Soya Summit 2006 Presents Workshop on Evaluating Biodiesel Investments

BAR HARBOR, Maine--July 18, 2006--Over the past three years, billions of dollars have been poured into the development of bio-based energy fuels such as biodiesel from soybeans and ethanol from corn. This investment is causing people to look for a new generation of conversion technologies and feedstocks from plant and animal sources. Political considerations, including passage of the biodiesel tax credit, and high petroleum prices will continue to keep the spotlight on biofuels as a "hot" topic for investors.

With these factors in mind, "Soya Summit 2006: Food and Energy for the 21st Century" will present a workshop designed to put these trends into a broader perspective, equipping potential investors and other interested parties with tools needed to help them assess emerging opportunities.

"Evaluating Biodiesel Investments: It's More Than Numbers" will be presented by Scott McDermott, partner, Ascendant Partners, Inc. This workshop will explore the process of evaluating business opportunities in the biodiesel field and inform attendees about how to accurately gauge the validity and sustainability of a presented business. Topics will examine ways to evaluate plans for biodiesel businesses; highlight strategies for companies to create value or take advantage of new business opportunities in this arena; and outline criteria for defining success.

Soya Summit 2006 is a landmark event that brings together, for the first time, leaders from the food and energy industries to explore key issues and opportunities emerging in the changing global marketplace for food and biofuels. The conference takes place September 18-20 at the Chase Park Plaza Hotel in St. Louis, Missouri and is co-sponsored by The Solae Company.

"One of the goals of Soya Summit 2006 is to help attendees understand the dynamic at play between the biofuel and food industries and its impact on the supply of commodities, price, and of course, farm producers. This conference looks at the ever changing landscape that impacts everyday decisions and will help one to better understand the future role that agriculture will play in both the food and energy markets," said Peter Golbitz, founder and president of Soyatech, which is presenting Soya Summit.

"The biofuels industry is expanding at an extraordinary rate, attracting tremendous interest from the financial community as well as groups looking to build projects to accommodate demand. It's important that everyone involved understand how to assess the critical factors that drive successful investment," noted McDermott.

Online registration for the Soya Summit is available at http://www.soyasummit.com or by phone at 800.424.SOYA (7692). Early registration discounts apply through July 31 and additional group and special non-profit organization rates are available.

Ascendant Partners (www.ascendantpartners.com) is dedicated to helping middle market food, agribusiness and renewable energy companies create sustainable business success.

Soyatech (www.soyatech.com) assists companies in the food and agribusiness sector assess and develop market opportunities through reports, conferences, publications and consulting.