The University of Kentucky James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits (UK JBBI) is seeking scientific experts and working professionals to present at the 2025 Industry Conference, hosted in partnership with the Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA).

The conference, taking place on UK’s campus March 17-19, brings bourbon professionals together to share best practices, explore new discoveries and advance the global growth of the American Whiskey Industry.

A wide variety of topics from past years exist under three umbrellas – technology, business and sustainability. To align with the values and mission of the Beam Institute, proposals focused on the following topics are especially encouraged:

• Industry state of the union
• Technology innovation and best practices
• Upcoming challenges and solutions
• Corporate culture and diversity of process

“Our assortment of spirits education topics on all three days will present many opportunities for engagement with speakers and attendees,” said Ilka Balk, associate director of UK JBBI. “As opening keynote speaker, chef Ouita Michel will set the table for three days of insight, best practices and information exchange.”

Sept. 30, 2024, is the deadline for proposal submissions. Final selections will be announced in November 2024. Wait-listed proposals and other submissions may be allowed to present their material in a quick-pitch format.

Proposal questions can be sent to Beam Institute Research Director Brad Berron (brad.berron@uky.edu).

“The Beam Institute Industry Conference is the perfect venue for connecting the people who take the latest innovations in the American spirits industry to the global market,” Berron said. “Ideas shared here will impact our field for years to come.”

To submit proposals or to learn more about the Industry Conference, visit https://beaminstitute.ca.uky.edu/conference.

Writer: Grace Sowards, grace.sowards@uky.edu

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