Key to the success of the mezcal and tequila industries is a rich cultural and biological diversity associated with the agave. Innovation is happening at every step of the “seed to glass” process, but there are still many opportunities to increase sustainable practices, protect biodiversity and reduce the impact the industry has on the climate.
Join 100 farmers, producers, biologists, agronomists, researchers, maestros mezcaleros, distributors, bartenders and other people working in the southern Arizona and Sonoran agave industry to quickly validate, prototype and launch new sustainability projects.
Agave: For The World is an action-oriented event where new projects are launched. Participants will pitch ideas (optional) and work in small teams to design, develop and launch new projects. Teams will have the opportunity to present their projects and future plans on-stage at the Agave Expo on May 3, part of the Agave Heritage Festival (presented by Hotel Congress).
Agenda
Saturday, May 2
12:00 pm - Arrive at the venue, check-in & grab lunch
12:30 pm - Kickoff + Keynote Speaker: "Overview of current sustainability practices across the agave, mezcal and tequila industries."
1:15 pm - Pitches! If you have an idea, line up to pitch. Note: Pitching is optional but encouraged. Teams can also preform and show up ready to work.
2:00 pm - Teams form around the most viable concepts, get a crash course on innovation methodologies and begin working. Industry experts will be available for mentorship.
7:00 pm - Dinner served
11:00 pm - Doors close
Sunday, May 3
8:00 am - Doors open and breakfast served
11:00 am - Teams present their projects to a panel of judges
12:30 pm - Walk from Arizona Forge to Hotel Congress
1:00 pm - Top 3 teams chosen by judges present at Hotel Congress during the Agave Expo
2:00 pm - End. Enjoy the rest of the Agave Heritage Festival!
Themes
Any idea related to sustainability in the agave/mezcal/tequila industry is welcome. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
New, innovative uses of agave biomass, fiber, etc - for anything (biofuels, textiles…)
Innovation in the handling of the agave crops, micropropagation, worker safety
New efficiencies in the production or distribution of agave-based products, including tequila, smart agriculture, etc.
Innovate in the transport system of the plants
Consumer marketing of agave products, including mezcal and tequila
Price: Free