Natalie Shmulik is the Head of Innovation & Partnerships at JPG Resources and is a leading food and beverage trendologist- helping brands innovate for the future. Along with an M.L.A. in Gastronomy, she has a wide range of experience working with retailers, culinary publications, consumer packaged goods companies, and food service establishments. After successfully operating her own restaurant, Natalie was hired as a specialty consultant for one of Ontario’s largest supermarket chains where she enhanced consumer experiences through educational initiatives. Natalie is best known for launching and running The Hatchery Chicago, a world-renowned food and beverage incubator. With over twelve years of food incubation experience, Natalie has gained a unique perspective on the industry and what it takes to launch and grow a successful business. She is a regular contributor to industry trade publications and an adjunct professor at Boston University. She was featured in the Chicago Tribune’s 10 Business People to Watch, is a Nosh Notable, and received the Specialty Food Association’s award for leadership in vision.