Schedule Overview
Mark your calendars forIFT FIRST: Annual Event and Expo, July 14 - 17, 2024
You don’t want to miss this year’s event happening at McCormick Place in Chicago. You’ll experience three riveting days of scientific sessions, business education, networking opportunities, and one of the best food and ingredient shows in North America. Preview the schedule below for highlights but check back regularly for updates.
IFT FIRST Mobile App
Plan your IFT FIRST Experience. Download the official IFT FIRST App to get logistical information you need to make the most of your experience. View all FIRST programming and socials; Build your personalized schedule; Find and save exhibitors; Get real-time event notifications and more.
NOTE: All times represent Central Time. Schedule is subject to change.
Friday, July 14
| Time | Description |
|---|---|
| 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm | Exhibitor Registration - Badge Pickup: McCormick Place Convention Center |
Saturday, July 15
| Time | Description |
|---|---|
| 8:00 am – 4:00 pm | Short Courses (Hyatt Regency Chicago) |
| 9:00 am – 5:00 pm | Exhibitor and Attendee Registration - Badge Pickup: McCormick Place Convention Center |
Sunday, July 16
| Time | Description |
|---|---|
| 8:00 am – 5:00 pm | Exhibitor and Attendee Registration - Badge Pickup McCormick Place Convention Center |
| 8:00 am – 4:00 pm | Short Courses (Hyatt Regency Chicago) |
| 10:00 am – 7:30 pm | IFT FIRST Program Begins |
| 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm | First Timers Session for Students |
| 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm | Awards Celebration Ceremony |
| 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm | Awards Celebration Reception |
Monday, July 17
| Time | Description |
|---|---|
| 6:00 am – 8:00 am | Feeding Tomorrow Fun Run + Fitness Fundraiser |
| 7:00 am – 5:00 pm | Exhibitor and Attendee Registration - Badge Pickup: McCormick Place Convention Center |
| 8:15 am – 9:45 am | Keynote Session |
| 10:00 am – 5:00 pm | Expo Open |
| 11:15 am – 5:00 pm | Featured Sessions |
| 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm | Networking & Social Events (Hyatt Regency Chicago) |
Tuesday, July 18
| Time | Description |
|---|---|
| 8:00 am – 5:00 pm | Exhibitor and Attendee Registration - Badge Pickup: McCormick Place Convention Center |
| 8:30 am – 9:30 am | Keynote Session |
| 10:00 am – 5:00 pm | Expo Open |
| 11:15 am – 2:00 pm | Featured Sessions |
| 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm | IFTSA Closing Ceremony |
Wednesday, July 19
| Time | Description |
|---|---|
| 8:00 am – 4:30 pm | Exhibitor and Attendee Registration - Badge Pickup: McCormick Place Convention Center |
| 10:30 am – 11:15 am | Keynote Session |
| 10:00 am – 4:00 pm | Expo Open |
| 10:30 am – 2:00 pm | Innovation Lab |
| 4:00 pm | IFT FIRST Closes |