The food and beverage industry doesn’t stop serving New Yorkers when dinner is over. Neither do the state’s 30,000+ farms, or its over 500+ breweries and distilleries. Long after the dishes and glasses are cleared, this economic engine creates jobs, drives growth, and strengthens local communities. It also provides opportunities to suppliers in sectors like automation, cybersecurity, and fabrication.
In New York State, this economic ecosystem is bigger and broader than you might think. To connect the various links in the supply chain, FuzeHub helps organize Vitality in the Valley each year. This Manufacturing Expo is scheduled for June 2-3, 2026, at Herkimer College in Herkimer New York. Whether you join us as an exhibitor or as an attendee, it’s an event you won’t want to miss.
Why Exhibit at Vitality in the Valley?
Vitality in the Valley features an exhibit hall where you’ll find farmers, processors, co-packers, suppliers, fabrication shops, funders, technology providers, and food and beverage brands. As an exhibitor, you’ll be part of the action and have a table where you can showcase your products and expertise. Importantly, exhibitors can gain direct access to decision makers who are making sourcing decisions.
At last year’s event, Monica Cody of Farmstead 1868 met distributors, buyers, and potential resources that can support business growth. “We’ve made a ton of great contacts both for now and the future,” she explained. Melanie and Phil Metzer of Pep Schmear sold jars of their spicy pepper spread and made a retail connection that now carries its product.
As an exhibitor at Vitality in the Valley, you’ll also gain access to an exclusive reception on the evening of Tuesday, June 2nd. Along with local cuisine and beverages, you’ll make connections that can lead to partnerships, pilot projects, and new business. It’s also a strategic opportunity to prepare for the following day, when the exhibit hall opens and attendees arrive.
Why Attend Vitality in the Valley?
Vitality in the Valley attendees can discover New York-made food and beverage products and connect with companies that are shaping how we eat and drink. Whether you’re a buyer, a distributor, a policymaker, or simply someone who cares about local agriculture, this enjoyable and informative event offers something for everyone.
Panel discussions and keynote addresses are part of the action. Last year, the keynote address came from Richard A. Ball, Commissioner of the New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets. The panel breakout session covered topics ranging from funding and distribution to manufacturing growth and sustainability with leaders from the public, private, and university sectors.
If you’re hungry for business growth or thirsting for new opportunities, Vitality in the Valley 2026 is an event you won’t want to miss. Whether it’s as an exhibitor or an attendee, register now and join us in Herkimer, New York this June. As Frank Yerina of Garlic Delite Farms said of last year’s event, “I am glad I actually signed up and it turned out to be a good day.”