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Upcoming Events
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Upcoming Events •
Mark Your Calendars
Our calendar is brimming with exciting opportunities tailored for professionals, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts passionate about the natural CPG industry here in Bend. Join us at these engaging events to connect, learn, and contribute to the flourishing community of conscious businesses.
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Women in CPG February Meet-Up
February 25th Meet-Up
Topic: Mission & Storytelling
Guides: Susan Strible of Susan Strible Consulting / Lieve Maas of Bright Light Graphics
What to Bring: Bring your mission and values statements as well as your brand/about story.
Hosted by Barb Myers of Fixa Foods
9:00-9:45
CPG Leaders Coffee
Are you a CPG founder, or do you work in a CPG business? This is a time to connect with each other.
9:45-10:00
CPG Leaders & Industry Partners Networking
Time for all CPG leaders and adjacent partners to mingle and connect.
10:00-11:00
Think Tank
Think Tank is a time where anyone can ask questions and get feedback on a specific topic. We will have expert guides to give insight as well as support from the entire group.
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Monthly Happy Hour
Cultivate Bend Monthly Happy Hour
First Tuesday of Every Month!
MARCH 4TH HAPPY HOUR
No agenda, just show up, buy your own beverage, and have fun connecting with others in the industry!
$1 OFF ALL BEVERAGES
No registration required!
Thanks to our contributing sponsor Crux Fermentation Project
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Ask The Experts: HDFFA
Ask The Experts
Ready to Launch or Grow Your Brand at the Farmer’s Market?
The farmers market isn’t just a place to sell—it’s where brands are born. Whether you’re an aspiring food entrepreneur, a seasoned vendor, or a farmer/rancher looking to expand your reach, this event is your roadmap to success. Join us for an insightful panel discussion with industry experts who have been in your shoes and know what it takes to grow.
What You’ll Gain
✔ Proven Strategies: Learn how to test, launch, and grow your brand at the market.
✔ Insider Insights: Hear from veteran vendors and fresh faces about what works (and what doesn’t).
✔ Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow vendors, market managers, and food industry leaders who can help you move forward.
✔ Real Talk, Real Solutions: From logistics to marketing, pricing to customer engagement, ask your burning questions and get expert advice.
Meet the Experts
MODERATORS
Shawn Theriot (Systm Foods & Cultivate Bend)
Ann Pistacchi-Peck (HDFFA & Bend Farmers Market)
PANELISTS
Lauren Rasmussen (Fibonacci Farms) – Veteran Ag Vendor
Zoey Oquist (The Crow’s Croft) – Newer Ranch Vendor
Jeff Akers (Bohemian Roastery & Worthy Farmers Market) – Veteran CPG Vendor
Barb Myers (Fixa Foods) – Newer CPG Vendor
Who Should Attend?
✔ Farmers market vendors & staff – Whether you’re new or experienced, get fresh ideas to boost your business.
✔ Aspiring entrepreneurs – Thinking about launching a product? Learn how the farmers market can be your proving ground.
✔ Farmers & ranchers – Expand your sales, build customer relationships, and connect with food industry pros.
✔ HDFFA partners & food enthusiasts – Get inspired and support the local food ecosystem!
Why This Matters
Central Oregon’s farmers markets are more than pop-ups—they’re launchpads for brands, testing grounds for products, and vital hubs for local food. Whether you grow, make, or sell food, understanding the business side of markets can help you scale faster and smarter.
Join Us!
This isn’t just another panel—it’s a chance to ask questions, share challenges, and build connections with people who truly get it. Don’t miss out on this interactive, engaging, and high-value conversation designed to help you turn your booth into a thriving brand.
RSVP Now – Space is limited! Secure your spot today.
About HDFFA:
The High Desert Food and Farm Alliance (HDFFA) believes everyone deserves good food. We service that belief through our programming pillars: support for local farms, ranches and local food businesses, increasing food access to nutritious, locally produced food for our Central Oregon neighbors experiencing food insecurity; and providing food-systems education to community members. We provide services to 65,000 people throughout the Central Oregon region.
Ann Pistacchi-Peck
Ann Pistacchi-Peck is grateful to get to live her passion for local food systems every day as the Program Director at the High Desert Food and Farm Alliance, the manager of the Downtown Bend Farmers Market, and a community-member champion of initiatives that uplift farmers, nourish communities, and promote the economic viability of small businesses in Central Oregon.
Lauren Rasmussen
Lauren Rasmussen is co-owner of Fibonacci Farm located in the Mountain View neighborhood of Bend. The farm grows produce and flowers which is sold through a 200 person CSA that is split with another neighboring farm and also through the Bend Farmer's Market. Before entering the farming industry, Lauren gained extensive business management, customer service, visual merchandising and marketing experience in Portland, OR and also New York City.
Zoey Oquist
Zoey Oquist is the owner of The Crow’s Croft, where she raises high-quality, pasture-raised pork on a natural, non-GMO, corn and soy free diet. Her deep affection for pigs shines through in her work, valuing their unique personalities and essential role on her farm. Beyond livestock management, she crafts lard-based body products, honoring time-tested traditions and natural skincare. Blending artisanal craftsmanship with sustainable agriculture.
Jeff Akers
Jeff Akers is a native Central Oregonian with a background in farming, construction, pasta and coffee. The blending of those four industries brought to life Bohemian Roastery, Central Oregon's only wood-fire coffee roasting company. Jeff and his family, Shelley, Jacob and Dominic have been calling farmers markets home every summer, since 2017. This spring, with the help from many passionate and committed people in our community, Jeff is starting a new market on the east side, Worthy Farmers Market. This market opens April 27th and will showcase 30 of Oregon's top producers.
Barb Myers
Barb Myers enjoyed 20 years in the creative industry and education before diving right into the CPG world. She founded Fixa Foods, makers of plant-based nut dips that turn ordinary ingredients into amazing meals, making healthy cooking both simple and delicious. She looks forward to her second year at local farmers markets and loves the Central Oregon food community.
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Women in CPG March Meet-Up
March 18th Meet-Up
Topic: Brand Story
Guides: TBD
What to Bring: TBD
Hosted by Su Embree & Meghan Toso
9:00-9:45
CPG Leaders Coffee
Are you a CPG founder, or do you work in a CPG business? This is a time to connect with each other.
9:45-10:00
CPG Leaders & Industry Partners Networking
Time for all CPG leaders and adjacent partners to mingle and connect.
10:00-11:00
Brand Story
Brand Story is a time when a CPG leader will inspire us on how she built her business. See overview for each months featured brand.
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Women in CPG April Meet-Up
April 29th Meet-Up
Topic: Distribution & Logistics: DTC, Retail, B2B
Guides: Katie Horgan of Bravo CPG / Dana Black of Collective Pallet
What to Bring: Bring your questions about distribution channels and logistics
Hosted by Barb Meyers of Fixa Foods
9:00-9:45
CPG Leaders Coffee
Are you a CPG founder, or do you work in a CPG business? This is a time to connect with each other.
9:45-10:00
CPG Leaders & Industry Partners Networking
Time for all CPG leaders and adjacent partners to mingle and connect.
10:00-11:00
Think Tank
Think Tank is a time where anyone can ask questions and get feedback on a specific topic. We will have expert guides to give insight as well as support from the entire group.
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Women in CPG May Meet-Up
May 20th Meet-Up
Topic: Branding, Content & Social Media
Guides: Darlene Veenhuizen of DASH Content Collective / Shannon Hinderberger of DASH Content Collective / Amanda Long of Amanda Photographic
What to Bring: Bring your questions about effective content, photography, and video
Hosted by Barb Meyers of Fixa Foods
9:00-9:45
CPG Leaders Coffee
Are you a CPG founder, or do you work in a CPG business? This is a time to connect with each other.
9:45-10:00
CPG Leaders & Industry Partners Networking
Time for all CPG leaders and adjacent partners to mingle and connect.
10:00-11:00
Think Tank
Think Tank is a time where anyone can ask questions and get feedback on a specific topic. We will have expert guides to give insight as well as support from the entire group.
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Monthly Happy Hour
RESCHEDULED Cultivate Bend Monthly Happy Hour
Thursday, February 13th
No agenda, just show up, buy your own beverage, and have fun connecting with others in the industry!
$1 OFF ALL BEVERAGES
No registration required!
Thanks to our contributing sponsor Crux Fermentation Project
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2025 Kickoff Party!
Jumpstart your 2025 with fresh inspiration, real connections, and a head start on your goals—all while enjoying an evening filled with amazing food, drinks, and prizes!
Here’s the best part: Attending isn’t just about a great night; it’s your chance to join Bend’s most vibrant CPG community, where growth, collaboration, and opportunity come naturally. Whether you're renewing your membership or signing up for the first time, this event makes the decision a no-brainer.
Here’s what you get by attending:
🎤 An Inspirational Talk You’ll Actually Use
Hear from Elliot Begoun, an industry veteran who has helped countless businesses grow with practical strategies you can apply immediately.🎁 Raffle Prizes That Wow
Get a chance to win valuable prizes (including an extra ticket for signing up as a new member!).🍽️ Food & Drinks Included
Because nothing sparks connection like great conversation over even better food.🤝 Networking That Matters
Meet like-minded professionals, potential collaborators, and your new support network.
If you’ve been waiting for the right time to join Cultivate Bend, this is it. Sign up or renew at the event and get:
An Extra Raffle Ticket – Double your chances to win amazing prizes!
Member Guide – Unlock the full potential of your membership with this handy cheat sheet.
Access to the Member Slack Channel – Instantly connect with our community for year-round support and collaboration.
This isn’t just a party—it’s a chance to start the year surrounded by people who inspire, support, and encourage you. Whether you’re a member or thinking about joining, we can’t wait to see you there.
👉 Reserve your spot now and let’s grow together.
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Office Hours with Elliot Begoun
Personalized Advice from a Natural Products Expert
Office Hours with Elliot Begoun
Prior to the Kickoff Party on Tuesday, January 28th, industry leader Elliot Begoun will be available for one-on-one meetings to answer questions and share his expertise. Don’t miss this invaluable opportunity!
HOW IT WORKS
6 x 20 minute sessions are available by reservation between 2-4pm at The Haven in Bend. This opportunity is on a first-come, first-serve basis, so sign up quickly!
(Please note that these office hours are available to Cultivate Bend Members only. Learn more about memberships here.)
Meet Elliot Begoun
Founder of TIG Brands, Author, Advisor
Elliot Begoun is a 30-year industry veteran, author, and the Founder of TIG, a 1:1 customized alternative accelerator focused on helping emerging natural product brands grow. TIG works with its entrepreneurs to build nimble, capital efficient, resilient brands that become tardigrades not unicorns. Catch him at FoodBytes, the Hirshberg Entrepreneurship Institute, the Natural Products Business School, and find his articles in publications such as the Huffington Post, SmartBrief, and New Hope.
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Monthly Happy Hour
Cultivate Bend Monthly Happy Hour
First Tuesday of Every Month!
JANUARY 7TH HAPPY HOUR
No agenda, just show up, buy your own beverage, and have fun connecting with others in the industry!
$1 OFF ALL BEVERAGES
No registration required!
Thanks to our contributing sponsor Crux Fermentation Project
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Monthly Happy Hour
Cultivate Bend Monthly Happy Hour
First Tuesday of Every Month!
DECEMBER 3RD HAPPY HOUR
No agenda, just show up, buy your own beverage, and have fun connecting with others in the industry!
$1 OFF ALL BEVERAGES
No registration required!
Thanks to our contributing sponsor Crux Fermentation Project
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Women in CPG November Meet-Up
November 26th Meet-Up
Join us for a vibrant morning meet-up designed for Central Oregon Women in CPG. This casual in-person event promises to be an inspiring and collaborative gathering. These FREE events meet the last Tuesday of every month at The Haven.
Discover the power of networking and connecting with fellow women professionals in the CPG industry. This event provides a unique opportunity to exchange ideas, discuss challenges, gain insights, and build meaningful relationships. Whether you're a seasoned expert or just starting your journey, Cultivate Bend's Women in CPG Meet-Up is the perfect platform to nurture your professional growth. The group is open to all marginalized genders who are comfortable in a space that centers the experiences of women leading CPG and Natural Products companies in Central Oregon.
Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to expand your network, share experiences, and learn from the incredible women shaping the CPG landscape in Central Oregon. Mark your calendars and get ready to be inspired!
Hosted by Barb Myers of Fixa Foods
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Monthly Happy Hour
Cultivate Bend Monthly Happy Hour
First Tuesday of Every Month!
Rescheduled this month to Tue 11/12
NOVEMBER 12TH HAPPY HOUR
No agenda, just show up, buy your own beverage, and have fun connecting with others in the industry!
$1 OFF ALL BEVERAGES
No registration required!
Thanks to our contributing sponsor Crux Fermentation Project
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Women in CPG October Meet-Up
October 29th Meet-Up
Join us for a vibrant morning meet-up designed for Central Oregon Women in CPG. This casual in-person event promises to be an inspiring and collaborative gathering. These FREE events meet the last Tuesday of every month at The Haven.
Discover the power of networking and connecting with fellow women professionals in the CPG industry. This event provides a unique opportunity to exchange ideas, discuss challenges, gain insights, and build meaningful relationships. Whether you're a seasoned expert or just starting your journey, Cultivate Bend's Women in CPG Meet-Up is the perfect platform to nurture your professional growth. The group is open to all marginalized genders who are comfortable in a space that centers the experiences of women leading CPG and Natural Products companies in Central Oregon.
Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to expand your network, share experiences, and learn from the incredible women shaping the CPG landscape in Central Oregon. Mark your calendars and get ready to be inspired!
Hosted by Barb Myers of Fixa Foods
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Monthly Happy Hour
Cultivate Bend Monthly Happy Hour
First Tuesday of Every Month!
OCTOBER 1ST HAPPY HOUR
No agenda, just show up, buy your own beverage, and have fun connecting with others in the industry!
$1 OFF ALL BEVERAGES
No registration required!
Thanks to our contributing sponsor Crux Fermentation Project
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2024 Annual Members Meeting
Dear Cultivate Bend Members,
We are excited to invite you to our inaugural Annual Members Meeting, where we’ll reflect on the past year and look ahead to the future. Join us to hear from our Operations Manager, Board President and other Board members leading key areas such as Finance, Events, Sponsorships, Marketing, and Educational Programming. We'll review our achievements, discuss upcoming plans, and introduce the next wave of board members elected by YOU. This meeting is a chance to connect, share insights, and ensure we continue to serve your needs as we build a vibrant ecosystem for the natural products CPG industry across Central Oregon.
Meeting Agenda
Introduction of New Board Members
Department Updates & Visions for 2025
Town Hall Q&A Session*
*an opportunity for Members to ask questions and offer up suggestions
All members are welcome to attend our Annual Members Meeting. We strongly encourage you to also participate in the Ask the Experts event prior to the start of this meeting.
This is a FREE Event
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Ask The Experts
Have your essential business questions answered by experts. The sessions will be Question and Answer format so come ready to ask the questions most important to you.
Event Topics Include
Leveraging AI
Consumer Research
Schedule of Events
5:00-5:45 PM
Mingle, Network, Snacks and Beverages5:45-6:15 PM
Introductions & Topic 1- Leveraging AI with Justin Coats6:15-6:40 PM
Topic 2 - Consumer Research with Sara Schor
Meet the Experts
Justin Coats
CoFounder & CEO – Neesh.AI
Justin Coats, a dynamic force in AI integration and personal development, brings a unique perspective shaped by diverse experiences in technology, teaching, and entrepreneurship. His journey from the Marine Corps to pioneering in the AI space has equipped him with invaluable insights into the challenges and potential of AI in modern society. Passionate about empowering learners, Justin specializes in translating complex AI concepts into accessible, practical skills, fostering innovation and efficiency.
Sara Schor
Principal – Schor Insights & Strategy
Sara Schor is passionate about identifying and dimensionalizing consumer insights and using them to build and communicate compelling brand and product stories. Prior to creating her strategic insights consultancy, Sara spent 16 years at Sterling Brands as the EVP of Strategy & Insights where she worked on research and insights initiatives with a wide range of well-known companies including JP Morgan Chase, Google, M&M Mars, NBC Universal (Bravo), and Unilever (Dove).
This is a FREE Event for Cultivate Bend Members!
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Women in CPG September Meet-Up
September 24th Meet-Up
Join us for a vibrant morning meet-up designed for Central Oregon Women in CPG. This casual in-person event promises to be an inspiring and collaborative gathering. These FREE events meet the last Tuesday of every month at The Haven.
Discover the power of networking and connecting with fellow women professionals in the CPG industry. This event provides a unique opportunity to exchange ideas, discuss challenges, gain insights, and build meaningful relationships. Whether you're a seasoned expert or just starting your journey, Cultivate Bend's Women in CPG Meet-Up is the perfect platform to nurture your professional growth. The group is open to all marginalized genders who are comfortable in a space that centers the experiences of women leading CPG and Natural Products companies in Central Oregon.
Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to expand your network, share experiences, and learn from the incredible women shaping the CPG landscape in Central Oregon. Mark your calendars and get ready to be inspired!
Hosted by Barb Myers of Fixa Foods
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Monthly Happy Hour
Cultivate Bend Monthly Happy Hour
First Tuesday of Every Month!
SEPTEMBER 3RD HAPPY HOUR
No agenda, just show up, buy your own beverage, and have fun connecting with others in the industry!
$1 OFF ALL BEVERAGES
No registration required!
Thanks to our contributing sponsor Crux Fermentation Project
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Women in CPG August Meet-Up
August 27th Meet-Up
Join us for a vibrant morning meet-up designed for Central Oregon Women in CPG. This casual in-person event promises to be an inspiring and collaborative gathering. These FREE events meet the last Tuesday of every month at The Haven.
Discover the power of networking and connecting with fellow women professionals in the CPG industry. This event provides a unique opportunity to exchange ideas, discuss challenges, gain insights, and build meaningful relationships. Whether you're a seasoned expert or just starting your journey, Cultivate Bend's Women in CPG Meet-Up is the perfect platform to nurture your professional growth. The group is open to all marginalized genders who are comfortable in a space that centers the experiences of women leading CPG and Natural Products companies in Central Oregon.
Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to expand your network, share experiences, and learn from the incredible women shaping the CPG landscape in Central Oregon. Mark your calendars and get ready to be inspired!
Hosted by Barb Myers of Fixa Foods
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Monthly Happy Hour
Cultivate Bend Monthly Happy Hour
First Tuesday of Every Month!
AUGUST 6TH HAPPY HOUR
No agenda, just show up, buy your own beverage, and have fun connecting with others in the industry!
$1 OFF ALL BEVERAGES
No registration required!
Thanks to our contributing sponsor Crux Fermentation Project
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Women in CPG July Meet-Up
July 30th Meet-Up
Join us for a vibrant morning meet-up designed for Central Oregon Women in CPG. This casual in-person event promises to be an inspiring and collaborative gathering. These FREE events meet the last Tuesday of every month at The Haven.
Discover the power of networking and connecting with fellow women professionals in the CPG industry. This event provides a unique opportunity to exchange ideas, discuss challenges, gain insights, and build meaningful relationships. Whether you're a seasoned expert or just starting your journey, Cultivate Bend's Women in CPG Meet-Up is the perfect platform to nurture your professional growth. The group is open to all marginalized genders who are comfortable in a space that centers the experiences of women leading CPG and Natural Products companies in Central Oregon.
Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to expand your network, share experiences, and learn from the incredible women shaping the CPG landscape in Central Oregon. Mark your calendars and get ready to be inspired!
Hosted by Barb Myers of Fixa Foods
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Monthly Happy Hour
Cultivate Bend Monthly Happy Hour
First Tuesday of Every Month!
JULY 2ND HAPPY HOUR
No agenda, just show up, buy your own beverage, and have fun connecting with others in the industry!
$1 OFF ALL BEVERAGES
No registration required!
Thanks to our contributing sponsor Crux Fermentation Project
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Cultivate Bend Summer Party
Kick off Summer with us on June 26th at Alpenglow Park for Cultivate Bend’s Summer Party!
Join us for food and drinks, games, music, networking, and member product booths. Families are welcome and we encourage you to bring some comfy chairs and blankets!
This is a Free Event for Cultivate Bend Members!
Donations & Vendor Booths
Interested in donating product to the event or having a booth for selling or sampling your product? Contact us!
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Women in CPG June Meet-Up
June 25th Meet-Up
Join us for a vibrant morning meet-up designed for Central Oregon Women in CPG. This casual in-person event promises to be an inspiring and collaborative gathering. These FREE events meet the last Tuesday of every month at The Haven.
Discover the power of networking and connecting with fellow women professionals in the CPG industry. This event provides a unique opportunity to exchange ideas, discuss challenges, gain insights, and build meaningful relationships. Whether you're a seasoned expert or just starting your journey, Cultivate Bend's Women in CPG Meet-Up is the perfect platform to nurture your professional growth. The group is open to all marginalized genders who are comfortable in a space that centers the experiences of women leading CPG and Natural Products companies in Central Oregon.
Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to expand your network, share experiences, and learn from the incredible women shaping the CPG landscape in Central Oregon. Mark your calendars and get ready to be inspired!
Hosted by Barb Myers of Fixa Foods
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Monthly Happy Hour
Cultivate Bend Monthly Happy Hour
First Tuesday of Every Month!
JUNE 4TH HAPPY HOUR
No agenda, just show up, buy your own beverage, and have fun connecting with others in the industry!
$1 OFF ALL BEVERAGES
No registration required!
Thanks to our contributing sponsor Crux Fermentation Project
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Channeling Success: Crafting Your CPG Multi-Channel Sales Strategy
In the competitive landscape of Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG), navigating the myriad of sales channels can make or break a business. Having an effective sales channel strategy is vital for reaching target markets, maximizing revenue, and securing valuable shelf space.
Join us at our upcoming event as Kyle Krull - Senior Director of Sales at Kettle & Fire - dives into the intricacies of pitching to retailers and explores proven strategies for success.
Following will be a moderated panel discussion with industry leaders bringing to light their expertise on how to approach each channel as well as the opportunity to get answers to your specific questions.
In true Cultivate Bend style there will be ample time to network with like-minded professionals and enjoy some tasty food and beverages.
Come join us and fuel your entrepreneurial spirit!
Presenter
Kyle Krull
Senior Director of Sales at Kettle & Fire
Kyle is an experienced Senior Sales Director with a demonstrated history of meeting and exceeding goals in the Natural CPG Industry. He is skilled in Key Account Acquisition, Data Analysis, Distributor Management, Promotional Planning, and Broker/Merchandiser Management. Kyle is passionate about utilizing his decade-plus of CPG experience to grow and scale Regenerative CPG Brands.
Discussion Panelists
Alisha Runckel
VP of eCommerce and Growth at SYSTM Foods
Alisha is an entrepreneurial eCommerce leader with over 15 years of experience in eCommerce and marketing. Working with companies of various sizes, sectors, and ownership structures has afforded her vast experience in multiple functional areas. Alisha has a demonstrated track record in direct-to-consumer CPG, including eCommerce, omnichannel go-to-market strategies, retention marketing, customer lifecycle programming, conversion optimization, process development, program/project management, revenue forecasting, and performance marketing.
Mateo Sluder
Founder and Sales Strategist at Weave
Mateo Sluder is a seasoned sales leader with over a decade of experience in the natural products CPG and beverage industry, known for his dynamic, unique and results-oriented approach. As VP of Sales at Guayaki Yerba Mate, he played a pivotal role in expanding the team from 40 to over 300 employees and tripling revenue to $72M. During his 11 years at Guayaki, he received extensive mentorship from many great leaders, including one of CPG’s most visionary sales strategists. With this support, he gained deep experience in how to successfully navigate many channels of trade, from Natural to Grocery to Convenience and Food Service. His greatest passions in CPG center around the nuances of successfully introducing new categories and helping early-stage founders make their dreams come true.
Natalie Gibbens
Senior Manager of Foodservice at Voyage Foods
Natalie is a seasoned CPG professional with 8 years of expertise specializing in foodservice and strategic ingredient sales. While working for emerging CPG brands, Natalie's career spans across commercial and non-commercial foodservice accounts. She has had success launching products and working closely with national and regional restaurant chains, group purchasing organizations, contract management groups, broadline distributors, and colleges and universities.
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Women in CPG May Meet-Up
May 28th Meet-Up
Join us for a vibrant morning meet-up designed for Central Oregon Women in CPG. This casual in-person event promises to be an inspiring and collaborative gathering. These FREE events meet the last Tuesday of every month at The Haven.
Discover the power of networking and connecting with fellow women professionals in the CPG industry. This event provides a unique opportunity to exchange ideas, discuss challenges, gain insights, and build meaningful relationships. Whether you're a seasoned expert or just starting your journey, Cultivate Bend's Women in CPG Meet-Up is the perfect platform to nurture your professional growth. The group is open to all marginalized genders who are comfortable in a space that centers the expriences of women leading CPG and Natrual Products compainies in Central Oregon.
Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to expand your network, share experiences, and learn from the incredible women shaping the CPG landscape in Central Oregon. Mark your calendars and get ready to be inspired!
Hosted by Barb Myers of Fixa Foods
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EDCO’s Central Oregon PubTalk
EDCO’s Central Oregon PubTalk is a happy hour aimed at bringing together different facets of the business community in one place to network, share ideas and further local businesses.
4:30 pm Networking | 5:30 pm Program
Program Agenda:
Keynote Presentation: Mark Drummond, Advisor & Investor, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Mixed Reality, WorldStage
Company Pitch: Entwyne
James Kelly, Co-Founder and CEO
Company Update: CEOX
Luann Abrams, Founder
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HEI: Tales From the Trenches
The Hirshberg Entrepreneurship Institute is BACK with a lineup of webinars for your learning pleasure. Come, network, engage, and learn from entrepreneurs who've walked the walk. First to share her journey is Gail Becker of Caulipower on May 15th.
RSVP for Tales from the Trenches TODAY!
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Made in Bend Tour: EDCO
Economic Development for Central Oregon (EDCO) invites you to explore the innovative businesses propelling our community forward. The Made in Bend Tour offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes peek into the operations and strategies of four local businesses that are shaping our region's economic future.
Agenda
10:30 AM
Meet at Brian's Cabinets for welcome remarks and group formation10:45 AM
Walking tours begin - Representatives from No Bake Cookie Company, Humm Kombucha, Brian's Cabinets, and Crux Fermentation Project will peel back the curtain on their business strategies, offering insights into their supply chains, manufacturing, employment, and business growth.12:45 PM
Catered lunch and an economic development update from EDCO2:00 PM
Adjourn
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect with the businesses and leaders at the forefront of Central Oregon’s economic expansion. Space is limited, and interest is high. Secure your spot today. Space is limited!
Sponsorship Opportunities are available. Reach out to Larry Holeman at Larry@edcoinfo.com for additional information.
Key Legal Updates & Best Practices for Oregon Employers in 2024
Are you an Oregon business owner or manager?
Stay up to date on the latest employment laws and best practices at this informative seminar presented by Chris Morehead, Partner at Tonkon Torp’s Labor & Employment Practice Group.
What You’ll Learn:
Non-Compete & Non-Solicitation Agreements
Understand how to use these agreements to protect your business while staying compliant.Severance Agreements
Learn how to strategically use severance agreements for smoother terminations.Wage Transparency & Equity Laws
Explore the latest laws and best practices for fair and compliant wages.Hot Topics
Get insights on professional conduct policies, minimum wage increases, and other trending issues.
Benefits of Attending
Gain valuable legal expertise from industry professionals.
Network with other Oregon business owners and HR managers.
Learn how to navigate legal complexities and create a positive work environment.
Hosted by: BBSI-Central Oregon & Tonkon Torp
Speaker: Chris Morehead, Partner at Tonkon Torp’s Labor & Employment Practice Group
About BBSI Central Oregon
We provide services such as HR, payroll, workers’ comp, and benefits administration through our local support model; matching you with a team of professionals in your community. https://www.bbsi.com/bend
About Chris Morehead & Tonkon Torp
Chris is a partner in Tonkon Torp’s Labor & Employment Practice Group and based in Central Oregon. His practice focuses on litigating and advising on employment matters for companies ranging from mom-and-pop shops to global Fortune 50 employers. https://tonkon.com/people/christopher-morehead/
RESERVE YOUR SPOT FOR FREE TICKETS
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Monthly Happy Hour
Cultivate Bend Monthly Happy Hour
First Tuesday of Every Month!
MAY 7TH HAPPY HOUR
No agenda, just show up, buy your own beverage, and have fun connecting with others in the industry!
$1 OFF ALL BEVERAGES
No registration required!
Thanks to our contributing sponsor Crux Fermentation Project
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Women in CPG April Meet-Up
April 30th Meet-Up
Join us for a vibrant morning meet-up designed for Central Oregon Women in CPG. This casual in-person event promises to be an inspiring and collaborative gathering. These FREE events meet the last Tuesday of every month at The Haven.
Discover the power of networking and connecting with fellow women professionals in the CPG industry. This event provides a unique opportunity to exchange ideas, discuss challenges, gain insights, and build meaningful relationships. Whether you're a seasoned expert or just starting your journey, Cultivate Bend's Women in CPG Meet-Up is the perfect platform to nurture your professional growth. The group is open to all marginalized genders who are comfortable in a space that centers the experiences of women leading CPG and Natural Products companies in Central Oregon.
Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to expand your network, share experiences, and learn from the incredible women shaping the CPG landscape in Central Oregon. Mark your calendars and get ready to be inspired!
Hosted by Barb Myers of Fixa Foods
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An Intimate Conversation with Gary Hirshberg & Industry Experts
An Intimate Conversation with Gary Hirshberg & Industry Experts
Date: Monday, April 29th
Time: 11:30am - 2:30pm
Location: 1000 NW Wall Street, Suite 220
📍 Above the Patagonia store. Enter off of Wall Street.
Cultivate Bend is thrilled to announce a special hybrid virtual/in-person event with luminaries in the natural products sector featuring Gary Hirshberg, co-founder and former CEO of Stonyfield Organic Yogurt, and Founder and President of Hirshberg Entrepreneurship Institute.
LUNCH WILL BE PROVIDED
Part 1
Hirshberg will share his entrepreneurial journey building Stonyfield into a leading organic brand, as featured on the "How I Built This," in a keynote presentation delivered with Elliot Begoun of TIG Brands.
Topics Include:
Startup Cash Flow Management
Tips for Raising Capital in Today's Market
You’ll have the opportunity to get your real-world questions answered directly by Hirshberg, Begoun and panelists.
Part 2
Finance Case Study Presentations
See 3 local brands present their case studies live!
Includes Questions & Feedback from Expert Panelists:
Registration Prices:
Early Bird (before 4/19): $40 Cultivate Bend Members; $50 Non-Members
4/20-4/26: $55 Cultivate Bend Members; $65 Non-Members
Registration ends on Friday April 26th at 5pm
About Stonyfield Yogurt
In the early 1980s, two farmers focused on sustainable agriculture had a simple idea - use their homemade organic yogurt as a way to generate funds for their educational farm in New Hampshire. What started as a modest endeavor in 1983 to raise money slowly transformed into an entrepreneurial journey filled with numerous near-fatal challenges. However, against all odds, their fledgling yogurt business managed to persevere and overcome each obstacle it faced. Through resilience and determination, it ultimately blossomed into one of the leading and most recognizable yogurt brands nationwide. From its humble beginnings as a nonprofit side-hustle, it defied expectations to become a major player in the organic foods market.
Thank you to our Sponsors!
Partner Sponsor: Hirshberg Entrepreneurship Institute
Presenting Sponsor: Village Family Capital
Become A Member
Join the community that will help you grow your business!