Sept 22-23, 2025
Networking & Community – Meet like-minded entrepreneurs, B2B partners, and suppliers who can help take your business to the next level.
Exclusive Industry Focus – Unlike general food processing events, this conference is dedicated specifically to businesses leveraging freeze-drying technology for product and service innovation.
Aspiring entrepreneurs looking to launch a freeze-dried product
B2B companies providing products and services to the freeze-drying industry
Breakout Sessions – Choose from multiple tracks tailored to different aspects of the freeze-drying business
Social Events – Build meaningful connections at networking receptions
Exclusive Sponsorship Access – Meet suppliers and service providers who specialize in freeze-drying
Aspiring entrepreneurs looking to launch a freeze-dried product
B2B companies providing products and services to the freeze-drying industry
Breakout Sessions – Choose from multiple tracks tailored to different aspects of the freeze-drying business
Social Events – Build meaningful connections at networking receptions
Exclusive Sponsorship Access – Meet suppliers and service providers who specialize in freeze-drying
Apps & Drinks Social at location TBD (Early Evening)
8:00am | Breakfast
Kickoff
9:30am | Breakout Sessions
Break
10:45am | Breakout Sessions
Lunch
1:00pm | Sessions & Connection
Break
4:00pm | Social Event
*Full detailed agenda coming soon
8:00am | Breakfast
Keynote
9:30am | Breakout Sessions
Break
10:45am | Breakout Sessions
Lunch
11:45am | Final Session & Conclusion
Summit Complete
Jesus Macias, cofounder of Trendy Treats, transformed a pandemic side hustle into a $5.5 million candy empire with his wife Melinna! With 10M+ social followers and products in 500 stores nationwide, Jesus built their U.S. made candy sensation from just $3,000 in personal investment—proving that sweet success is possible in the freeze-dried industry!
Gene Ligman is the founder of Suntorr Inc. and a freeze-drying industry authority with 20+ years of expertise! As the most sought-after consultant in the field, Gene delivers exceptional value through his profound understanding of applications and equipment in freeze-drying. His unique approach serves both equipment manufacturers and end users with unparalleled technical knowledge!
SunTorr
Troy Pettit, COO of TechSource Systems, revolutionized commercial freeze-drying with his exceptional automation programming and electrical design expertise! His innovative technology forms the backbone of TechSource's success as a top U.S.-based commercial freeze dryer manufacturer. Troy will share in-depth knowledge of how companies are scaling their freeze-drying businesses and how you can do it too!
TechSource Systems
Jeff holds a B.S. in Food Process Engineering from Purdue. He developed non-chocolate confections at Hershey, then provided technical support at Cerestar/Cargill. At Ferrara Pan, he led R&D, improved gummy recipes, and helped create Nerds Clusters. In 2022, he started Lucky Teapot Consulting, developing nutraceutical confections and advising companies
Lucky Teapot Consulting
Matt Graunke, sales and marketing manager at Parker Freeze Dry, brings extensive commercial freeze-drying expertise to our event! Matt educates professionals on scaling their businesses with Parker's equipment. Don't miss his invaluable insights on transitioning from small-scale to commercial freeze-drying operations!
Parker Freeze Dry
Levi Weischedel is an innovative marketing consultant and creative partner for the Freeze Dried Marketing agency. As a dynamic video producer, his refreshing approach creates strategies that deliver results while keeping the process enjoyable and effective!
Freeze Dried Marketing
Richard DeLong is a pioneering force in floral freeze-drying technology with 35+ years of industry mastery! After founding Botanique in 1989, his innovation transformed preservation methods industry-wide. Richard's science education background and entrepreneurial vision will be an exciting topic for the summit.
Sean B. Jones, CEO and Co-Founder of Foodynamics, brings over 30 years of executive leadership to the premium freeze-dried pet food industry. Sean has built a family-operated business specializing in private label manufacturing of high-quality treats for cats and dogs, transforming his passion into action.
Limited Availability – Only 120 Spots!
We’re keeping this event intimate to ensure high-value interactions and quality discussions. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the first-ever gathering of its kind.