Development Stage 2026

Frontiers: Coffee Beyond the Cup

Great coffee emerges from healthy ecosystems. This year we're exploring the support structures that power possibility, from sensory science, accessible healthcare, nonprofit partnerships, and the economics and environments that sustain coffee producing communities.

Chris at Development Stage
people hanging out at Development Stage

Our third annual symposium unites innovators and legends from the coffee world and beyond, joining The Crown team on the stage to discuss, collaborate, and explore what the frontiers of specialty coffee looks like.

This year's format is a little different, with a full session on Friday, September 18 and a "Public Day" on Saturday the 19th in an effort to engage, taste, think, and discuss in a more open format.

Our goal is to unite coffee makers and drinkers in unconventional coffee tastings and pairings, engaging conversations, and meaningful workshops to elevate our appreciation of coffee.

coffee pairing with chocolate

Event Overview

TimeAgenda
10:00 AMBolivian Coffee Frontiers
11:30 AMHealthcare Frontiers in the Coffeelands
1:30 PMSensory Perception of Coffee Flavor: From Chemistry to Drinking Experience
3:00 PMStrengthening Small Farm Competitiveness: Consumer-Centered Strategies for Specialty Crops
TimeAgenda
10 AMCupping Session
12 PMGrounds for Health Session
2:30 PMCollaborative Tasting Session