The premier opportunity for emerging pet brands to debut innovative products in front of top industry executives — Pitchfest 2027 is designed to help promising new brands accelerate their path to market by connecting them with key distribution partners.
Pitchfest 2027 is open to all Leadership Summit attendees. This session provides exclusive, early access to some of the pet industry's most exciting emerging brands and products —so distributor attendees, in particular — are encouraged to participate. By attending and supporting these rising companies, you position your business at the forefront of innovation and gain a firsthand look at potential future bestsellers.
Join us for the Pitchfest Networking Reception in the Las Olas Foyer immediately following the presentations. You will meet the entrepreneurs, experience the products firsthand, and connect with fellow distributors, manufacturers and retailers. Enjoy a drink, expand your network and discover your next great business partnership.
Application Requirements
New brands seeking to sell to independent retailers through distribution may apply. New brands currently working with one or two distributors and looking to expand their distribution network will also be considered. Brands do not need to be a member of APPA, PIDA or WPA .
Applications will be reviewed by a committee of PIDA Distributor Board Members. ONLY SEVEN companies will be selected to be presenters based on their commercial viability and product-market fit. Those selected will be notified no later than Dec. 4.
Along with submitting your Pitchfest application, you must register to attend the Leadership Summit. As a Pitchfest participant, you'll get a discounted rate of $995. If you are not selected to present, you will have the option of getting a refund or having this fee applied to the appropriate attendance rate (regular or first-time company discounted rate).
Value-Added Media Exposure
We are once again partnering with PETS+ to provide value-added media exposure for Pitchfest participants with 60-90 second “show and tell” videos to be filmed onsite during the Leadership Summit. Details will be provided when the presenters are notified.
Main Stage Presentation Guidelines
Presentations will be strictly limited to 10 minutes. Q&A will be reserved for the Pitchfest Networking Reception immediately following the presentations.
A projector will be provided for presentations if needed. Presenters are limited to one (1) product sample and one (1) marketing handout. No banners, booths or large signs will be permitted.
PIDA has outlined a 5-phase, step-by-step process that vendors should follow to present themselves as reliable partners and increase their chances of securing a distribution agreement. Review our New Manufacturer Checklist here.
Please contact Nina Bull with questions.