Basin Food Summit & Buyer Expo

— Image courtesy the Columbia Basin Trust

When: October 24-26, 2024

Where: Nakusp, B.C.

The Basin Food & Buyer Expo (FABx) is an annual food summit that plays a critical role in fostering economic development, community support, and social connectivity related to the local food industry in the Columbia Basin. It is the only event of its kind in the region and this year, it will be hosted in Nakusp, BC from October 24-26, 2024.

FABx, sponsored by the Columbia Basin Trust, is dedicated to nurturing the Columbia Basin’s vibrant food economy by forging connections between food producers, buyers, industry stakeholders and the public. The event provides many benefits to the region as a whole: It’s the only opportunity for food industry stakeholders across the expansive Columbia Basin to come together for an opportunity to network and share knowledge It stimulates economic growth and development by driving attendees to local accommodations, restaurants, shops and more in the host community

The event includes initiatives like donations to food banks, and providing vouchers for Food Bank recipients to shop at the local market at the event. This inclusivity ensures that benefits reach various community segments, including those in need. Local promotion of host community businesses boosts their visibility and sales, and puts the host community on the map as a food destination and hub Hold space for Not-for-Profit groups working in emergency food and on resiliency projects to collaborate, share success and learn together.

“FABx is a one-of-a-kind food industry event in BC,” says Damon Chouinard, FABX co-organizer. “Since 2017, it has woven a tight network of stakeholders throughout the Columbia Basin. I love watching this community come together to share, grow, network, and celebrate. Each year, the event gains a unique touch as we highlight the local community, build on our successes, and find exciting new ways to engage our participants.”

The 2024 event will feature an industry summit, expo, inspiring speakers and workshops, networking opportunities, local farm, wine and cidery tours, a mushroom-themed marketplace, food and beverage vendors, hot springs and the most anticipated part of the event, a unique farm-to-table dinner experience with Chef Tyler from Bella Soriah and Chanterelle Restaurant and Bar in Nakusp.

“This event truly is the most delicious way we come together as a food community to hold each other up, learn together, celebrate our wins and strategize on our unique challenges,” says Shauna Fidler, FABx co-organizer. “Over the years it has become the food event of the year and something no one wants to miss being a part of!”

To learn more about this event, visit the Basin Food & Buyer Expo website.