Alternative Protein Innovation Task Force Launch Event

Join state leaders, researchers, and industry innovators as Illinois unveils the findings of the first-in-the-nation Alternative Protein Innovation Task Force — a landmark effort to position the state as a hub for agricultural innovation, sustainable manufacturing, and economic growth. This event will spotlight bold legislative recommendations to strengthen Illinois’ food resilience, expand its biomanufacturing and R&D infrastructure, and accelerate job creation across the state’s growing alternative protein sector. 

Register for free here.

Photos and interviews available upon request.

WHERE:
Room 137, Agricultural Engineering Science Building
1304 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Urbana, IL 61801
Metered parking is available along Pennsylvania Avenue.

WHEN:  
Monday, December 15, 2025
10 a.m. – 12 p.m. CT

Agenda

• 10–11 a.m. Opening remarks, industry panel, Q&A
• 11–11:30 a.m. Tasting reception and networking
• 11:30 a.m.–12 p.m. iFAB-led tour of the Integrated Bioprocessing Research Laboratory (IBRL)

Confirmed Speakers

• State Sen. Mattie Hunter (Task Force co-chair)
• State Rep. Mary Beth Canty (Task Force co-chair)
• Ling Li, Director of Market Development, Precision Fermentation, ADM
• Mike Snodgrass, Managing Director, Global Alternative Proteins, Griffith Foods Inc.
• Michael Martin, Director, New Applications, LanzaTech
• Eric Lee, Director of Business Development – Fermentation, Primient
• Beth Conerty, Associate Director of Business Development, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign & Regional Innovation Officer, iFAB Tech Hub

Media Contact
Claire E. Benjamin
Director of Communications
College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences
217-123-4567 | claire@illinois.edu