Chicago: July 2026 | Las Vegas: October 27, 2026
Overview
Contract manufacturers—especially in fermentation—are facing real challenges: tightening budgets, reduced demand, and limited access to the right partners. IO Lounge Xperience: OC is a high-focus networking event built to solve that problem.
We’re bringing together fermentation-focused contract manufacturers with brands and companies actively seeking formulation, production, and scale partners, along with C-level executives and industry stakeholders who can unlock growth.
Overview
Contract manufacturers are at a crossroads. Rising costs, shifting market demands, and the constant pressure to differentiate are just a few of the hurdles. That’s why IO Lounge Xperience: OC is pivoting to focus exclusively on you—the contract manufacturers powering innovation behind the scenes.
This is not a generic networking mixer. It’s a targeted, strategic gathering designed to help you grow. Join us to connect with other contract manufacturers, emerging brands, and the Ingredients Online team to explore how our digital tools, data, and marketplace solutions can drive new revenue and visibility for your business.
Why This Event Exists
The fermentation contract manufacturing space is critical to the future of ingredients, but many contract manufacturers are underutilized or stuck without the right commercial relationships.
This event is designed to create direct, measurable business outcomes by connecting:
- Contract manufacturers seeking new customers and projects
- Brands and ingredient innovators looking for fermentation production partners
- C-level decision makers and investors aligned with reshoring, scaling, and advanced manufacturing
- Economic Development Organizations (EDOs) supporting infrastructure and growth incentives
Who Should Attend
This event is curated for decision-makers and those directly involved in manufacturing partnerships.
Ideal Attendees
Include:
✔ Contract manufacturing executives
(fermentation / biotech / precision fermentation)
✔ CPG and ingredient brand founders and sourcing leads
✔ R&D leaders and innovation teams seeking fermentation capabilities
✔ Procurement leaders searching for scalable supply solutions
✔ Investors and strategic partners focused on advanced ingredients
✔ EDO and government-related stakeholders supporting manufacturing growth
Curated Networking (Relaxed + Results-Focused
This is not a tradeshow or crowded expo floor. The IO Lounge Xperience offers a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere where meaningful conversations come naturally and connections are purposeful.
✔ Quiet, well-paced setting designed for productive relationship-building
✔ Pre-qualified attendee mix ensures relevancy and shared goals
✔ Guided introductions based on mutual fit and sourcing needs
Limited Tabletop Activations (For Select Manufacturers)
A small number of contract manufacturers will have the option to host a tabletop activation to:
✔ Showcase fermentation capabilities and key services
✔ Present target customer fit and production capacity
✔ Book follow-up meetings with qualified decision-makers
Now Launching:
IO Services – Your Front Door to New Business
A Preview of What's Coming
IO Lounge Xperience: OC is more than a one-time gathering—it’s a strategic preview of what Ingredients Online will offer in larger-scale events later this year.
Attendees and tabletop participants will gain early access to:
✔ Discounted table and sponsorship packages for upcoming IO Summit events in Chicago and Las Vegas 2026
✔ Priority consideration for speaking and activation opportunities at those events
✔ Exclusive insight into the evolving format and value of the IO Summit experience
Take advantage of this opportunity to make an early impression, strengthen relationships, and secure your position in the growing IO event ecosystem.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Put Your Brand at the Center of the Conversation
Sponsoring IO Summit isn’t just about visibility—it’s about alignment. As a sponsor, your brand will be positioned alongside top innovators, buyers, and thought leaders shaping the future of the ingredients industry. From branded touchpoints to a tabletop activation in the Buyers Market, sponsorship unlocks targeted exposure, high-value networking, and meaningful buyer engagement.
Now Accepting Speaker Applications
We’re looking for visionary leaders to take the stage at the IO Summit Investment Session.
This is your opportunity to help shape the future of the ingredients industry by sharing insights on reshoring, supply chain innovation, biotech, policy, and investment. Whether you're a government official, trade representative, manufacturer, or academic, your perspective can help drive meaningful change. Join an influential lineup of speakers and connect with decision-makers, investors, and innovators who are moving the industry forward. Apply now to be considered for a speakership role.
Contact Us
Address
Orange Headquarters:
500 S Main St. #800 Orange, CA, 92868
Phone
Toll Free: (877) 550-3600
Local: (562) 207-9770
cfranchino@ingredientsonline.com
sdhaliwal@ingredientsonline.com
RSVP
Interested in attending IO Lounge Xperience: OC?
RSVP to be considered for attendance. Space is limited and approvals will be based on fit and role relevance.
IO Lounge Xperience: OC
Event Details:
Date: March 3, 2026
Where: Orange, California
Format: In Person Networking Event
Audience Focus: Fermentation contract manufacturers + companies seeking partners
Capacity: Limited to maintain high-quality matching and ROI
Contact Us
Address:
500 S Main St. #800 Orange, CA, 92868
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