Fifth International Pawpaw Conference

“Cultivating Excellence: The Next Chapter in Pawpaw Development”

September 9th — 11th, 2025
Frankfort, Kentucky

The 5th International Pawpaw Conference will be held September 9th — 11th, 2025, in Frankfort, Kentucky. The Conference will be sponsored by the Kentucky State University Land Grant Program, the North American Pawpaw Growers Association, and the Ohio Pawpaw Festival. Themed “Cultivating Excellence: The Next Chapter in Pawpaw Development,” the Conference will feature in-depth discussions on emerging and historical pawpaw cultivars, innovative breeding approaches, and the development of a comprehensive pawpaw registry. This event presents a unique opportunity for scientists, nursery owners, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts to exchange knowledge and insights on the breeding, production, and a range of applications for pawpaw.

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Highlights of the Conference:

• Expert presentations on pawpaw breeding, production, and uses
• A poster session and a show-and-tell session for participants to share research or growing experiences
• A pawpaw tasting experience
• A tour of the Kentucky State University pawpaw orchards
• A pre-conference tour of England’s Orchard & Nursery in McKee, Kentucky, on September 9 (optional)

The Conference will feature a number of invited speakers and will be limited to 200 attendees.

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Poster or Oral Presentation Submission

If you would like to request to present a poster or give an oral presentation on your work and interest in pawpaw at the conference, please use the submission form in the link below and submit it to the email listed on the form:

Submission Form

Call for Abstracts and Poster or Oral Presentation Abstract Submission Form Page

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Registration Details:

• Registration opens on Eventbrite on May 1, 2025.
• Pre-registration deadline: August 1, 2025.
• Visit https://www.facebook.com/ksu.pawpaw for Eventbrite registration information.

For additional details, please contact:

Dr. Kirk Pomper
Kentucky State University, 125 Atwood Research Facility, Frankfort, KY 40601
Phone: 502-597-5942 | Email: kirk.pomper@kysu.edu

Ms. Sheri Crabtree
Kentucky State University, 127 Atwood Research Facility, Frankfort, KY 40601
Phone: 502-597-6375 | Email: sheri.crabtree@kysu.edu

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