J.E.D.I Collaborative & Packaging Collaborative Events at Expo West

Anaheim, California

March 9th - 11th

J.E.D.I Collaborative 

Wednesday, March 9th, 10 am - 2 pm PST

Grand Ballroom F, Anaheim Marriott

RSVP Here

J.E.D.I. Keynote: The Call for Systemic Change in the Natural Products Industry

10:00 - 10:25 am 

The natural products industry has long been a leader in promoting products that are better for people and the planet, but too many have been left out. It’s imperative that this industry recognizes the need for systemic change. It’s not only possible to operate a more just, equitable, diverse, and inclusive organization, but the benefits of doing so are far-reaching. Hear stories from CEO/Founders in the natural products industry that illustrate the need for systemic change in the industry and how they’re successfully taking a more equitable and inclusive approach to business.

J.E.D.I Pathways to Action & Leadership Reflections

10:30 - 11:15 am 

In 2019, One Step Closer formed its J.E.D.I Collaborative with the vision of sparking action within the natural products industry toward embedding justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in the entire food ecosystem. J.E.D.I Collaborative offers Pathways to Action, powerful programming designed for the natural products industry that supports CPG businesses in implementing holistic JEDI initiatives and dismantling exclusionary practices. In this session, you’ll learn about the four J.E.D.I Collaborative Pathways to Action, hear from current past and current participants, and learn how you can start to take action in your company and beyond.

"What If" with MaryAnne Howland

11:20 - 11:30 am 

What if the Fortune 500 was made up of natural products industry businesses? What if natural foods and products were accessible to all communities, especially those that have been historically underrepresented? In this conversation, Maryanne Howland will help us imagine the journey we all can partake in towards a healthier and more equitable society and industry.

Defining Moments: CEOs Share Values

11:30 am - 12:10 pm

To be successful, JEDI initiatives must be embedded holistically into an organization; starting with the CEO playing an active role. Bringing executives into the work is key to ensuring an enduring commitment to a more inclusive and equitable workplace culture as well as upholding accountability and transparency across the organization. In this session, hear from CEOs that are actively engaged in JEDI work and how their journey has impacted their brands’ from the ground up.

Centering the Consumer: Bringing Products to a Wider Audience

12:30 - 1:15 pm

The data is clear: At every level of business a commitment to JEDI principles fosters long-term growth and innovation, while also building healthier communities. Focusing on equity and inclusion in new product development, sales, and marketing can help organizations in developing innovative products, opening up new markets, and reaching a wider customer base. Learn from brand leaders how building JEDI principles into a company’s DNA can lead to a more equitable food system and a more regenerative bottom line.

Building a Bigger Table Workshop: Creating Equitable Access to Financing for Emerging Brands

1:20 - 2:00 pm

Join a discussion between leaders of emerging brands and investors as they address gaps in fundraising opportunities for people of historically marginalized groups. How best can investors create pathways toward continuous sustainable growth for all founders and CEOs?

Packaging Collaborative: Education & Activism - Campaigning for a Zero Waste Packaging Future

March 10th, 12:00 - 1:00 pm PST

Grand Ballroom E, Anaheim Marriott

In January of this year, One Step Closer (OSC) launched its newest impact campaign, which focuses on advancing circular packaging solutions to move toward a zero-waste future.

OSC's goal for the campaign was to create a platform for action and generate inspiration for the reduction and/or elimination of single-use plastics in products, packaging and personal lives. By engaging consumers with educational resources across various social media platforms, driving policy awareness and advocacy through their partners at ASBN, and mobilizing industry stakeholders to commit to sustainable packaging transitions in 2022, OSC is seeing that goal come to life.

One Step Closer Leadership Community Breakfast at Expo East

March 11th, 8:00 am PST

Register here

Companies collaborating to support regenerative business models, food system leadership, sustainable packaging, climate resiliency, soil health, and Justice, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion - Our collective action brings us One Step Closer to manifesting our common vision of a more regenerative, just and prosperous world.

Join us for a special gathering to shine a light on our leaders and Collaborations!

Featuring light breakfast fare from OSC members. This signature One Step Closer event is free to attend.