Call for Topics and Speakers

Help shape the 2027 NCA Convention educational program. Share what topics matter most to your business or lead the conversation as a speaker.

Topics and speakers must be submitted by October 30 to be considered for the 2027 Convention program.

NCA Convention Topic Areas

Breakout sessions focus on what’s top of mind for coffee leaders and dive deep into the issues shaping our global industry today and into the future. Here are just some of the topics we’ve covered in the past.

Commodity Markets & Forecasting

Pricing, volatility, supply/demand, macroeconomics, commodity markets, forecasting, coffee market outlooks

Regulatory & Risk

Tariffs, labeling, litigation, compliance, food safety, packaging regulation, traceability, legal risk

Supply Chain & Logistics

Ports, freight, trucking, warehousing, intermodal, procurement, origin logistics, supply resilience

Consumer Trends & Category Growth

RTD, cold coffee, single serve, private label, instant, decaf, younger consumers, retail/foodservice trends

Innovation & Operations

AI, automation, equipment, manufacturing, packaging, quality, data systems, operational efficiency

Origin, Sourcing, Experiential

Origin insights, sourcing strategy, producer perspectives, green coffee quality, sensory education, and experiential learning tied to coffee origin and product differentiation

Sustainability & Environmental Impact

Climate risk, waste reduction, environmental accountability

Don't see your topic? The Call for Topics survey includes an open field for you to propose something new.

FAQ

Who should complete the Topic Interest Survey?

The Call for Topics survey is designed for NCA members, past NCA Convention attendees, and anyone in the coffee industry who has a perspective on what topics and challenges should be addressed at the NCA Convention. You do not need to be a speaker or a subject matter expert to suggest a topic. We simply want to know what matters most to you and your business right now. The more voices we hear from, the stronger our program will be.

What is the difference between the Topic Interest Survey and the Call for Speakers?

The Topic Interest Survey is a community input survey that helps the NCA program committee understand the priorities, challenges, and interests of our membership and attendees. The Call for Speakers collects proposals from individuals who want to share their expertise in a breakout session at the Convention. You are welcome and encouraged to submit to both.

What do accepted speakers receive?

All accepted speakers receive one complimentary convention registration in recognition of their contribution to the program. NCA does not provide honoraria, travel reimbursements, or hotel accommodations. Speakers are responsible for their own travel and lodging arrangements.

Does my organization need to be an NCA member to participate as a speaker?

Membership is not required to propose a session and participate as a speaker. We welcome proposals from subject matter experts across the coffee industry and allied businesses, regardless of NCA membership status. That said, speaker selection is highly competitive, and priority is given to proposals that are most relevant to our member audience and program goals.

Is there a deadline to suggest speakers or topics?

The Topic Interest Survey and Call for Speakers will remain open to receive submissions on a rolling basis. However, only submissions made by October 30 will be considered for the 2027 program.