:35 - 9:00 AM      Keynote Address: One Arrow, Infinite Impact: Leading with Authenticity and Purpose

Marcus Reliford, Jr. Small Business Strategist, TechTown Detroit

Ederique “Chef E” Goudia, Founder, In the Business of Food; Manager, Eastern Market Incubator Kitchen

Authenticity and purpose can transform the way you lead in the food industry. Discover how focusing on what truly can create ripple effects of positive change, from community engagement to sustainable practices. Learn how to align your business practices with your values, ensuring that every decision reflects your true purpose.

9:05 - 9:30 AM      Product Center Awards Announcement and Videos
                    • Best Barrier Buster Award
                    • Value Added Agriculture Award
                    • Young Innovator Award
                    • Start Up to Watch Award
                    • Entrepreneur of the Year Award
9:35 - 10:00 AM     Making Claims on Your Food Product Label

Kris D’Angelo, JD, Associate Director, Institute for Food Laws and Regulations, Michigan State University

Join Kris DeAngelo to learn more about labeling and claims for packaged food and beverage products. She will present an overview of how to comply with FDA and USDA regulations, including requirements for naming, standards of identity, required components, nutritional labeling and where to place these items on your package. In addition, we will discuss claims such as nutrient content and health claims, including the new rules on using terms such as “healthy.”

10:05 - 10:25 AM   Specialty Store and Specialty Distributor Panel

Moderator: Laura Wood-Romito, MSU Product Center Innovation Counselor

Panelists:

                    • Tim Kainu, Grocery and Dairy Director, Westborn Market
                    • Rhea VanAtta, Owner, The Old Town General Store, Lansing, MI
                    • Jason Park, Category Manager, Orayana Co-op, Traverse City, MI
                    • Dan Andaloro, T.I. Spices
10:30 - 10:50 AM   Retailer and Distributor Panel

Moderator: Kendra Wills, MSU Product Center Innovation Counselor

Panelists:

                    • Travis Reams, Manager, Supplier Relation Management, Meijer Inc.
                    • Rebecca Stephens, Local Program Manager, Fresh Thyme Market
                    • Jody Daenzer, Local/Natura and Multicultural Specialist, Kroger Company of Michigan
10:55 - 11:00 AM    MSU Product Center and Developing Commercial Recipes

Laura Wood-Romito, MSU Product Center Innovation Counselor

11:00 AM                Conference Adjourns and the Trade Show Opens

 

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