The Maine Food Producers Showcase & Golden Fork Awards brings together Maine food, beverage, and seafood producers with buyers, distributors, chefs, retailers, foodservice professionals, investors, and community leaders for an afternoon of connection and discovery!

Hosted by Maine Center for Entrepreneurs, this signature industry event highlights the innovation driving Maine’s food economy. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet more than 50 Maine food producers, sample exciting new products, build valuable industry connections, and celebrate the companies selected as Golden Fork Award winners.

2026 Event Details

Thursday, October 8, 2026
Holiday Inn By the Bay
Portland, Maine

What to Expect

The afternoon will begin with high-impact workshops designed for food industry professionals, featuring panels of retail buyers, foodservice buyers, and distributors sharing insights on the trends shaping today’s market.

The program will continue with opening remarks and the Maine Golden Fork Awards Ceremony, celebrating innovation and Best in Show winners across food, seafood, and beverage categories.

Following the awards, attendees will explore the exhibitor showcase and tastings, featuring more than 50 of Maine’s premier food producers. The event will conclude with an industry reception in the Casco Bay Room, with an extended happy hour available at The Local Toast Lounge.

See the 2024 photo gallery for a sneak peek!

Who Should Attend

This event is designed for buyers, distributors, retailers, chefs, foodservice professionals, investors, industry partners, and community leaders interested in discovering Maine food and beverage companies and supporting the continued growth of Maine’s food economy.