Greetings food science professionals!
Research Cluster Update
The past several months have been particularly intense for CIFST in the lead-up to completing our application to form a research cluster under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP). The AgriScience Program “aims to accelerate innovation by providing funding and support for pre-commercial science activities and research that benefits the agriculture and agri-food sector and Canadians.” We expect to be learning very soon if our application has been approved.
The CIFST cluster’s objective is to support collaboration in three key priority areas that will promote energy reduction and efficiency, innovative production technology and practices, and human health and wellness.
I would like to thank the Cluster Task Force members for their exceptional commitment to the application process. The Task Force includes Constance Wrigley-Thomas, Heidi Loney, Tejas Aivalli, Phillip Lee Wing, and Steve Cui. Additionally, I want to thank everyone who contributed to the application: the proposal applicants, the Science Advisory Board (SAB), and peer reviewers.
We look forward to announcing next steps soon.
Strategic Planning
The CIFST Board of Directors and staff recently engaged in strategic planning for the association. It has been five years since the association last set its strategic priorities.
The new plan will envision CIFST’s future for the next three years and will articulate our strategic imperatives in the areas of professional development, financial sustainability, and alliances and partnerships. We plan on sharing our strategic plan at the upcoming Canadian Food Summit.
Canadian Food Summit
CIFST’s annual conference is the place to be this June 7 to 9 in London, Ontario. This year’s event provides a diverse range of speakers, breakout sessions, and networking events. The 2023 Canadian Food Summit will offer unparalleled opportunities for attendees to learn, connect, and grow. Whether you are a food industry professional, an academic researcher, or a government policy maker, this conference has something for everyone.
The conference also has exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities that will be an excellent vehicle to enhance your brand.
We hope to see you there!
CIFST Awards Program
CIFST has launched its awards program for 2023 and recently announced that we are now accepting nominations in a number of award categories. The deadline to submit your nomination of an individual or organization is May 1st. Awards will be presented at a dinner on June 7th during the annual conference in London, Ontario. Click here for more information.
Call for Nominations
If you are a member in good standing and would like to contribute to the strategic leadership of the Canadian Institute of Food Science and Technology, consider submitting your nomination to serve as a director on our volunteer board of directors.
A call for nominations will be issued the week of April 17th. Watch your e-mail for more information.
Upcoming Events
CIFST has a number of upcoming events at the national and local level. Please refer to the schedule below. I look forward to connecting with you.
