THE COUNTDOWN IS ON: NIOP CON 2026 IS ALMOST HERE
The momentum behind NIOP CON 2026 is undeniable and the numbers say it all.
With 391 industry professionals already registered, representing 180 companies across the supply chain, this year’s convention is shaping up to be one of the most dynamic and wellrepresented gatherings in recent years. Producers, processors, purchasers, manufacturers, brokers, suppliers, logistics providers the entire industry will be in the room
And the agenda? Thoughtfully and strategically built around what’s happening in the industry
This year features 7 carefully selected sessions, each designed to address the issues impacting our industry right now From tariffs and policy outlooks to logistics innovations, seed oil narratives, biofuels, and what’s next for the marketplace, our respected speakers will deliver insights that are timely, practical, and immediately applicable. These are conversations that won’t just inform they will equip you with knowledge you can bring back to your office and put into action.
But NIOP CON is more than just powerful programming.
It’s the early morning conversations in the Conversation Café. It’s the relationships strengthened over receptions, on the golf course, and during shared experiences throughout the week. It’s the moments where connection becomes currency and where business moves forward because people took the time to be in the same room
There is tremendous value waiting in Scottsdale valuable insight, meaningful conversations, and memorable experiences If you’re registered, get ready If you’re still considering, now is the time
DON’T JUST ATTEND
IN EVERY SESSION
The NIOP Convention Committee has thoughtfully and intentionally built this year’s agenda around the issues that matter most to our attendees Each session was selected with purpose designed to provide timely insight, practical takeaways, and meaningful perspective that attendees can bring back to their teams and apply immediately.
From Derreck Kayongo’s powerful opening message on leadership and legacy, to Michelle Miller’s examination of media narratives and Claudia Larson’s update on the industry’s response to the seed oil debate, this year’s sessions tackle the conversations shaping our marketplace. Our Logistics Panel, featuring Doug Adams, John Robertson, Eric Snow, Lynn Stacy, Daniel Strydom, and Jesus Uribes delivers a state-of-the-union across transportation modes and explores the growing role of artificial intelligence in supply chain strategy. The What’s the Future (WTF) Panel, featuring Bill Lapp, Joanna Hitchner, and Dave Reeble, will connect the dots across tariffs, biofuels, policy shifts, and emerging trends to help attendees think strategically about what lies ahead
Every speaker brings deep expertise and real-world perspective — offering valuable, insightful, and actionable information that extends far beyond the convention ballroom We encourage you to attend each session, engage fully, and take advantage of the knowledge being shared. The conversations happening at NIOP CON 2026 aren’t just informative they’re tools you can carry back to the office to help navigate today’s challenges and tomorrow’s opportunities
HERE’S A LOOK AT EACH SESSION AT NIOP
CON & WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO LEARN
SESSION SPOTLIGHTS: MONDAY, MARCH
16
SESSION SPONSORED BY
OPENING
SESSION | 9:00 -10:15 AM
DERRECK KAYONGO
From life as a Ugandan refugee to building a multi-million-dollar venture that transformed global health and the hotel industry, Derreck’s story is nothing short of extraordinary His simple yet brilliant idea to recycle hotel soap didn’t just create change it built a legacy. (Yes every time you use liquid soap mounted in a hotel shower, you’re experiencing the ripple effect of his innovation.) Derreck will challenge attendees to harness their passion, embrace personal accountability, and focus their energy where it matters most.
For NIOP attendees, Derreck’s story is a powerful reminder that even in a complex, ever-changing industry, individual initiative and teamwork can create measurable impact. His message challenges each of us to think bigger about our role, our influence, and the legacy we are building within our companies and our industry
An added bonus: All opening session attendees will receive a special thank-you gift for being there!
SESSION SPONSORED BY
KEYNOTE
SESSION | 10:15 -11:30 AM
DR. SCOTT IRWIN
Buckle Up: A wild ride is ahead!
Keynote speaker, Scott Irwin, will take the stage this year with a timely and compelling message: our industry may be entering its most dynamic period since the early 1970s.
Framed as a multi-act presentation, Scott will examine where we’ve been, unpack what’s unfolding now, and explore what could lie ahead. From biofuels policy and market fundamentals to the often-overlooked details and even the weather he anticipates significant shifts that could shape the second half of 2026 and set the tone for a pivotal 2027. This is a session you won’t want to miss.
MONDAY, MARCH 16
HOT TOPIC 1: TARIFFS & TRADE:
CUTTING THROUGH THE CHAOS |
12:00 -12:30 PM
STEVE NICHOLSON
Steve Nicholson is a Global Strategist – Grains & Oilseeds at Rabobank and brings deep, real-world insight into the forces shaping global trade. In his session, “Tariffs & Trade: Cutting Through the Chaos,” Steve will break down today’s complex tariff environment and deliver practical, actionable insights no matter where you sit along the supply chain
If tariffs, trade policy, and global market shifts impact your business, this is a session you won’t want to miss
HOT TOPIC 2: MYTHS, MEDIA, AND THE FUTURE OF SEED OILS |
12:30 -1:00 PM
MICHELLE MILLER | THE FARM BABE
In her session, “Myths, Media, and the Future of Seed Oils,” Michelle tackles one of the most pressing challenges facing our industry today: misinformation. From viral headlines to social media soundbites, seed oils have become a lightning rod and Michelle will break down how the myths spread, why they stick, and what it means for modern agriculture.
With fewer than 2% of Americans directly involved in agriculture, Michelle will share why authentic, science-based communication matters more than ever and leave attendees with practical strategies to confidently engage consumers and advocate for seed oils in today’s media-driven world
This is a can’t-miss session for anyone navigating agriculture, public perception, and the future of our industry.
SESSION SPOTLIGHTS:
MONDAY, MARCH 16
HOT TOPIC 3: SEED OILS IN THE SPOTLIGHT: WHAT’S REAL, WHAT’S NOT, AND WHAT’S NEXT |
1:00 -1:30 PM
CLAUDIA LARSON
In early 2025, comments from public figures about seed oils and human health quickly made headlines and the media ran with it. The result? Widespread consumer confusion and growing pressure on many of our NIOP member companies, with customers asking for alternatives based on the claim that “seed oils are bad for you ”
The science is clear: seed oils are not harmful to human health So why is our industry still fighting this narrative?
Claudia Larson, President & CEO of the Edible Oil Producers Association (EOPA), will address exactly that. She’ll provide updates on what’s been done, what initiatives are currently underway, and what’s ahead in the effort to combat misinformation and re-center the conversation around facts and science.
This session pairs perfectly with the Hot Topics presentation just before it, featuring Michelle Miller (The Farm Babe), who will examine how and why the media amplified this narrative in the first place. Michelle will tackle the messaging side of the issue and Claudia will focus on the industry’s response and the path forward.
If your company has felt the ripple effects of this debate, this is a session you won’t want to miss
BY THE WAY ...
A library of science-backed resources on seed oils can always be accessed on NIOP’s website, available to the public. Please feel free to read, use, and share these resources!
SESSION SPOTLIGHTS:
TUESDAY, MARCH 17
WHAT’S THE FUTURE PANEL
SESSION SPONSORED BY
SESSION SPONSORED BY
| 9:15 -10:30 AM
DAVE REEBLE (MODERATOR), JOANNA HITCHNER AND BILL LAPP (PANELISTS)
After two days of diving into tariffs, biofuels, logistics, seed oil debates, policy shifts, and more what does it all mean? How do we connect the dots?
The What’s the Future (WTF) Panel is where it all comes together
Featuring Bill Lapp, Joanna Hitchner, and Dave Reeble, this powerhouse panel will synthesize the key conversations from NIOP CON 2026 and translate them into what they mean for today’s market and more importantly, for the road ahead. What signals should we be watching? How could policy and trade developments reshape the landscape? What forces are most likely to impact our industry next?
This isn’t just a recap it’s a strategic look forward. If you want to leave NIOP CON with perspective, clarity, and a sharper view of what’s coming down the pipeline, this is the session you don’t skip.
LOGISTICS PANEL | 10:45 -11:45 AM
FROM INTERFACE TO INTELLIGENCE: THE EVOLUTION OF LOGISTICS CONNECTIVITY
ERIC SNOW (MODERATOR), DOUG ADAMS, JOHN ROBERTSON, LYNN STACY, DANIEL STRYDOM, AND JESUS URIBES (PANELISTS)
Our Logistics Panel will kick off with a brief state of the union across each transportation mode, covering recent wins, headwinds, and key regulatory developments shaping how goods move across the supply chain.
Then, the conversation turns forward with a deep dive into the forces impacting logistics today, including the growing role of artificial intelligence and its potential to transform planning, efficiency, and decision-making
If transportation, operations, or supply chain strategy plays any role in your business, this session delivers the practical insight and big-picture perspective you need.
IT’S NOT JUST ALL
While NIOP CON delivers powerful content and meaningful industry insight, we all know that some of the most valuable moments happen outside the session room. Because relationships aren’t built on handshakes alone they’re strengthened through shared experiences, conversations, and time spent connecting beyond the meeting room
That’s why our social events are such an important part of the convention experience. From Saturday’s Early Arrival Mix & Mingle to the Golf Tournament and Pickleball event, from the New Member & First-Time Attendee Reception with the NIOP Board of Directors to the Welcome Reception, every gathering is intentionally designed to create space for authentic connection Add in attendee favorites like Hit the Boat, Puppy Break, Beers with Peers, Monday Night’s Networking Night: Dinner & Entertainment, Cigars & Bourbon, and Tuesday’s Closing Reception, and you’ll quickly see there’s no shortage of opportunities to engage.
These events aren’t just fun (though they certainly are). They create the environment where conversations flow more naturally, partnerships begin organically, and relationships deepen in ways that simply can’t happen in a formal meeting. At NIOP, we believe connection is currency and sometimes the most meaningful connections are made with a golf club in hand, a beverage on the terrace, or a shared laugh during a reception.
So yes, we handle serious business at NIOP CON but we make sure to enjoy the experience along the way.
HERE’S WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT
BEYOND THE BALLROOM
SATURDAY, MARCH 14
EARLY ARRIVAL MIX & MINGLE |
5:30 -7:00 PM
VISTA MORADA PATIO
In town early? So are we!
The Early Arrival Mix & Mingle is the perfect way to kick off your NIOP CON experience. Designed for attendees who arrive in Scottsdale on Saturday, this casual reception offers the opportunity to meet fellow early arrivals, introduce yourself, and start building connections before the convention officially begins.
Enjoy a drink, grab a snack, and ease into the days ahead with relaxed conversation in a welcoming setting It’s a lowpressure, high-value way to start networking early
SPONSORED BY
SUNDAY, MARCH 15
EMMETT CORNIBE
MEMORIAL GOLF
TOURNAMENT | 5:30 -7:00 PM
KIERLAND GOLF COURSE
Few networking opportunities compare to time spent on the golf course and NIOP’s Annual Golf Tournament is no exception.
With a full round ahead, golfers have hours to engage naturally with peers, customers, and colleagues in a setting that fosters authentic relationship-building beyond the conference room It’s a unique opportunity to strengthen existing partnerships and create new ones all while enjoying a memorable morning outdoors.
Golf check-in and breakfast begin at 7:00 AM (open until 8:00 AM), followed by an 8:00 AM shotgun start. If you’re looking for networking that feels effortless and enjoyable, this is the place to be
Preregistration is required for the golf tournament. We still have several spots available! If you’re interested in participating, please email NIOP staff: janamarie@niop.org.
TOURNAMENT SPONSORED BY
BEYOND THE BALLROOM
SUNDAY,
MARCH 15
PICKLEBALL | 9:00 -11:00 AM
KIERLAND TENNIS COURTS
NIOP’s annual Pickleball Event has quickly become an attendee favorite and it’s easy to see why. This fun and interactive activity offers a great way to connect with fellow attendees while enjoying a little friendly competition in the Arizona sunshine.
Players of all skill levels are welcome, whether you’re picking up a paddle for the first time or you’re a seasoned player. A pickleball pro will be on hand to instruct beginners and help coordinate play for more experienced participants,
Play begins at 9:00 AM and wraps up at 11:00 AM, followed by a complimentary brunch for all players.
Please note that preregistration is required, but there’s still time to sign up if you’d like to join in.
NEW MEMBER & FIRST TIME ATTENDEE RECEPTION |
5:00 -6:00 PM
NORTHERN SKY TER
New to NIOP in 2026 or attending the convention for the first time? We invite you to join us for the New Member & First-Time Attendee Reception, a special gathering designed to help you feel right at home.
This reception offers the opportunity to meet members of the NIOP Board of Directors, connect with fellow newcomers, ask questions, and learn more about the association and how to make the most of your membership. It’s a relaxed, welcoming environment where you can build early connections and gain insight into the many ways NIOP supports its members
Whether you’re brand new to the industry or simply new to NIOP CON, this is the perfect place to start your convention experience!
BEYOND THE BALLROOM
SUNDAY, MARCH 15
WELCOME RECEPTION | 6:00 -7:00 PM
MARSHALL OUTPOST & PAVIL
All attendees are invited to officially kick off NIOP CON at the Welcome Reception the perfect way to start the convention on a high note
Share a cocktail with colleagues, reconnect with familiar faces, and introduce yourself to new ones as the energy of the convention begins to build This reception is always buzzing longtime friends picking up where they left off and first-time attendees being warmly welcomed into the fold. It sets the tone for an exciting, productive, and memorable convention.
We know many groups head out to dinner afterward, so start your evening with us and enjoy your first cocktail on us It’s the ideal way to begin what promises to be a fantastic few days in Scottsdale
MONDAY, MARCH 16
HIT THE BOAT | 3:00 -5:00 PM
NORTHERN SKY TERRACE
Step away from the sessions and meetings and join us for one of the most talked-about traditions at NIOP CON the Hit the Boat Afternoon Reception!
A longtime attendee favorite from past NIOP conventions at the Westin Kierland, this lively event blends fresh air, friendly competition, and great conversation in a relaxed outdoor setting.
Grab a golf club (we’ll provide it!), take your best swing, and see if you can hit the boat floating in the water below. Whether you’re in it to win it or just cheering from the sidelines, this reception is all about fun, laughter, and connecting with industry peers in a memorable way
SPONSORED BY
SPONSORED BY
BEYOND THE BALLROOM
PUPPY BREAK | 4:00 -5:00 PM MONDAY, MARCH 16
NORTHERN SKY TERRACE
One of the most anticipated events of NIOP CON is back!
Join us for our Puppy Break, an afternoon reception that perfectly blends fun, fresh air, networking, and most important of all-PUPPIES! Yes, real, live puppies!
Located right beside Hit the Boat, attendees have the opportunity to pet, hold, and even adopt adorable puppies! This attendee-favorite event delivers smiles, laughter, and memorable moments every year. Don’t miss it!
SPONSORED BY
BEERS WITH PEERS | 6:00 -7:00 PM
MARSHALL OUTPOST
Unwind from the day and connect at Beers with Peers, a casual networking event designed for great conversations and connections.
Join fellow attendees for cocktails, cold beverages, and easygoing conversation all with the beautiful backdrop of the Scottsdale scenery.
If you're headed off-property for a dinner with customers, join us a for a cocktail before heading out! Or if you're staying onsite for our Monday night dinner and concert, kick off the evening early-share ideas, swap stories, and build relationships-drink in hand!
SPONSORED BY
BEYOND THE BALLROOM
MONDAY, MARCH 16
NETWORKING NIGHT: DINNER & ENTERTAINMENT | 6:00 -10:00 PM
MARSHALL OUTPOST & PA
Join us for Networking Night, an evening designed for meaningful connection, incredible food, and memorable entertainment all without ever leaving the resort This special event brings attendees together around the table to enjoy a delicious dinner seated alongside customers, colleagues, and industry friends.
Following dinner, the evening continues with a live performance by Urban Electra, an all-female electric string quartet known for their high-energy sound and modern edge. Their repertoire spans top hits from Muse, Coldplay, The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, and everything in between creating the perfect soundtrack for an unforgettable night.
Preregistration ($50) is required for this event. If you would like to register, please email NIOP staff: janamarie@niop.org.
CIGARS AND BOURBON | 8:00 -10:00 PM
MARSHALL O
Returning for the fourth year in a row, Cigars & Bourbon is one of NIOP CON’s most popular attendee favorites
An expert cigar professional will be on site to help guide your selection share the flavor profiles you enjoy and let him recommend and light a cigar tailored to your taste
Paired with a curated selection of bourbon, this event is all about slowing down, savoring the experience, and strengthening connections.
Click here for list of Networking Night registered attendees
BEYOND THE BALLROOM
TUESDAY, MARCH 17
CLOSING RECEPTION |
6:00 -8:00 PM
VISTA MORADA PATIO
Before you head home, join us for the Closing Reception your final opportunity at NIOP CON to mix, mingle, and connect with fellow attendees.
This gathering offers the perfect setting to wrap up conversations, exchange final business cards, and reflect on the connections made throughout the convention
Whether you’re saying goodbye to longtime colleagues or solidifying new relationships, the Closing Reception is a fitting end to a week built on connection, collaboration, and community. Don’t miss this last chance to connect before we part ways!
SPONSORED BY
NIOP CON isn’t just for attendees we’re happy to welcome spouses and significant others to join in the fun beyond the ballroom! We encourage them to attend and enjoy our social events and receptions throughout the convention.
From the Welcome Reception to Hit the Boat, Puppy Break, Beers with Peers, Cigars & Bourbon, and the Closing Reception, there are plenty of opportunities to connect and be part of the NIOP experience.
If your spouse or guest has not yet been registered, it’s not too late. While there is no fee for them to attend the social events, we do need to know they’re coming so we can prepare a name badge and ensure a warm welcome. Let us know we’d love to have them join us in Scottsdale!
(Please note that events requiring preregistration including the Golf Tournament, Pickleball event, and Monday Night’s Networking Night: Dinner & Entertainment are not included unless separately registered.)
If your spouse or guest is interested in enjoying a spa service during the convention, they are welcome to book an appointment directly with the Westin Kierland Spa and receive a 10% discount To schedule, simply call 480-624-1525 and mention that you are with NIOP to receive the special rate
BEYOND THE BALLROOM -
MONDAY, MARCH 16
SPOUSES BREAKFAST | 9:30 -10:30 PM
VISTA MORADA PATIO
Spouses and significant others of all attendees are invited to join us for a special breakfast just for them on Monday morning from 9:30–10:30 AM
This relaxed gathering offers a wonderful opportunity to meet other spouses, make new friends, and enjoy a delicious breakfast in great company.
There is no cost and no preregistration is required if you spouse/partner is coming with you to NIOP CON, please encouarge them to come and enjoy this breakfast just for them!
WITH SINCERE THANKS TO OUR 2026 SPONSORS
NIOP CON 2026 would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsoring companies.
To the organizations that have invested in this year’s convention, we extend our deepest gratitude
Your commitment goes far beyond sponsorship — it reflects a belief in the value of connection, collaboration, and the continued advancement of our industry. Because of your partnership, we are able to deliver meaningful programming, impactful speakers, and the exceptional networking experiences that define NIOP CON.
NIOP sincerely appreciates your investment in the association and in the future of our industry. We are proud to partner with companies that lead by example and help make this convention and our community stronger year after year. THANKYOU,
DIAMONDSPONSORS!
CALLING ALL
NEW MEMBERS & FIRST-TIME CONVENTION ATTENDEES
All new members/first time attendees will receive an email with the meeting invitation!
MEMBER RATES
(Feb. 13 - Mar. 13) .
(March 14) .
(Feb. 13 - Mar. 13)
For any first-time member company, the first two attendees from that company may attend at half price CALL NIOP Headquarters at 803-252-7128 to take advantage of this opportunity
MONDAY NIGHT DINNER
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
Monday, April 20:
Tuesday, April 21:
