2026 Grocery Retail for All Summit

Date: June 18, 2026

Time: 8:00 AM- 5:30 PM CT

Location: Dorin Forum, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL

Lead Convener: Food Systems for the Future Institute
Co-hosts: José Andrés
Partners: Dion’s Chicago Dream, The Food Law and Policy Clinic at Harvard Law School, The Food Trust, The Global Food Institute at George Washington University

As food prices rise, SNAP comes under increasing strain, and grocery stores disappear from too many urban and rural communities, the question is no longer what’s broken, it’s what’s working.

Building on the momentum of the first Grocery Retail for All Summit, this national convening will spotlight store models, financing tools, and public policies already keeping shelves stocked and doors open—and accelerate the scaling of proven solutions that make affordable, nutritious food accessible in every community.

Who Should Attend This Summit

The 2026 Grocery Retail for All Summit is designed for leaders across the grocery, food, health, investment, and policy sectors who are working to expand access to affordable, nutritious food in every community.

At the center of this conversation are independent and community-based grocery operators, whose experience and leadership are essential to building sustainable food access solutions.

Independent Grocers: We Want You There

If you are an independent or regional grocery retailer, or a cooperative or nonprofit grocery operator, we want to ensure you are able to participate. If the registration fee presents a barrier, please contact us at [email protected] to request a complimentary registration. Please note that a limited number of complimentary registrations are available. You may also reach out to inquire about potential travel or accommodation assistance, as limited support may be available.

Media professionals covering grocery retail and students interested in food systems may also reach out regarding attendance.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

All funds raised through Summit registrations and sponsorships will support the continuation and expansion of grocery-focused convenings, research, and initiatives led by the Food Systems for the Future Institute. These resources help advance efforts to strengthen grocery retail in underserved communities and expand access to affordable, nutritious food.

Learn more at:

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher Food Systems for the Future Institute