The International Baking Industry Exposition (IBIE), the Western Hemisphere’s largest baking industry event, has opened its call for submissions for the IBIE World Bread Awards USA, crafted by The Bread Bakers Guild of America (BBGA) and the Retail Bakers of America (RBA).

Set to take place in Chicago at the Washburne Culinary & Hospitality Institute on October 7-8, 2024, this highly-anticipated competition celebrates the art and skill of bread-making, offering bakers a platform to showcase their talents to a broader audience. Bakers from across the nation are invited to demonstrate their exceptional skills and creativity in 15 categories, including baguettes, bagels and sourdough, while competing for specialty awards such as Showstopper (Savory or Sweet), Home Baker and Student Baker.

“American bakers are some of the best when it comes to incorporating both tradition and innovation in their breads,” says Karen Bornarth, executive director of BBGA. “We are so excited to see and taste that approach at work in all categories of the competition.”

To participate, bakers must submit their entries through the official World Bread Awards USA website. Each entry will be carefully judged by a panel of esteemed baking industry experts who will evaluate the bread based on taste, texture, appearance and overall quality. Winners will receive prestigious titles, trophies, cash prizes and extensive media exposure, enhancing their reputation within the industry. The event will also host hands-on workshops and seminars by BBGA and RBA.

The deadline for submission is September 30, the judging period will take place between October 1-7, workshops and seminars will take place on October 7 and the awards ceremony will be held on October 8.

"The partnership between IBIE and the World Bread Awards was a huge success at IBIE 2022. We’re thrilled to continue this relationship and bring this celebrated competition to Chicagoland bakers during IBIE's off years," says Marissa Sertich Velie, executive director of RBA and IBIE Planning Committee Member.

Sponsorships for this year’s event are available. For more information and to submit an entry, prospective participants can visit World Bread Awards USA 2024.