We can’t wait to convene in Seattle to discuss how to build a more sustainable and resilient food system at the 2025 ReFED Food Waste Solutions Summit—and with just over two months left until the big event, we put together this list of reasons why you need to be there:

1. Get Equipped with Actionable Insights from Mainstage and Breakout Sessions

Our recent progress report identified the need for accelerated action from all food system actors to make a dent in food loss and waste by 2030. And that’s exactly what the Summit is all about—equipping you with the insights to drive progress on food loss and waste in your organization and sphere of influence. Mainstage and breakout sessions will focus on a wide range of topics, from consumer trends and changing diet patterns, to the new policy landscape, to alternative financing, and whole chain collaboration. See our session schedule.

2. Learn From and Be Inspired by Subject Matter Experts

Conferences are an opportunity to gather with and learn from subject matter experts from across the country (and the world), and the Summit is no different! Our lineup of speakers, panelists, and moderators is extensive, providing you with the chance to hear firsthand some of the latest and greatest ideas for how to address food loss and waste, as well as challenge your assumptions on what’s possible. We just announced our first round of speakers—including Kelly Goodejohn, Chief Social Impact Officer of Starbucks, Shara Orem, Senior Director of Community Engagement at Datassential, and Suzanne Long, Chief Sustainability and Transformation Officer at Albertsons Companies – with many more coming soon. See our current speaker lineup.

3. Network with Your Peers and Key Players in the Food Waste Ecosystem

Networking with peers, mentors, thought leaders, and friends is a key reason that we bring the food community together at our annual event. We intentionally build networking opportunities into the schedule. Whether that’s during a happy hour, no-host dinner, or during a break, the Summit offers many chances for you to meet with new and returning attendees from across the food system to discuss solving food loss and waste.

4. See Solutions in Action on a Field Trip

What better way to kick off the conference than visiting organizations who are driving some of the solutions that will be highlighted at the Summit?! Among the favorite activities of past Summit attendees, field trips are scheduled for Monday afternoon. These include visits to Climate Pledge Arena, Restaurant2Garden, Ryp Labs, and Google x Compass. Learn best practices, ask questions, and connect with fellow attendees about food waste reduction in a hands-on environment. There are only a few field trips left that still have open spots—so act fast! Sign up for a field trip.

5. Get a Peek at the Latest Solutions from Exhibitors

In between sessions, you’ll have an opportunity to come face-to-face with exhibitors who are addressing food loss and waste with fresh approaches and strategies. This is your opportunity to explore solutions and get a peek at opportunities for partnership and collaboration. From innovative technologies to high-impact initiatives, this year’s exhibitors are sure to get you thinking and talking about what’s possible.

6. Get a Pulse on the State of Funding and Philanthropy in the Food Waste Sector

We know that one of the key levers to accelerate action on food loss and waste is funding. Through sessions and networking, including a mainstage session with Victor Friedberg and a breakout on creative and alternative financing models, Summit attendees will hear from investors and philanthropists who are working to fund solutions—setting the table for additional conversations and potential funding opportunities down the road. Also, be the first to hear a special announcement from ReFED’s Catalytic Grant Fund!

7. Immerse Yourself in the Food and Culture Scene of the “Emerald City”

We couldn’t be more excited to host the Summit in Seattle, with its commitment to sustainability, vibrant urban agriculture tradition, tapestry of neighborhoods, and a rich ecosystem of native foods—it’s truly the perfect backdrop. Grab a bite at the Pike Place Market, conquer your fear of heights at the Space Needle, or check out one of the many beautiful parks, all while immersing yourself in the unique surroundings of this one-of-a-kind city. You’ll also get a chance to hear about all of the incredible food waste action happening in Seattle and Washington State during a special mainstage session! (Learn more about the host city.)

So what are you waiting for?? Secure your ticket to the must-attend food waste event of the year today.