Global Midwest Alliance
HomeAbout UsProgramsPSLOMeetings & EventsPartnershipSponsorshipNews

888.808.0462
Driving Innovation and Growth
Food Industry
Upcoming Events
Food safety is a major international health and economic issue. The economic impact of foodborne illnesses remains a critical concern, costing the U.S. an estimated $152 billion annually, with millions of new cases reported each year. To address this challenge, the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) continues to drive a transformation in food safety practices. By establishing science-based standards and requiring importers and processors to evaluate risks, monitor operations, and implement preventive measures, FSMA has laid the foundation for a globally integrated, prevention-focused food safety system.
Key initiatives include:

Food Industry Forum: A platform for dialogue between business leaders, experts and scientists aimed at creating new products and effective food safety solutions.

Food Industry Program Series: Addressing critical topics like regulatory compliance, sustainability and emerging safety challenges.

Partnership Opportunities: Advisory groups, lab visit programs and sponsorships to support meaningful collaboration.

To partner with the Global Midwest Alliance or explore sponsorship opportunities in the food industry sector, please contact us at [email protected]. Together, we can drive advancements in food safety, strengthen the Midwest economy, and shape the future of the food industry.


Alliance Partners in the Food Industry Sector
Food Industry Program Sponsors
Midwest Food Matters Gala
​On November 19, 2024, Global Midwest Alliance hosted the 7th Annual Midwest Food Matters Leadership Awards, a distinguished event celebrating excellence in the Midwest’s food industry. This year, the BMO Food, Consumer and Agribusiness Group was honored for their outstanding leadership and contributions to fostering growth and innovation within the sector.

This event is a vibrant gathering of leaders, suppliers and service providers from across the food industry, offering a unique platform for networking and collaboration. Guests came together to recognize the remarkable achievements that have shaped the industry, while looking ahead to its promising future in the Midwest.

For more details about this event and the initiatives championed by Midwest Food Matters, please visit Midwest Food Matters.

Copyright © Global Midwest Alliance, 2012-2025.  All rights reserved.  |  Privacy Policy  |  Terms of Use
News
May 29, 2025
Food Industry Program

See more Events.  Join our Mailing List.
Left to Right: Erica Kuhlmann, BMO's Food, Consumer and Agribusiness Group; Andrew Abrahams, Midwest Food Matters; and Gail Longmore, Global Midwest Alliance
Adoption of technology has further accelerated in 2024, with companies leveraging advanced solutions to improve compliance, streamline internal processes, and prevent costly food recalls. Innovations like predictive analytics, AI-driven monitoring, and blockchain for supply chain transparency have become integral to meeting strict regulatory requirements and consumer expectations. 


Chicago, situated at the heart of one of the world’s most productive agricultural regions, remains a pivotal hub for food processing and distribution. With a legacy rooted in meatpacking, cereals, baked goods, and candy production, Chicago is home to nearly 4,000 food companies employing over 50,000 people. These firms play a significant role in converting raw materials into edible goods, driving the regional and national economy.
The Global Midwest Alliance is dedicated to fostering collaboration across the food industry, bridging the gap between cutting-edge research and operational excellence. By connecting companies with academic and government laboratories engaged in food technology and safety research, the Alliance strengthens innovation and economic growth in the Midwest.