IGCAT competitions & initiatives

IGCAT develops and runs a suite of programs that spotlight reinterpreted tradition, sustainability, and young talent:

• European Young Chef Award – a challenge for young chefs to reimagine heritage dishes in a contemporary key, using local products and responsible practices.
• World Food Gift Challenge – an international showcase for the most inspired food gifts and artisan products from member regions.
• Top Websites for Foodie Travelers – an annual selection of digital platforms that connect travelers to authentic, sustainable culinary experiences.
• Food Film Menu – a curated collection of short films telling stories of food, place, and people.

Alongside these sits the World Gastronomy Summit, IGCAT’s annual gathering that brings together leaders, chefs, producers, and policymakers to shape shared directions and declarations on the role of food in sustainable development.

The World/European Regions of Gastronomy Platform

The Regions of Gastronomy Platform is how IGCAT facilitates knowledge exchange, joint projects, and shared visibility among candidate and awarded regions. Through regular meetings, themed exchanges, and co-branded campaigns, the Platform accelerates collaboration (routes, residencies, co-marketing) and turns lessons from one region into resources for all.

Why it matters for Banat 2028. Working with IGCAT connects Banat to a global ecosystem: the title comes with clear standards and a learning pathway, while our projects can plug into international circuits—from the European Young Chef Award and World Food Gift Challenge to Top Websites for Foodie Travelers and the World Gastronomy Summit. In this way, our traditions gain a larger stage and local innovation finds partners and audiences beyond our borders.