As part of the renowned Waterford Festival of Food, the South East Technological University (SETU) and the Dungarvan Enterprise Centre hosted the Food Sparks Symposium, a unique networking and knowledge-sharing event designed to support the growth and innovation of food and beverage businesses.

Bringing together food producers, entrepreneurs, industry experts, and innovation stakeholders, the symposium provided a valuable platform for collaboration, inspiration, and professional development within Ireland’s vibrant food ecosystem.

Held at the SETU Cork Road Campus in Waterford, the event showcased the critical role that higher education institutions can play in supporting entrepreneurship, research, innovation, and skills development within the agri-food sector. Participants had the opportunity to learn about the various ways SETU collaborates with businesses to drive innovation, improve competitiveness, and support sustainable growth.

A highlight of the symposium was an engaging conversation between renowned food writer and broadcaster Georgina Campbell and local food producers, offering valuable insights into the evolving food landscape and the opportunities available to small and medium-sized enterprises operating in the sector.

Attendees also benefited from expert perspectives delivered by representatives from Bord Bia and Fáilte Ireland, who shared current industry trends, market opportunities, and strategic insights relevant to food and beverage businesses seeking to expand their reach and strengthen their market position.

The event further celebrated innovation and local entrepreneurship through the official launch of Knockanore Mozzarella Cheese, presented by Edward Hayden and Edward Lonergan, highlighting the importance of product development, regional identity, and value creation within the food industry.

In addition to the knowledge-sharing sessions, participants enjoyed an artisan lunch prepared through the Our Waterford Kitchen Table initiative, providing an opportunity to experience and celebrate the quality and diversity of local food products while facilitating informal networking among attendees.

The Food Sparks Symposium reflects the growing importance of collaboration between higher education, industry, and regional stakeholders in fostering innovation and supporting the development of sustainable food systems. By creating opportunities for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and networking, events such as this contribute to strengthening entrepreneurial ecosystems and empowering food producers to navigate an increasingly dynamic and competitive marketplace.

The symposium stands as an excellent example of how universities, enterprise centres, and industry organizations can work together to promote innovation, support local businesses, and create meaningful opportunities for growth within the food and beverage sector.