MEMBERSHIP REGISTRATION/Renewal NOW OPEN
JUNE 2026 – MAY 2027
Behind every piece of produce are countless people who helped along the way – the skilled hands, sharp minds, and big hearts that comprise a critical industry in our country. SEPC brings these worlds together. Because together, we create a strong, vibrant industry now and for decades to come.
TOGETHER WE GROW HIGHER!
Please review the updated membership information on our website and select which annual membership* best suits your company's needs. Once membership status is active/renewed, company members are eligible to register for SEPC events.
*Note that our annual membership period runs June through May each year. We do not prorate our membership fees. Contact our office if you do not have a current membership or need to verify your current membership status.
**All conference attendees are required to be SEPC members in order to attend any events. SEPC conferences have their own registration and fees. Exhibitors and members receiving complimentary event access and accommodations are required to maintain a corporate membership.**
OUR SPONSORS
SEPC sponsors are an essential part of our success. Simply put, your support allows us to create greater value for our members and the produce industry through impactful networking opportunities, educational programming, leadership development, and initiatives that promote the importance of fresh produce.
In return, sponsorship provides valuable visibility for your organization throughout the year and at our premier events. It is an opportunity to strengthen your brand presence, connect with key decision-makers, and demonstrate your commitment to the industry.
The sponsorship sign up form outlines the sponsorship opportunities currently available for Southern Innovations 2026. In addition to on-site signage, all conference sponsors will be recognized in the event app, printed directory, and on the SEPC website.
To review available sponsorship levels and benefits, please visit our website.
We appreciate your continued partnership and investment in SEPC.
Together We Grow Higher!
JUNE LEVEL SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT
🌟 INVEST IN THE FUTURE 🌟
Sponsor SEPC Educational Programs!
SEPC offers exclusive sponsorship opportunities dedicated to driving our best-in-class educational programs! With different tiers available, you can directly contribute to the future education of our next generation of produce professionals.
Visit our website today to learn more about the innovative ways you can support the future of our industry and gain exposure for your organization!
JUNE FUTURE OF INDUSTRY SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT
🎸 REGISTER NOW FOR SOUTHERN INNOVATIONS—Where Innovation Takes Center Stage! 🌟
Get ready to see the produce industry in a whole new light!
From September 9–12, 2026, the Southeast Produce Council is taking over the Music City Center in Nashville, Tennessee, for an unforgettable Southern Innovations experience. This year, we’re celebrating the bold, bright, and brilliant innovations driving our industry forward. Just like the glowing marquees of Broadway, the future of produce is vibrant—and it's waiting for you in Music City.
Nashville is a hot ticket, and our room blocks will go faster than a guitar solo! Secure your registration and housing today to ensure you’re center stage for the most innovative experience in the Southeast!
⚠️ACT FAST: LIMITED EXHIBIT SPACE AVAILABLE⚠️
To maintain the intimate atmosphere and high-quality networking our members value, exhibit space is strictly limited. We anticipate a complete sell-out, and booths are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Secure your presence today to ensure your brand has the opportunity to shine!
✨ LIGHT UP THE INDUSTRY BY FEATURING YOUR BRAND ALONG OUR WALL OF INNOVATIONS!✨
Is your company launching a groundbreaking new product, sustainable packaging, or a cutting-edge tech solution? Don't let your hard work go unnoticed—give it the spotlight it deserves at Southern Innovations 2026!
We are officially inviting you to feature your latest advancements along our Wall of Innovations. This premier showcase is the first stop for attendees looking to see the advancements driving the future of produce.
Why Showcase with Us?
The Wall of Innovations is a high-traffic, illuminated display designed to put your brand front and center. It’s more than just a display; it’s a dedicated space for the industry’s boldest ideas.
The Details
- Exclusive Price: $500
- Case Dimensions: 37” W x 13” H x 25.5" D
- Premium Features: All shelves include professional lighting to make your product pop, and cases remain locked for security throughout the event.
- Limited Opportunity: To ensure a diverse range of innovations, space is limited to one (1) case per company on a first-come, first-served basis.
How to Secure Your Space
- Register: As you register for Southern Innovations, select "Wall of Innovations" as one of your sessions.
- Submit Your Info: As you register, you will receive access to our submission link. You’ll need to provide one (1) high-resolution product image and a brief description (50 words or less) for our official conference materials.
Deadline to Purchase & Submit: July 10, 2026 *Please note: Refunds will not be issued after the July 10th deadline. Purchases made after this date will not be included in the printed conference directory.
DIGITAL TOOLKIT
The SEPC is thrilled to unveil our latest Digital Toolkit! We invite you to utilize these bold, bright, and brilliant promotional assets to share your excitement as we prepare to light up Music City. Let’s make some noise for Southern Innovations!
Don't miss your chance to stand out in Nashville. Let’s show the industry what the future looks like.
TOGETHER, LET'S LIGHT UP THE INDUSTRY—TOGETHER WE GROW HIGHER!
The Unseen Hero Award honors individuals who work behind the scenes in the produce industry, recognizing their dedication, impact, and essential contributions. Our mission is to celebrate these heroes, fostering appreciation throughout the industry.
We are now accepting nominations for The Unseen Hero Award! If you know someone whose dedication, hard work, and contributions deserve to be recognized, we encourage you to submit a nomination.
Award Criteria
Nominees should exemplify:
- Dedication & Commitment – A strong work ethic and long-term contributions to their role.
- Impact & Influence – Significant contributions that improve their company, team, or the industry.
- Leadership & Initiative – Going above and beyond their responsibilities.
- Collaboration & Teamwork – Supporting colleagues and fostering a positive work environment.
- Integrity & Values – Embodying the core values of SEPC and the produce industry.
How to Nominate:
- Submit your nomination by July 17, 2026 using the link below.
- Nominations must include details on the nominee’s role, impact, and why they deserve to be honored. Supporting documents such as testimonials or letters of recommendation are encouraged but not required.
Help us shine a light on the incredible individuals who make a difference every day. We look forward to celebrating these Unseen Heroes at Southern Innovations 2026.
SEPC recently concluded its STEP-UPP Foodservice Class summer tour, providing a group of rising industry leaders with an intensive, hands-on deep dive into the produce supply chain.
STEP-UPP—short for Southeast Training Education Program for Upcoming Produce Professionals—is the SEPC’s flagship educational initiative. The program is designed to bridge the gap between the field and the fork, equipping retail and foodservice professionals with a comprehensive perspective through strategic leadership development and direct field-based training.
The tour kicked off on Tuesday, May 12th, with an exclusive backstage tour experience at the Chick-fil-A Support Center. Participants gained firsthand insights into the innovative operations of one of the nation's leading foodservice brands. The momentum continued with a series of facility and field tours hosted by SEPC level sponsors Local Bounti and Pure Flavor, showcasing the latest advancements in controlled-environment agriculture and greenhouse growing.
On Wednesday, the educational journey shifted gears with a visit to a state-of-the-art watermelon packing house, hosted by the National Watermelon Promotion Board. The day continued into the fields with immersive tours provided by Alpine Fresh and Southern Valley Fruit and Vegetable, Inc. These visits with SEPC level sponsors allowed participants to witness the complexities of harvesting and packing, further strengthening the vital bond between growers and foodservice providers.
The tour reached its peak on Thursday with a visit to SEPC level sponsor Grimmway Produce Group, where the class explored large-scale organic and conventional production. As the group gathered to reflect on the week’s experiences, the common thread was one of gratitude for the transparency and mentorship provided by the host companies.
“Once again, our students immersed themselves in learning what it takes to maintain a consistent supply of fresh produce for customers. They experienced firsthand a wide range of operations, from fully hands-on environments to highly automated facilities. Over the course of three days, the students’ questions remained thoughtful and engaging, while the passion of the growers was evident in every interaction. Their dedication was clear—not only to their craft, but also to the land and the communities they serve. We greatly appreciate the continued support of our SEPC member partners, who play such an important role in educating and inspiring this next generation of up-and-coming produce professionals.” David Verdrager | SEPC STEP-UPP Foodservice Committee Co-Chair | RPE
“It was excellent seeing the excitement to learn amongst our students. Throughout the program, they’ve really been able to deepen their knowledge about the industry and about the work growers do to feed the world. We’re thankful to our SEPC member partners who make this program possible and to all our hosts, who were gracious enough to share their time with us and show their operations.” Heather Hart | STEP-UPP Foodservice Committee Co-Chair | Baldor
“Another successful STEP-UPP Foodservice farm tour is in the books! Our 2026 class had a fantastic time learning first-hand from our sponsor growers of South Georgia what it takes to bring fresh produce to market. The education program continues to grow, drilling into the ‘day to day’ fundamental operations of each farm, including the unique challenges the entire farming community faces daily – labor costs, seed and varietal development, and input costs such as fertilizers and packaging. Every trip has a unique takeaway that resonates with our class in its own special way. We are extremely thankful for the continued support of this education program by our SEPC partners.” Rob Bonghi | SEPC Board Member | STEP-UPP Foodservice Committee Co-Chair | Fresh Alliance
The SEPC extends a sincere thank you to our Future of Industry sponsors whose generous support makes this program possible: Divine Flavor, Fresh Alliance, Mid-State Produce, Nature Fresh Farms, Nickey Gregory Company, NPC Powered by Foodbuy, RPE, Shuman Farms, Southern Specialties, Southern Valley, and Vick Family Farms.
The STEP-UPP Foodservice Class of 2026 will celebrate their hard work and official graduation this September during Southern Innovations in Nashville, Tennessee.
APPLY NOW for one of our 2027 STEP-UPP Classes
The STEP-UPP Foodservice class targets professionals in broadline foodservice companies that provide food and non-food products to restaurants, cafeterias, industrial caterers, and hotels and also in chain foodservice companies which include restaurants, hotels, industrial caterers, cafeterias, and meal box subscription companies. Foodservice participants will attend two tours in February and May, with attendance at both Southern Exposure and Southern Innovations required.
The STEP-UPP Retail class is designed for professionals from full-service retail chains that sell food directly to consumers, such as grocery stores, convenience stores, and club stores. Participants will gain valuable industry insights through two tours in April and June. Attendance at both Southern Exposure and Southern Innovations is required.
Share Your Expertise!
The Southeast Produce Council invites you to share your expertise as a presenter during our STEP-UPP Virtual Education Days. These sessions provide class participants with valuable insights into all aspects of the produce industry — from growing and harvesting to distribution, marketing, and emerging trends.
Unlike our in-person tours, Virtual Education Day presentations are open to companies nationwide. This is a unique opportunity to showcase your knowledge and highlight your company’s role in the supply chain, regardless of location.
To ensure these sessions are as impactful as possible, we kindly ask that presentations remain educational in nature rather than promotional. The goal is to equip participants with tools, insights, and real-world knowledge they can carry forward in their careers.
We encourage presentations that may include:
📹Virtual field or facility tours🏭
🌱💡Educational sessions on sustainability, innovation, or retail/foodservice trends📈
🎯🚚Insights into marketing, distribution, or processing practices ⚙️
🧠Other impactful topics that provide learning and leadership development🌟
Thank you for helping us inspire and equip the next generation of leaders in the fresh produce industry. Together, we grow higher!
As part of our SEPC Cares commitment to giving back, we are seeking support for our Good Seeds Buckets and Strong Roots, Strong Heart initiatives. These bags and buckets are filled with essential items for the homeless, and your support will have a meaningful impact on those in need.
In appreciation of your generosity, we will send you a copy of our new book, For the Love of Produce - Southeast Produce Council's Culture and Spirit, which features personal stories and experiences from our members.
We encourage you to join us in making a difference in our community—because Together, We Grow Higher!
COMMUNITY UPDATES
This month, we are excited to shine a spotlight on our incredible charitable partner, Palmer Home for Children! For generations, Palmer Home has operated as a faith-based organization dedicated to providing a safe, loving, and supportive environment for children in need—regardless of race, gender, or background. By focusing on everything from physical care to deep emotional and spiritual support, they offer holistic healing that helps each child grow into exactly who God created them to be.
🌼🌿THE HOPE GROWS GARDEN 🌿🌼
A beautiful cornerstone of our partnership is the Hope Grows Garden, proudly sponsored by SEPC. This therapeutic space harnesses the healing power of nature to encourage personal growth, restoration, and a deeper connection to the earth. Filled with vibrant fruit bushes, blooming flowers, and rows of fresh produce, it is a sanctuary where hope takes root and blossoms daily.
We invite you to learn more about the incredible impact of the Hope Grows Garden and how nature is playing a vital role in a child’s journey toward healing.
Alongside the garden, SEPC is proud to continuously support:
✨ The Annual Palmer Home Radiothon – Raising vital funds to keep their mission moving forward.
📚 Ag Literacy Programs – Educating the next generation on the importance of food, farming, and the supply chain.
🗓️ SAVE THE DATE! 🗓️
"I’m excited to share that we have confirmed the date for our 2026 Radiothon — Thursday, July 16. We are incredibly thankful for your generous $25,000 gift and are thrilled to announce your match sponsorship during the live broadcast. Your continued support makes such a meaningful impact on the success of this day and on our mission." — Sarah Zambroni, Sr. Director of Development, Palmer Home for Children
🏃🏼CALLING ALL SEPC SUPERHEROES! 🏃🏼♀️
The Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta tradition lives on at Piedmont Park, Saturday, June 6, with the family-friendly Strong4Life Superhero Sprint 5K and 1-mile Fun Run. Use your superpowers to walk, run, roll, sprint or fly to the finish line, and don’t miss out on all the fun before and after the race, there's something for everyone* at Superhero Sprint.
All proceeds benefit Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Strong4Life, whose mission is to make kids better today and healthier tomorrow.
We invite you to join our team as we support this super benefit, and as an SEPC member, family member, employee, or co-worker, you will receive free registration and a complimentary t-shirt. Use discount code SEPC2026 to receive free registration.
Or if you aren’t up for the run, but would like to help out, we encourage you to make a donation to this worthy cause. Your tax-deductible donations go towards helping children and their families that need a little hope.
*Superhero Sprint is stroller- and pet-friendly.
VOLUNTEER OR DONATE PRODUCT FOR THE COMMUNITY PRODUCE DRIVE
For several years, Southeast Produce Council has served as the Title Sponsor of the Strong4Life Superhero Sprint and gives away fresh, complimentary produce to event attendees.
If you are interested in volunteering at our booth, please reach out to Molly Edenfield Farrow and plan to meet us at Piedmont Park (Charles Allen Drive gate entrance in Atlanta, Georgia) around 6:00 am Saturday morning.
We also welcome product donations to pass out to attendees before, during, and after the race. Please contact Blair Greenhill to make donation arrangements prior to June 3rd.
We’re thankful for the generous support and hope that you all are able to join us!
SEPC VOLUNTEERS & DONATIONS NEEDED!
SEPC, Society of St. Andrew, and Atrium Health are teaming up once again for our Annual Food Distribution Event in Macon, Georgia!
📅 Friday, June 12th
🕰️ 9:00 am – 12:00 pm (Volunteer Time: 6:00 am – 1:30 pm)
📍Location: Central Georgia Technical College | 3300 Macon Tech Dr | Macon, GA 31206
This high-energy day is a vital extension of our mission to improve the health of our neighbors by sharing a massive bounty of fresh produce. But we can't do it without the Southeast’s finest growers!! Whether you’re a fresh face or a returning friend, join us for our best and most fun event yet.
VOLUNTEER WITH US
If you are able to volunteer, please sign up below:
To reserve your event volunteer T-Shirt, please contact Angela Partain by June 1st.
PRODUCE DONATIONS
If you are able to donate produce, please contact Kelly Stainner Butler to make donation arrangements prior to June 8th.
Receiving Dates: June 8th – 10th
Consolidation Locations:
Florida – Mack Farms & Freshway Produce
Georgia – Genuine Georgia & Nickey Gregory Company
We’re thankful for the generous support and hope that you all are able to join us!
"The 2026 Paul Anderson Golf Classic was a day to remember—filled with great competition, strong fellowship, and a shared commitment to changing young lives. From the first tee shot to the final putt, the course was alive with energy as teams came together in support of the mission of Paul Anderson Youth Home. More than just a tournament, the day reflected the power of community—partners, sponsors, and friends in making a lasting impact. Because of your support, we continue to provide hope, healing, and a brighter future for the young men we serve. Thank you to everyone who played, sponsored, and helped make this event such a success!"
🪴CULTIVATING HOPE & COMMUNITY AT THE PAUL ANDERSON YOUTH HOME GOODNESS GARDEN🪴
What an unforgettable day of celebration, education, and giving back! On May 28th, our SEPC family gathered at the Paul Anderson Youth Home for the official Goodness Garden Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. It was a beautiful morning celebrating the hard work of these young men, and generous contributions of our members, but the blessings didn’t stop there.
We are deeply grateful to our amazing industry partners who made this day extra special: Andrew Scott of Nickey Gregory Company presented a generous donation to PAYH's Pack the Pantry program, ensuring these young men continue to have access to fresh, nutritious food. Eric Ayers of Ossid led an incredibly educational and meaningful Ag in the Classroom experience, teaching the students about the vital role of technology and packaging in agriculture and sharing his inspiring testimony of being tethered to Christ no matter where you are in life.
From planting seeds in the dirt to planting seeds of faith and future leadership, yesterday was a perfect reflection of what it means to give back. Thank you to everyone who joined us, volunteered, and continues to support this life-changing ministry!
To learn more about SEPC Cares and how you can join the Southeast Produce Council in giving back to the community by educating others about the benefits of healthy eating and habits, click the link below.
2026 SEPC Sustainability Webinar Series
This year’s lineup is designed to meet members where they are—whether you’re just beginning your sustainability journey or looking to dive deeper into data-driven solutions and best practices across the supply chain.
Each webinar will focus on a key sustainability topic impacting the fresh produce industry. While speakers, session content, and learning objectives will be shared closer to each event, we encourage you to preregister now using the individual links below to secure your spot.
SUSTAINABILITY 101
An introductory session designed for individuals new to sustainability or those looking to build a strong foundational understanding. The webinar covers key topics including packaging, waste, integrated pest management, energy and carbon emissions, social responsibility, logistics and transportation, water stewardship, deforestation, and biodiversity.
REGENERATIVE & CLIMATE-SMART AGRICULTURE
📅JULY 29, 2026 🕐12:00 PM EST An overview of regenerative agriculture and climate-smart ag practices, including how these approaches support long-term resilience and environmental stewardship, along with the economic considerations associated with their adoption.
GHG EMISSIONS
📅OCTOBER 28, 2026 🕐1:00 PM EST A deeper look at greenhouse gas emissions, with a focus on carbon measurement, reduction strategies, and available tools.
We hope you’ll join us for these timely and educational conversations as we continue working together to grow a more sustainable produce industry.
Visit our SEPC University resource site for session recordings and more!
The Southeast Produce Council (SEPC) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 SEPC Member Scholarship. This year, the council is pleased to award 45 scholarships, totaling $67,500, made possible by the unwavering support and dedication of its membership base.
Aligned with the SEPC’s commitment – “Together, We Grow Higher," this scholarship program supports the academic journeys of students within the produce family. To qualify, applicants must be children or grandchildren of a corporate member in good standing who has personally attended at least one SEPC event within the last 12 months. Additionally, students must be enrolled full-time with a minimum of 12 semester hours and undergo a rigorous review by the SEPC Scholarship Committee.
A cornerstone of the application process is the annual essay to be reviewed by members of the SEPC Scholarship Committee. The 2026 topic, "Farmers as the Backbone of America," challenged students to explore the multifaceted roles of growers. From entrepreneurs and innovators to environmental stewards and guardians of food security, the essays highlighted how farmers nourish communities and the nation. Applicants discussed the values of resilience and hard work that ensure America remains fed today and for generations to come.
“Our members are the heart of this council, and it is an honor to give back to their families,” said David Sherrod, SEPC President & CEO. “These 45 recipients represent the bright future of our industry and our country. Their insights into the vital role of the American farmer were truly inspiring.”
Recipients receive a $1,500 scholarship. While past recipients are eligible to reapply provided they maintain a 3.0 GPA, the committee gives first preference to new applicants to ensure the broadest possible impact.
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2026 SEPC MEMBER SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS!
The SEPC extends a sincere thank you to all 2026 applicants for their hard work and impressive submissions.
Nolan Family Foundation Scholarship
This scholarship was established to memorialize Jim Nolan, who took an ethical stand on a business matter at great cost to himself. As a result of his professional ethics, Nolan was ostracized by colleagues and remained isolated in his efforts to maintain moral integrity in his workplace. It would have taken only a few others with the courage to speak out to change the course of events. Tragically, Jim died before the trial that finally vindicated his actions by a judge and a jury of 13 who found in his favor.
Our sincere thanks to Theresa Nolan for providing this scholarship to the members of the Southeast Produce Council. She is a lifetime member of the SEPC and is always available to lend a helping hand wherever needed.
Scholarship Details
One college-aged student (graduating high school senior or current college student) will receive a one-time scholarship of $5,000 to their enrolling college/university. The scholarship will be awarded based on GPA (3.0 or higher), references, and quality of essay.
The application can only be submitted online through our link which was provided beginning May 11, 2026. The application deadline is June 26, 2026 at 5pm EST.
Visit our website for more scholarship information!
JUNE TRIVIA QUESTION
Be the first to answer correctly and win a $25 gift card!
June is peak season for the world-famous Vidalia Onion. By Georgia law, this "Sweet Onion" can only be grown in a specific 20-county region. In what year was the Vidalia Onion officially named Georgia's State Vegetable?
A) 1986
B) 1990
C) 1994
D) 2002
Extra Fun Fact: They can only be grown in Georgia because of the unique low-sulfur soil found in those 20 counties!
Contact Us!
242 North Masonic Street | Millen, GA 30442 | 877.720.SEPC (7372) | info@seproducecouncil.com