The Duke University and University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill chapters of the Good Food Institute’s Alt Protein Project are hosting the first-ever student-led alternative proteins conference in the United States on Friday, April 14 at Duke University.

The conference is focused on the idea that alternative proteins should become mainstream food products in the future. It will feature keynotes by Ethan Brown (CEO, Beyond Meat) and T.K. Pillan (Founder of Veggie Grill and PowerPlant Partners), panel discussions, and a pitch competition where student teams present business ideas to address challenges that the industry is facing. 

Interested students can submit their business ideas through this form by March 17, 2023. Finalists will have the opportunity to present at the conference to a panel of judges from venture capital firms and a live audience. Winners will be offered a cash prize as well as mentorship by industry experts to launch their business (if interested)!

Undergraduate and graduate students of all backgrounds, professional experiences, and academic fields are encouraged to participate. Interested students can reach out to Vivek Venkatraghvan (vivek.v@duke.edu), Caitlin Mason (caitlin.mason@duke.edu), or Daniel Shapiro (daniel.m.shapiro@duke.edu) with any questions.