Braindate @ IFT FIRST

Why is Braindate different from networking?
Braindate will connect you with colleagues you wouldn’t have met otherwise.

Braindates are one-on-one or small group topic-driven conversations that you book with other IFT FIRST participants. They’re the best way to meet with, learn from, and have useful discussions with new people in the science and business of food.

Getting to know people at events can be difficult: time is limited, and trying to network can feel uncomfortable. With Braindate, you search or create topics you want to discuss on your time, so that you can have more authentic conversations with new people who share common interests. It gives you direct access to the collective knowledge and experiences of your fellow attendee.

How does it work for In-Person Attendees?
You can jump start your schedule by accessing the Braindate platform through the FIRST Online Experience BEFORE you arrive in Chicago. Or, you can visit the Braindate Lounge at Destination IFT where a concierge will get you started. You can also access the Braindate feature through the IFT FIRST app. When you access Braindate, you will create or select a topic of interest in the Topic Market. Attendees then request times to meet up with the topic creator for a Braindate. Once the proposed time is accepted, you meet them in the Braindate Lounge where you’ll be escorted to your reserved table.

How does it work for Online Attendees?
Access Braindates through the IFT FIRST Online Experience. You’ll have the opportunity to watch a brief Braindate video to get you started. When you access Braindate, you will create or select a topic of interest in the Topic Market. Attendees then request times to meet up with the topic creator for a Braindate. Once the proposed time is accepted, you will meet them in the Braindate Lounge for an in-person Braindate or you will meet them via the Braindate online platform for your virtual Braindate.

Hybrid Braindates!
In-person attendees can Braindate virtual attendees and vice versa through teleconference from your personal mobile devices. Hybrid braindates are for 1:1 only.

Pro tip:

• Be proactive: set up topics and send invitations to people outside of your circles and industry.
• The group braindate format is best if you’d like to hear multiple perspectives on a single topic.

NOTE: Braindate is available to Full Access Attendees only. Exhibitor registrants cannot access.