DC Central Kitchen is thrilled to announce Tyson Foods will be returning as the Presenting Sponsor of Capital Food Fight 2026!
A trusted partner committed to fighting food insecurity in local communities across the U.S., Tyson Foods returns at a critical time for the organization’s mission and programs. This builds on the company’s role as Presenting Sponsor in 2025 and lead sponsor of a DCCK Culinary Job Training program class earlier this year. During the program, Tyson Foods team members engaged with students, judged their chili cook-off, and keynoted their graduation ceremony.
“Capital Food Fight may draw people in with delicious food and can’t-miss experiences, but its real purpose is building community, and we simply couldn’t do that without amazing friends and sponsors like Tyson Foods,” said Mike Curtin Jr., Chief Executive Officer of DC Central Kitchen. “It is particularly gratifying to work with an enduring partner that understands the power that food has to bring people together and is committed to year-round involvement with our efforts to combat hunger, reduce food waste, and create economic opportunity here in our nation’s capital.”
“Having seen DC Central Kitchen’s work firsthand, it’s clear how deeply their mission aligns with our own to bring food that tastes great and is nutritious, convenient and affordable to every table in the world,” said Andy York, Head of Global Government Affairs at Tyson Foods. “We are honored to return as the Presenting Sponsor of Capital Food Fight and to deepen a partnership with DC Central Kitchen rooted in that shared commitment.”
Since its inaugural battle in 2004, Capital Food Fight has raised over $13 million in support of DC Central Kitchen’s fight against hunger and poverty. The 2025 edition of the event welcomed more than 1,300 guests who enjoyed delectable bites and libations from 77 bars and restaurants from across the region. Chef Julie Cortes from Kayu took home the title and bragging rights after a hard-fought culinary competition hosted and judged by some of the biggest names in food—a battle that included one on-stage duel featuring Steak-EZE® produced by Tyson Foods as a surprise secret ingredient!
We hope you’ll plan to join DC Central Kitchen, Tyson Foods, and our other generous sponsors at The Anthem on Thursday, November 12th for the 2026 Capital Food Fight!