MASTER OF CEREMONIES

Taste NY highlights the quality, diversity, and economic impact of food and beverages grown, produced, or processed in New York State. Taste NY aims to create new opportunities for producers through events, retail locations, and partnerships.

The agricultural industry in New York State continues to grow at an exceptional rate. The state boasts more than seven million acres of farmland and 36,000 farms. It is the second largest producer of apples and maple syrup in the country, and the top honey producer in the Northeast.

Additionally, the state ranks first in the U.S. for the number of

The Long Island Food Council was created to bring people together, to create collaboration amongst food, beverage and service professionals in the region. Our members and partners are leaders in their field providing a network of experts and experience. These valuable connections enable the council to provide a platform for education and dialogue at monthly meetings and events. In recognizing the economic potential in the food and beverage industry on Long Island we continually strive to bridge the gap between our industry, academia and all levels of government.
The synergy that has been created by working together strengthens each member, fosters innovation and growth. We embrace the entrepreneurial spirit and honor excellence in business

The Urban League of Long Island is a recognized 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and an affiliate of the National Urban League, the nation’s largest civil rights and urban advocacy group. The Long Island affiliate of the National Urban League was founded in 1972 by a group of Grumman workers who couldn’t find working opportunities. They incorporated the affiliate within the terms of affiliation of the National Urban League in 1974. The Urban League employs a five-point strategy, tailored to meet the needs of our local Long Island constituency, in order to implement the mission of our Movement. The Urban League has recognized the importance of exposure and partnerships with various companies and organizations to meet the needs of communities.

Webster is a leading commercial bank that delivers financial solutions to businesses, individuals, families and partners. With over $70 billion in assets, we offer digital and traditional service delivery through our differentiated lines of business: Commercial Banking, Consumer Banking and HSA Bank, one of the country’s largest providers of employee benefits solutions.

The Workforce Development Institute (WDI) is a statewide non-profit that works to increase opportunities for all New Yorkers to succeed in the workforce while earning family-sustaining wages. We use a range of tools including “boots on the ground” information, workforce expertise, data analysis, and flexible funding to facilitate projects that help labor unions, employers, educational institutions, and other workforce partners think and act differently regarding hiring, training, educating, and retaining an inclusive and productive workforce.