Annual Ugly Sweater Holiday Party
Dec
11
6:00 PM18:00

Annual Ugly Sweater Holiday Party

  • Little Man Ice Cream Factory (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join us for our Annual Ugly Sweater Holiday Party with food and drink for all. We will continue the season of giving with a Food Drive. In addition to purchasing your ticket(s), we ask that you bring food donations of your own product, purchase at the store, or we will purchase for you with an add on ticket of $15 or $30. More details to come!

Register here.

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Markets, Events, Bazaars – Everything You Need To Know
Nov
12
6:00 PM18:00

Markets, Events, Bazaars – Everything You Need To Know

Farmer's markets, holiday festivals, special events, and bazaars are where many small brands get their start—but how do you break in and thrive? This panel discussion will cover everything from the application process and fee structures to booth setup and sales techniques. Our expert panel includes three market hosts and a successful brand owner who came up through farmer's markets.

Register here.

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Expanding Horizons
Oct
23
5:00 PM17:00

Expanding Horizons

Join us for an evening at 

eTown Hall

 to celebrate the accomplishments of the Naturally Boulder community over the past 20 years with drinks, snacks, and LIVE music, learn more about this rebrand and contribute your thoughts, ideas, and questions regarding this exciting change! The event will kick off at 5:00 pm MT where you can network and socialize with others. Starting at 6:00 pm MT, there will be a presentation about joining forces to become Naturally Colorado. Afterwards, guests will be encouraged to participate in a Q&A session. We welcome all questions and concerns during this session. Your voice and perspective is extremely valued as we plan to take into consideration all feedback as Colorado Food Works and Naturally Boulder come together to create Naturally Colorado.

If you are a Colorado Food Works member, but not a member of Naturally Boulder, please registerhereas a non-member using the discount code CFWMEMBER to receive Naturally Boulder member pricing.

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Breaking Into Retail: A Roadmap for Emerging CPG Brands [Presented by SPINS]
Oct
17
5:30 PM17:30

Breaking Into Retail: A Roadmap for Emerging CPG Brands [Presented by SPINS]

Breaking Into Retail: A Roadmap for Emerging CPG Brands
Presented by SPINS

What does success in CPG look like? How and where should you start? SPINS Team Members, Amish Puri & Benji Fitts, will take you on the journey from your first farmer's market dollar to landing on the shelf of the right retailers to help your new brand grow and succeed.

This presentation will cover insights into:

  • How to pick the perfect retail partner

  • Essential elements of a great retailer pitch

  • Overview of the Natural Retailer landscape in Colorado

Register here.

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Newtopia Now: Grasslands Nightcap
Aug
26
5:00 PM17:00

Newtopia Now: Grasslands Nightcap

Colorado Food Works is proud to sponsor The Grasslands Nightcap networking + education event during Newtopia Now. RSVP here, and feel free to forward this invitation to a colleague or new friend from your Newtopia adventures. We look forward to celebrating a bold new era of wellness culture and conversation around natural products CPG and retail.

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CO Food Awards 2024
May
8
6:00 PM18:00

CO Food Awards 2024

Each year Colorado Food Works will recognize the most influential and promising businesses and individuals in Food and Beverage throughout Colorado. This exciting event is all about bringing attention to the rising stars and game-changers that are set to make waves in the market.

 A best in class award and recognition by industry experts can serve as a catalyst creating opportunities for media attention and increased exposure with buyers and retailers.

RSVP now. Click here register.

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Risky Business: Expert Insights on Food Manufacturing Risks
Apr
25
5:30 PM17:30

Risky Business: Expert Insights on Food Manufacturing Risks

The words entrepreneur and risk are almost synonymous. Join us this month to gain practical insights about the most common insurance claims food businesses experience and how to be prepared. The panelists will be covering topics including supply chain disruptions, manufacturing errors, and cyber risk mitigation. Our goal is to learn about real life challenges the CFW community is facing and share applicable solutions.

RSVP here.

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Diversifying Beyond Traditional Sales Channels
Feb
13
5:30 PM17:30

Diversifying Beyond Traditional Sales Channels

  • Sleeping Giant Brewng Company (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

When it comes to growth channels in food and beverage, there are a couple routes that get the most attention. Everyone talks about traditional retail, Amazon, and website tactics. But how can brands get into food service? How are nontraditional online D2C channels like Faire doing for brands like yours? What does convenience and travel look like, and how can brands get started?

Join us for a wide ranging panel discussion and gain practical insights from industry experts to diversify your sales strategy. Don't miss this chance to explore new paths to success. Reserve your spot now!

RSVP here.

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Colorado F&B Co-Manufacturing Summit
Jan
24
5:00 PM17:00

Colorado F&B Co-Manufacturing Summit

This January, the Colorado F&B Co-Manufacturing Summit brings together brands and co-manufacturers to discuss opportunities and challenges in Colorado's consumer product production ecosystem.

Register here - CFW members save $5 with code (same as Naturally Boulder member price). Check your email if you are a member or email us at hello@colorodofoodworks.org

Topics we'll be covering:

  • State of the industry: Explore macro-trends shaping national F&B manufacturing and operations

  • Regional and local dynamics in brand development and co-manufacturing

  • Business dynamics shaping current brand-manufacturer relationships

  • Best-practices in negotiating co-man contracts and relationships

Schedule

3 p.m. Tours of the CSU Food Innovation Center

4 p.m. Networking – connecting brands and co-manufacturers, refreshments, appetizers

5 p.m. Panel Discussion

6 p.m. Refreshments, appetizers, and networking

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Avoid the Lawsuit - Top Labeling Mistakes
Nov
15
5:30 PM17:30

Avoid the Lawsuit - Top Labeling Mistakes

Are you thinking about updating your CPG product label in 2024? Thinking about making a “Healthy” Claim on your package? Is your functional food or beverage “Anti-Inflammatory”? In this month’s event we will be reviewing top labeling mistakes that can result in lawsuits and costly re-prints. Avoid the headache and join us for a panel of Labeling and Regulatory Experts along with an interactive scavenger hunt to find packaging errors.

RVSP here.

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How to Sustainably Scale a CPG Business
Oct
25
5:30 PM17:30

How to Sustainably Scale a CPG Business

Zach Macaffer has prepared one of the most important presentations for all CFW members! He and his panel will cover everything you need to know about being sustainable with your ingredients and supply chain while scaling your business at the same time.Here are a few of his highlights:

  1. Focusing on sustainable and ethical sourcing of ingredients

  2. Connecting with ingredient suppliers and farmers

  3. Regenerative farming

  4. Growing your company well and responsibly

Yes, you can take control of your supply chain to do the right thing while growing your company. He will cover all the bases while explaining this goal’s importance. Sign up here.

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From In-House Sales to Brokerage: Retail Success For CPG
Sep
20
12:00 PM12:00

From In-House Sales to Brokerage: Retail Success For CPG

Join us for an eye-opening event focused on the transition from in-house sales to brokerage. In a world of changing consumer foods, brands face challenges in expanding their retail presence and securing buyer conversations. At this event, industry experts and successful brands will share insights on navigating the market upheaval. Discover the role of brokers, when to collaborate with them, and how to forge fruitful partnerships that get your products on shelves. Don't miss this opportunity to stay ahead of the curve. Reserve your spot now and unlock the keys to successful retail expansion.

Colorado Food Works is hosting this event as part of Denver Startup Week - for more information and to sign up click below.

RSVP here.

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F&B Office Hours: Mini Sessions with F&B Industry Experts
Sep
20
10:00 AM10:00

F&B Office Hours: Mini Sessions with F&B Industry Experts

Connect with Food & Beverage experts and the community at our FAB Office Hour Mini Sessions! Schedule a free 20-minute one-on-one session with industry experts in Finance, Marketing, Operations, Brokerage, or Distribution. Get personalized advice, and answers to burning questions, and tap into their expertise with no strings attached. Join us for this non-profit initiative brought to you by Colorado Food Works supporting F&B Entrepreneurs. Limited spots are available—sign up today!

Colorado Food Works is hosting this event as part of Denver Start Up Week - Learn more and sign up at the link below.

RSVP here.

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Building E-Commerce Sales in 2023 with Food & Beverage Products
Sep
19
12:00 PM12:00

Building E-Commerce Sales in 2023 with Food & Beverage Products

How do you reach customers through a direct to consumer model? What are the best avenues through which to sell? We all know the main marketing channels, but which ones are actually working for brands these days? Are there alternative channels you should be using that you may not even know about? In this panel we'll hear from a panel of DTC marketing experts and successful DTC brands who will share the truth about what works, how physical and digital marketing channels can support each other (instead of competing), and how to help you grow your DTC sales.

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Finding the Perfect Distribution  Fit in Food  & Beverage
Sep
19
10:30 AM10:30

Finding the Perfect Distribution Fit in Food & Beverage

Attention food and beverage businesses! Join our intimate distribution discussion to get the inside scoop from industry experts. Discover the signs that indicate you're ready for distribution, how to navigate the distribution landscape, and the key questions to ask. Hear firsthand experiences from both large-scale distributors and self-distributed brands, along with insights from retailers. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn and grow. Reserve your spot now and unlock the secrets of successful distribution at any stage of your business.

Colorado Food Works is hosting this event as part of Denver Start-Up Week.

RSVP here.

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Farmers Markets to Retail: Brand Success Stories
Sep
18
3:00 PM15:00

Farmers Markets to Retail: Brand Success Stories

Learn from four successful food and beverage brand founders as they share their insights and diverse pathways for transitioning from the farmer’s market circuit to mainstream and mass retail. Gain valuable knowledge on successfully making the leap and expanding your brand's reach. Don't miss this opportunity to learn and find answers that may help you in your journey.

This is an event that is part of Denver Startup Week, hosted by Colorado Foods Works.

RSVP here.

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TRUTH TALK: Building Resilience
Aug
30
5:30 PM17:30

TRUTH TALK: Building Resilience

Join us as we bring together a stellar lineup of panelists who have been there, done that. We've got experts who will share their insights on mindset, cash management, strategic investments, and meeting customers needs. It’s all about assessing the situation, identifying areas that require adjustment, and being willing to make necessary changes to stay ahead.

In this truth talk session, we'll uncover what's really happening in the food and beverage world. We'll explore how mindset plays a crucial role (it's a whopping 80%!) and equip you with tactical strategic tools to thrive in these challenging times.

Member FREE
Non-Members $10

RSVP here.

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Colorado Collision Summer Party
Jul
21
3:30 PM15:30

Colorado Collision Summer Party

For our summer party, we are collaborating with food partners from around the state including Naturaly Boulder, Pueblo Food Project, SPUR CSU and more!.

At 4pm there is a champion’s of Colorado pitch competition featuring the winners from around the state representing the Western Slope, Front Range, Mountain, San Luis Valley, and Eastern Plains. They will compete for additional funding and the chance to further elevate their remarkable food ventures!

Immediately following the competition will be an opportunity for networking and connecting with friends and colleagues from across the state. Anyone from the food and agriculture business community is welcome and invited to join!

Click here to register - it’s free for all!

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June Event: Get Onto Local Grocery Shelves Panel
Jun
22
5:30 PM17:30

June Event: Get Onto Local Grocery Shelves Panel

Join us in June for networking plus a panel discussion about how to get onto grocery shelves with buyer/manager, Keith of Leever’s Locavore, Karen Bradley, Sales Rep for Calbee North America, Greenspoons Distribution and Kristine Carey of Brand Guide.

We are at Industry in RiNo (be sure you have the right one in your maps).

FREE for Members.

$10 for Non-Members.

RSVP here.

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Colorado Food Awards - 1st Annual
Apr
27
5:30 PM17:30

Colorado Food Awards - 1st Annual

Join CFW for the 1st Annual Colorado Food Awards!

Each year Colorado Food Works will recognize the most influential and promising businesses in Food and Beverage throughout Colorado. This exciting event is all about bringing attention to the rising stars and game-changers that are set to make waves in the market.

Members $15

Non-Members $25

RVSP here.

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March Networking Event
Mar
23
5:30 PM17:30

March Networking Event

Please join us for a night of casual networking at the Blind Tiger Lounge. Get ready to play a round of Get To Know You Bingo with the chance to win some fun prizes and to check out this fun venue by Hooch Booch. This is a day to evening lounge featuring Hooch Booch Beverages and Non-Alcoholic Libations.

Please RSVP here.

FREE for Members.

$10 for Non-Members.

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How to Win in CPG in Uncertain Times
Feb
16
5:30 PM17:30

How to Win in CPG in Uncertain Times

What does it take to grow a CPG brand in a landscape that continues to shift dramatically? The past two years have seen many changes, and the outlook on 2023 has been... less than optimistic. What separates the startups that are thriving in the natural industry from those that are not? Who is growing, and how?

In this honest panel discussion, we will discuss how these successful leaders are preparing for the upcoming year. Our three panelists will share their stories and learnings, as well as answer your questions.

Sign up today here!

Free for members

$10 for non-members

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Taking on Tradeshows
Jan
19
5:30 PM17:30

Taking on Tradeshows

Tradeshow season is upon us with the Holy Grail "Expo West" just right around the corner. The fact of the matter is tradeshows are expensive investments and if not properly prepared fir can end up costing you more than their worth. Join us for a night of conversation around how which shows to attend, how to prepare and how measure success.

RSVP in this link

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Dec
7
5:30 PM17:30

CFW Holiday Party 2022

Dig out your favorite Ugly Holiday Sweater and Join us for our annual tradition of packing food bags for a local food bank, toasting the year and looking ahead to 2023.

This year’s celebration is at Ironton Distillery in RiNo. Don your best ugly sweater and raise a glass to 2022 and looking ahead. Includes two beverages and light food.

In the spirit of giving, we would love for you to raid your sample closet and make some room or clear out your home pantry to donate to those in need. We’ve teamed up with Metro Caring to fill food bags so everyone can enjoy a nice meal this holiday season.

If you are a service provider or don't have product that would be a good fit, we would love you to bring some canned goods or other shelf stable products. Or you can add an optional donation to your ticket and we will do the shopping for you!

Can’t wait to see you and raise a glass to Colorado’s amazing CPG community!

RSVP HERE. Early bird tickets available until 11/21.

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