"Opportunities for new ideas in the food business are enormous," says Gary Wilhelmi of Frito-Lay, Inc., one of the conference sponsors. "This event gives investors and companies alike an invitation to see food-related concepts and innovations up-close, and meet the people behind them." Other early sponsors or steering committee members include representatives from Stonegate Food and Agribusiness Partners, Texas A&M University, and the Arlington Chamber of Commerce.

Up to 20 entrepreneurs and start-up companies will be selected to make presentations to potential investors, according to Mark Perrin of McCormick, the event's manager. Presentations should include everything from packaged food products to restaurant items to fast-food concepts. "We expect to screen upwards of 100 people or small companies with new products or concepts, and then select the top 20 for presentation at the conference. Undoubtedly, we'll uncover ideas with tremendous financial possibilities," Perrin said. A committee of sponsor executives, business leaders, and educators will review all presentation applicants, and select the finalists, Perrin added.

FoodVentures 2000 will be held at the Wyndham Hotel in Arlington. Interested presenters or conference attendees can receive more information at: