School Nutrition Industry Conference (SNIC27)
January 11-13, 2027 | Tampa, FL
Connect, collaborate, and discover what's next in school nutrition.
Be at the forefront of progress at SNA’s School Nutrition Industry Conference (SNIC27)—the ultimate hub for innovation, collaboration, and transforming school nutrition.
Important Date Update: Preconference events begin Sunday, January 10, with the main conference running January 11-13.
Registration will open soon!
Event Details
Elevate Your Leadership at SNIC27
Launch into 2027 at SNA’s School Nutrition Industry Conference (SNIC27), January 11-13, 2027, in Tampa, FL. This premier gathering unites visionaries in school nutrition to explore cutting-edge trends and innovations. The conference theme, Every Idea Becomes…, celebrates the creative spirit and forward-thinking solutions that drive progress in school nutrition. It’s about reimagining how we deliver solutions, adapt to changing regulations, and meet the evolving needs of students and families.
Built around the theme Every Idea Becomes… SNIC27 will empower you to:
- Gain expert insights
- Engage in thought-provoking discussions
- Participate in dynamic workshops
- Network with school nutrition operators and industry partners
Location
Tampa Marriott Water Street(opens in new tab)
500 Water Street
Tampa, Florida 33602
Please note: The 2027 conference schedule has shifted by one day. Preconference Workshops and the Welcome Reception will take place on Sunday instead of Saturday, and the Opening General Session will be held on Monday, January 11. The conference will conclude on Wednesday, January 13th. Please plan your travel accordingly.
Questions? Reach out to meetings@schoolnutrition.org.
Registration Details
Full Registration Includes:
Registration Information
Registration Fees
Early Bird Rate (EB): Received on or before 12/04/26
Regular Rate (RR): Received between 12/06/26 and 01/13/27
Do not mail/fax registrations. Registrations will only be accepted online.
| Membership Categories | EB | RR |
| SFS Member/Government Member | $730 | $780 |
| SFS Nonmember | $860 | $910 |
| SFS Retired Member | $730 | $780 |
| Family/Guest* | $680 | $730 |
| Industry Member | $1,080 | $1,130 |
| Industry Nonmember | $1,330 | $1,380 |
| One-Day Registration | $695 | $695 |
*Family/Spouse: Qualification applies to those individuals who are not in the foodservice industry. Contact meetings@schoolnutrition.org to assist with this type of registration.
Registration Details
Full Registration Includes:
Access to all General Sessions and Educational Sessions, Innovative Solution Sessions (FS members only), Industry Education Sessions (Industry members only), Welcome Reception, Networking Lunch, Networking Lunch with Tabletop Showcase, breakfast on Monday and Tuesday, as well as full access to the digital content on the SNIC27 app for up to 30 days post-event. Confirmation of registration will be sent via email immediately upon processing. If you registered others, each individual will receive their own confirmation. If you have mailed payment, please allow up to two business weeks for processing.
Refunds/Cancellations
We’d hate for you to miss the conference, but if you must, cancellations and requests for refunds must be received in writing by December 15, 2026. Refunds will be processed minus a $75 administrative fee. No refunds will be made after December 15, 2026 or for NO-SHOWS. Requests may be submitted via email to meetings@schoolnutrition.org.
Transfers
If you are unable to attend the conference, you may transfer your registration to another individual within the same organization, provided advance written notice is forwarded to meetings@schoolnutrition.org by January 5th. After January 5th, you will be asked to make a change on-site. Please provide your name and the individual’s name to whom you are transferring your registration. No refunds will be made after December 16, 2025, or for NO-SHOWS.
Need to make a change?
If you need to change your registration type or contact information, please email us at meetings@schoolnutrition.org. We’ll be happy to assist you. You can also register a spouse or family member or purchase tickets to an event.
FAME Awards Reception
37th Annual FAME Awards Reception on Monday, January 11
Note: A separate registration is required to attend this event. (Limited availability. Registration information coming soon!
Need to make a change?
If you need to change your registration type or contact information, please email us at meetings@schoolnutrition.org (opens in new tab). We’ll be happy to assist you. You can also register a spouse or family member or purchase tickets to an event.
Will there be an #SNIC27 mobile app?
Yes, scan a QR code on signs onsite to download or search “SNA Events” in the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store after January 5, 20276.
Sponsored by Schwan’s Food Service
Where is SNIC27 being held?
All meeting activities will take place at the Tampa Marriott Watelocated about 9 miles from the Tampa International Airport (TPA). Rooms are available the Tampa Marriott Water Street at a discounted rate of $233/night on a first-come, first-served basis until December 19, 2026. Please note the SNA discounted rate will not be available after the cut-off date of December 19 or prior to that date if the room block is full. Please make your reservations early to take advantage of the discounted rate. All rates are subject to all applicable taxes and assessments.
Location
Tampa Marriott Water Street(opens in new tab)
500 Water Street
Tampa, Florida 33602
What type of educational content will be offered?
In addition to general sessions, education sessions, and roundtable discussions, look out for the following educational highlights.
INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS SESSIONS (Sunday morning and afternoo,n and Monday morning)
- Provide the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue with top industry professionals at three one-hour sessions.
- Companies will present to key decision makers, share more about the solutions they provide, and obtain valuable feedback. Simultaneously, operators will be introduced to the most innovative solutions on the market today.
- Operator attendees do not need to sign up for these in advance. Adding an event to their itinerary on the app does not automatically mean they are signed up for it. Once rooms are full to capacity, we will need to direct attendees to sessions that have space.
These sessions are for operators only–industry members should attend the industry education session offered at the same time.
PRE-CONFERENCE WORKSHOPS (All day Saturday)
Attendees must be registered ahead of time for all pre-cons. Staff will be checking people in as they enter the pre-con room.
CHEF TOURS (Two on Monday Afternoon and one Tuesday morning)
- Gain valuable insight from the Chefs at the Tampa Marriott Water Street(opens in new tab) and tour their kitchens and loading dock setup.
- There is an additional fee for this and attendees must be registered ahead of time for all chef tours. Staff will be checking people in before the tour starts.
EXECUTIVE COACHING SESSIONS (45-minute sessions: Saturday through Tuesday)
- Due to its popularity the past couple of years, SNA is again offering executive coaching sessions at SNIC27. There will be 15 45-minute coaching sessions throughout the conference with International Coaching Federation (ICF) certified coach Jen Lewi, Executive Coach & Career Strategist, Design Your Next Step
- Looking to overcome workplace challenges, determine your next career move, or enhance your leadership skills? Then check out a coaching session!
- There is an additional fee for this and attendees must be registered ahead of time. Registration is very limited, please see the registration portal for availability.
Will I get CEUs for attending?
Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are available for SNIC 2027. Attendees should download the training tracker for their records. This can be used for proof of attendance. CEUs from SNIC27 will be added to members’ accounts a few months after the conference. The training tracker will be one of the resources within the SNA Events app.
Registered Dietitians (RDNs/DTRs) can also earn CPEUs, but must follow a different process and the instruction document will also be available in the SNIC app. More specific questions about CPEUs should be sent to education@schoolnutrition.org.
Will SNIC include any meals?
All events and meals will take place on the property, the Tampa Marriott Water Street (General Sessions, breakouts, and the JW Tampa Water Street (breakfast Tuesday and Wednesday, Patron-Sponsored Networking Lunch, Lunch and Tabletop Showcase, and Chef Tours, unless stated otherwise.
Other than the following, attendees are on their own for meals or other refreshments:
Sunday, January 10
- Welcome Reception, 5:00-6:30 pm at the Tampa Marriott Water Street (opens in new tab). (Hors d’oeuvres and beverages offered).
Monday, January 11
- Patron-Sponsored Networking Lunch, 11:45 am-1:15 pm in HB Plant Ballroom.
- Break, 10:00 am - 10:30 am & 2:30 pm - 3:00 pm in the Grand Ballroom Foyer.
- The FAME Awards, 5:30–7:00 pm, in the Veranda room on the Lobby Level. Brought to you by Basic American Foods. (Registration required)
Tuesday, January 12
- General Mills and Simplot Co. Sponsored Breakfast, 7:30am-8:30am in HB Plant Ballroom.
- Breaks, 10:00am-10:30am & 2:45pm-3:00pm in the Grand Ballroom Foyer.
- Networking Lunch with Tabletop Showcase, 11:45 am- 12:45 pm in HB Plant Ballroom.
Wednesday, January 13
- Breakfast, 7:15 am-8:00 am in Griffin Hall on the HB Plant Ballroom.
What is the dress code for SNIC27?
Business casual is the general dress for this meeting. Please remember to bring a light jacket, sweater, or wrap as meeting rooms can often be chilly.
How can attendees participate in giving back to the host city?
Check back later for volunteer opportunities for attendees to engage in during their free time. These activities allow participants to contribute positively to the local community. In an effort to reduce food waste and support those in need in the local community,
Hotel Accommodations
500 Water Street
Tampa, Florida 33602
(813) 221-4900
The Tampa Marriott Water Street is located 8.3 miles from Tampa International Airport.
Reservation Information
SNA Discounted Room Rates:
$233/night, Single/Double plus applicable taxes & fees
REMINDER:
Conference registration is required to be able to reserve a room within SNA’s discounted hotel room block. After you have registered, the link to secure housing will be provided in your confirmation. School Nutrition Association reserves the right to cancel, without notification, any reservation that does not have a corresponding registration for SNIC 2027.
Rooms are issued on a first-come, first-served basis until December 19, 20256. Please note the SNA discounted rate will not be available after the cut-off date of December 19 or prior to that date if the room block is full. Please make your reservations early to take advantage of the discounted rate. All rates are subject to all applicable taxes and assessments.
Cancellation policy
Reservations must be canceled three (3) days prior to arrival date to avoid a penalty of one night’s room and tax charge.
Travel Information
Air Transportation:
Tampa International Airport (opens in new tab)is the nearest major airport. The airport is about 9 miles from the hotel. When making your airline reservations, feel free to use Corporate Traveler, SNA’s official travel agency. SNA’s dedicated travel manager can be reached at (571) 302-7187 or via email at customersuccess@corporatetraveler.us.
Please note: A $30 convenience/booking fee applies when booking through Corporate Traveler.
Getting to the Hotel
Airport Shuttle Service is NOT provided.
Rideshares & Taxis:
Rideshare and taxi pick-up for passengers flying into Tampa is located at the Red Express Curbside, the Blue Express Curbside, or the SkyCenter One office building remote curbside.
Parking
-
Valet Parking: $55 USD per day
-
Self-Parking: Not available.
Sunday, January 10
Preconference Workshops
Join us early for hands-on workshops designed to help turn promising ideas into practical strategies.
Welcome Reception
Kick off SNIC27 by connecting with peers, sharing ideas, and sparking conversations about how every idea can become something bigger.
Monday, January 11
Innovative Solution Sessions
Discover the newest industry products, services, and equipment that can help boost student participation.
General Sessions
Hear from speakers who will explore creative thinking, spark fresh ideas, and inspire new approaches you can bring back to your organization and school communities.
Patron-Sponsored Networking Lunch
Connect over lunch with fellow attendees and SNA Patrons while building new relationships and exchanging ideas.
Tuesday, January 12
Education Sessions
Explore fresh ideas and timely topics through education sessions that help turn inspiration into action. Check back soon for full details.
Innovative Solution Sessions
Discover the newest industry products, services, and equipment that can help boost student participation.
Networking Lunch and Tabletop Showcase
Enjoy lunch, connect with peers, and visit tabletop exhibits where industry representatives share their newest products and solutions.
General Sessions
Hear from speakers who will explore creative thinking, spark fresh ideas, and inspire new approaches you can bring back to your organization and school communities.
Tuesday, January 13
Education Sessions
Explore fresh ideas and timely topics through education sessions that help turn inspiration into action. Check back soon for full details.
General Sessions
Hear from speakers who will explore creative thinking, spark fresh ideas, and inspire new approaches you can bring back to your organization and school communities.
This format closely mirrors the SNIC schedule layout from last year, with each day getting its own header and the activities listed underneath, making it much easier for attendees to scan.
Innovation Solution Sessions, Network & Engage with Industry Leaders
Join us for three one-hour Innovative Solution Sessions on Monday, January 11 and Tuesday, January 12, where you’ll have the opportunity to connect with top industry professionals. These sessions are designed for industry leaders to showcase their products to key decision-makers, discuss their solutions in-depth, and receive valuable feedback. At the same time, operators will be introduced to the latest products in the market, spanning food, beverage, supplies, services, technology, and equipment.
Stay Tuned
Check back soon for a list of companies confirmed to participate in the Innovative Solution Sessions at SNIC 2027.
Innovative Solution Sessions
Present, Discuss & Collaborate
The Innovative Solution Sessions provide 15 organizations with the opportunity to lead a 60-minute session each. These interactive sessions will focus on exchanging ideas, addressing common challenges, and showcasing innovative solutions for school nutrition operations.
- Format: Face-to-face discussions between industry reps and top operators
- Audience: Up to 50-60 key operators per session
- A/V Support: Audiovisuals provided; presenters must bring their own laptop
- Dates: Monday, January 11 & Monday, January 12
Tabletop Showcase
Showcase Your Products & Connect with Operators
Be one of 60 companies to display at the Networking Lunch & Tabletop Showcase on Tuesday, January 12. Exhibitors will have the opportunity to showcase their products, interact with operators, obtain feedback, and generate valuable leads.
- Exhibit Space: Each company will be provided with a 6-ft table with two chairs for product displays.
- Product Showcase: Display literature or pre-packaged items related to your new product or service.
- Note: No cooked food items can be showcased.
- SNA-provided food & beverages will be available for the luncheon.
Registration
Secure Your Spot
To reserve your space for the Innovative Solution Sessions or Tabletop Showcase, industry representatives must register for the conference.
- Full Member Registration: $1,080
- One-Day Member Registration: $695
Pricing for Exhibitors:
- Innovative Solution Session: $4,000
- Tabletop Display: $2,600
- Package Deal: Book both and save $500! $6,100 for both sessions ($4,000 + $2,100).
Spaces are limited and will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis, so don’t wait!
Networking Lunch & Tabletop Showcase(opens in new tab)
Lunch, Networking & Product Discovery
On Tuesday, January 12, enjoy lunch with peers and engage in productive networking while exploring a variety of tabletop displays scattered around the room. Operators will have the chance to discover cutting-edge products and services that can elevate their school foodservice operations. Industry representatives will be on hand to meet with operators, answer questions, gather feedback, and generate valuable leads.
Event Highlights:
-
Date: Tuesday, January 12
-
Networking Lunch: Connect with colleagues and industry leaders
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Tabletop Displays: Visit exhibits featuring the latest products and services
- Feedback Opportunity: Meet with operators, showcase your product, and generate quality leads.
Industry Partners
Get Involved
Are you an industry representative eager to learn more about the school foodservice market or showcase a new product? This is your chance to connect with decision-makers in the field. The Innovative Solution Sessions and Tabletop Showcase offer a unique platform for in-depth conversations, product demos, and valuable feedback from school nutrition directors.
Contact Us
For questions or additional information, please reach out to:
-
Crystal Harper-Pierre
SNA Exhibits Sales Manager
charper@schoolnutrition.org -
Nita Artis
SNA Business Development Manager
nartis@schoolnutrition.org
Sunday, January 10, 2026
Welcome Reception
JW Marriott Tampa Water Street(opens in new tab)(opens in new tab)(opens in new tab)
5:00 pm–6:30 pm
Join us for the Welcome Reception and start SNIC27 by connecting with peers, sharing ideas, and sparking conversations around how every idea becomes something bigger.
Monday, January 11, 2026
Networking Lunch
(opens in new tab)JW Marriott Tampa Water Street(opens in new tab)(connected to Tampa Marriott by skybridge on 2(opens in new tab)nd(opens in new tab) level)(opens in new tab)(opens in new tab)
(opens in new tab)11:45 am—1:15 pm
Catch up with old friends, meet new colleagues, reconnect with industry partners and network while enjoying a delicious lunch at the JW Marriott Austin. Thank you to all of SNA’s Patrons for treating everyone to lunch!
Sponsored by SNA Patrons
FAME Awards and Reception
(opens in new tab)JW Marriott Tampa Water Street(opens in new tab)
(opens in new tab)5:30 pm—7:00 pm
The Foodservice Achievement Management Excellence (FAME) Awards are the pinnacle of achievement for the K-12 foodservice industry’s innovators and leaders, honoring those that raise industry standards, tackle challenges and make a lasting difference in their school district and community. Join Basic American Foods in recognizing and celebrating the 2027 award winners and their accomplishments on Monday, January 11, 2027 at SNA’s School Nutrition Industry Conference (SNIC27) in Tampa, FL.
A cocktail reception honoring the 2027 FAME Award winners will be held from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. ET at the JW Marriott Tampa Water Street. SNA Members are welcome and encouraged to attend.
Registration is required, while tickets are free of charge. Spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
(opens in new tab)(opens in new tab)
2027 FAME Awards Tickets, Mon, Jan 11, 2027 at 5:30 PM | Eventbrite(opens in new tab)
(opens in new tab)(opens in new tab)
Hosted by Basic American Foods
Tuesday, January 12, 2026
Networking Lunch with Tabletop Showcase
JW Marriott Tampa Water Street(opens in new tab)
(opens in new tab)(opens in new tab)(opens in new tab)11:45 am—1:45 pm
Enjoy a delicious lunch and visit all the tabletop displays placed around the room. Your industry partners are here to show you a variety of products, services and the latest technology available to help you take your school nutrition program to the next level.
SNIC is Designed for:
- School nutrition industry partners, including manufacturers, distributors, and service providers
- Key decision-makers in school meal programs, such as directors and supervisors
- Technology providers, consultants, and culinary innovators
- Anyone passionate about advancing the K-12 nutrition industry through collaboration and innovation
Why Attend SNIC?
- Stay ahead of industry trends and regulatory changes.
- Gain strategic insights that help you make informed business decisions.
- Discover innovative products and services that meet the evolving needs of K-12 nutrition programs.
- Collaborate with fellow industry leaders to drive progress and impact on school nutrition.
SNIC is where the school nutrition industry comes together to connect, collaborate, and innovate. Don’t miss the opportunity to build lasting partnerships and shape the future of school meals for students and communities nationwide.
Thank you to our generous SNIC conference sponsors and Gem Club members.* Sponsorship support is vital to SNA’s efforts to provide valuable educational sessions, top-notch speakers and to ensure a meaningful and memorable event for all attendees.
Contact Nita Artis, Senior Corporate Sales Specialist, Industry Success & Patron Program, for more details on SNIC sponsorships.
SNIC Conference Sponsors
SNIC Gem Club Sponsors
Diamond Club
Ruby Club
M.C.I. Foods Inc.
Rich Products
Pearl Club
Duke Manufacturing
J&J Snack Foods Corp
SFSPac Food Safety & Sanitation System
Traulsen, a division of ITW/FEG
Vulcan, a division of ITW/FEG
Winston Foodservice
Let SNA’s Industry Relations team help you craft a winning partnership. We will turn your ideas into marketing strategies that not only hit your goals but also connect our members with the valuable products and services they are seeking. With a range of sponsorship options available, you will easily find the perfect match for your marketing budget.
Contact Nita Artis, SNA’s Senior Corporate Sales & Industry Specialist at nartis@schoolnutrition.org for more information.
Key Takeaways from SNIC 2026
Ideas. Connections. Impact. Experience SNIC
SNIC is the conference that helps you build meaningful relationships, share innovative ideas, and drive impactful change for students and communities nationwide!
Future Meetings
| Location | Dates |
|---|---|
| Tampa, FL | January 11-13, 2027 |
| San Diego, CA | January 23-25, 2028 |
| New Orleans, LA | January 28-30, 2029 |