The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) has unveiled an exciting new concept for the Re:co Symposium ahead of the 2025 Specialty Coffee Expo in Houston. Named “Spotlight”, this initiative represents a fresh approach to tackling the pressing challenges of the specialty coffee industry. Designed as an interactive, hands-on engagement, Spotlight aims to bring together a small group of experts and passionate participants to collaboratively address complex questions surrounding the identity of green coffee.

Shaping the Future of Green Coffee Identity

As the specialty coffee industry continues to evolve, so does the SCA’s Re:co experience. Spotlight, a concentrated engagement activity, is set to redefine the way the coffee community collaborates to create a shared understanding of critical topics like green coffee identity. Participants will delve into economic, ethical, legal, and human considerations, contributing their expertise to help shape the future of the industry.

This exclusive gathering will take place April 23–24, 2025, just before the Specialty Coffee Expo in Houston. It will prioritize small group discussions, presentations, tastings, and collaborative exercises designed to foster innovative solutions and build a common language around green coffee identity.

Who Should Apply?

Spotlight is open to practicing coffee processors, producing institutions, subject matter experts, and passionate individuals who can demonstrate a strong connection between green coffee identity and their work. Applicants should reflect on how the outcomes of this activity might directly impact their roles or perspectives within the industry.

Given the interactive nature of the event, participation is highly selective, with only a limited number of applicants being invited. The selection process will ensure a diverse range of voices and perspectives, enriching the dialogue and fostering meaningful collaboration.

Time Commitment and Expectations

Participants will engage in preparatory activities before the event, including community discussions, a categorization exercise, and approximately an hour of pre-reading. During the event, attendees will participate in tastings, presentations, and small group exercises, ultimately contributing to the larger discussion. After the event, participants will be expected to share insights with their communities and stakeholders to advance the development of green coffee identity.

Application Process

Applications are now open, with the selection process managed by the Re:co Symposium Team and the SCA Standards Development Panel. Notifications will be sent to successful applicants by February 2025, depending on the number of applications received. Selected participants must complete their registration, including a nominal fee of $75, within five working days of notification.

Looking Ahead: Expanding Re:co’s Reach

The SCA is committed to fostering innovation and collaboration in the specialty coffee sector. Following the success of initiatives like Retail Buyers Lounge and Green Coffee Connect, Spotlight marks another milestone in Re:co’s evolution. Plans are underway to expand this interactive, problem-solving approach to a broader audience in 2026, with more details to be shared in the coming months.

For those passionate about shaping the future of specialty coffee, Spotlight offers a unique opportunity to engage with like-minded individuals and drive meaningful change. Apply now and be part of the conversation that will help redefine the coffee industry’s future.