The U.S. Dry Bean Council is joining other commodity organizations in modifying its annual meeting during the COVID-19 pandemic. The council announced it will transition BeanCon21—its inaugural global dry bean event—to a fully virtual experience, scheduled for March 2-4, 2021.

American Farm Bureau Federation announced earlier this month that its 102^nd annual convention will be its first virtual convention. The convention is Jan. 10-13, 2021. The National Cattlemen's Beef Association, on the other hand, decided to delay its annual convention and trade show to August.

The USDBC made the decision to adopt a virtual format given the realities of the ongoing pandemic and the limitations on global travel. Although the event will look different, the USDBC is confident that this first-ever, global event focused entirely on dry beans will be an impactful gathering of dry bean buyers and stakeholders from across the industry.

BeanCon21 speakers will include U.S. growers, global influencers, foodservice experts, corporate leaders and government officials.

“While we would have loved to meet in person, we are excited about the opportunity to connect virtually and share the incredible innovations happening in the U.S. and global bean industries with an even broader audience,” said USDBC Executive Director Rebecca Bratter. “Hosting the event in this format will allow us to take attendees places we otherwise may not have been able to go—from farmers’ fields to research and processing facilities to chefs’ kitchens and more. We are looking forward to opportunities to connect with global buyers again in-person when it’s feasible to do so.”

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