James B. Beam Institute Industry Conference

James B. Beam Institute Industry Conference

2026 Beam Institute Industry Conference

March 16 – 18, 2026

The University of Kentucky James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits Industry Conference brings thought leaders from around the world together to share best practices, introduce cutting-edge research, explore new discoveries and advance the sustainable growth of the spirits industry. 

Conference topics range from innovation and technical research to marketing and tourism as well as workforce education and corporate citizenship.

The annual conference will be held on the University of Kentucky’s campus. Such a venue creates an opportunity for conference-goers to network and build collaborative partnerships that further advance the growth and sustainability of Kentucky’s signature industry and the spirits sector worldwide.

Join us for the next conference March 16-18, 2026. Check back for more information. Registration opens in December 2025.

Call for Speakers

Submit a proposal for a full presentation, poster presentation or Pecha Kucha presentation by September 15, 2025.

Learn More and Submit

2025 Recap

Recap the 2025 conference by reviewing the agenda.

Review the 2025 Conference Agenda

Event Photos

Relive the 2025 conference with photos from the event.

Browse 2025 Conference Photos

Partner & Vendor Info

2026 vendor booth information and partnership opportunities will be released in September 2025.

View the 2025 Brochure

Questions?

Ilka Balk

Associate Director

(859) 218-6655 ilka.balk@uky.edu James B. Beam Institute for KY Spirits 1320 Nicholasville Road Lexington, KY 40546

Connect With Us

Keep up with the James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits on Facebook, X, Instagram and Linkedin.

Contact Information

Seth DeBolt, Ph.D.
Director

309 Plant Science Building Lexington, KY 40546-0312

beaminstitute@uky.edu