Empower your shared with KitchenEDU
Your go-to resource for mastering shared kitchen operations, fostering success, and leading thriving food businesses.
At The Food Corridor, we know running a shared kitchen is as challenging as it is rewarding.
That’s why we created KitchenEDU—a hub of knowledge tailored to help you navigate the complexities of shared kitchen operations. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to streamline your processes, KitchenEDU offers the tools, insights, and support you need to succeed.
Kitchen EDU
Empower Your Shared Kitchen with KitchenEDU
At The Food Corridor, we know running a shared kitchen is as challenging as it is rewarding. That’s why we created KitchenEDU—a hub of knowledge tailored to help you navigate the complexities of shared kitchen operations. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to streamline your processes, KitchenEDU offers the tools, insights, and support you need to succeed.
Free resources
Products for sale
Events
- Event Calendar
- Shared Kitchen Summit
- Meetups
- 101s
Kitchen Connect
- Kitchen Connect
- Sign up form is here
- Editions
Funding sources for food-related businesses.
USDA resources to support local and regional food systems.
The Kitchen Door
The NICK
RFBC
RFBC – As a technical assistant partner and lead with the Northwest and Rocky Mountain Regional Food Business Center, we are helping to create a more inclusive and accessible local food system. Connect with us to learn more about funding and educational opportunities for your kitchen and food businesses.
Kajabi
We’re with you every stage of your shared kitchen journey.
Shared Kitchen Summit
Shared kitchens play a vital role in supporting local food entrepreneurs and driving economic growth. These kitchens serve as the heart of the local food system, lowering the barrier to entry for small food businesses and foster innovation. By hosting a Shared Kitchen 101 Workshop, you can inject essential resources and industry expertise directly into your community.
With nearly a decade of experience engaging with and learning from hundreds of shared kitchen operators, we’ve compiled an unparalleled wealth of industry knowledge and insights. We understand that every shared kitchen journey is unique, which is why our workshop agendas are tailored to meet the specific needs of those in attendance. Our workshops are designed to equip participants with the tools and strategies needed to successfully navigate the shared kitchen journey, empowering them to strengthen your local food ecosystem. Let’s work together to inspire growth and opportunity in your community!
Why you should host
Shared kitchens play a vital role in supporting local food entrepreneurs and driving economic growth. These kitchens serve as the heart of the local food system, lowering the barrier to entry for small food businesses and foster innovation. By hosting a Shared Kitchen 101 Workshop, you can inject essential resources and industry expertise directly into your community.
With nearly a decade of experience engaging with and learning from hundreds of shared kitchen operators, we’ve compiled an unparalleled wealth of industry knowledge and insights. We understand that every shared kitchen journey is unique, which is why our workshop agendas are tailored to meet the specific needs of those in attendance. Our workshops are designed to equip participants with the tools and strategies needed to successfully navigate the shared kitchen journey, empowering them to strengthen your local food ecosystem. Let’s work together to inspire growth and opportunity in your community!
Who Should Attend:
- Entrepreneurs planning to start a shared kitchen.
- Community organizations and leaders considering shared kitchen projects.
- Anyone passionate about fostering culinary innovation in their community.
Key Features:
- Guided Exploration: Participants will receive expert guidance from The Food Corridor team, who will lead them through the fundamental concepts and various types of shared-use kitchens. Attendees will gain a deep understanding of the shared kitchen industry, its potential benefits, and the diverse models available.
- Strategic Planning: The workshop will focus on helping attendees initiate key aspects of their shared kitchen projects. Topics covered include identifying member types, forming partnerships, determining facility requirements, exploring funding strategies, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.
- Real-World Insights: Participants will have the opportunity to learn from successful shared kitchen operators, gaining valuable insights into what makes these ventures thrive. These real-world experiences will help attendees apply best practices to their own projects.
- Exclusive Resources: Workshop attendees will receive valuable resources, including a printed copy of the Shared Kitchen Toolkit, access to discounts on essential tools and manuals, and workbook handouts. These resources will empower participants to take actionable steps in their shared kitchen endeavors.
- Networking Opportunities: The workshop provides a platform for attendees to connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for community-driven culinary innovation. Networking opportunities will foster collaboration and the exchange of ideas.
- Customized Agenda: The Food Corridor team will collaborate with workshop participants and their communities to create a custom agenda that addresses their specific questions and needs. This personalized approach ensures that attendees receive tailored guidance and information.
- Golden Nuggets from Past Attendees: The workshop has gathered valuable insights from previous participants, referred to as “golden nuggets.” These insights encompass essential learnings and tips shared by past attendees to assist newcomers on their shared kitchen journey.
- Optional Add-Ons
- Shared Kitchen Toolkit
- Shared Kitchen Operations Manual, 15% discount
- Prep and Prosper Shared Kitchen Workbook, $245 each, 30% discount
- Shared Kitchen Operator Report
Agenda Topics
- Understanding Shared Kitchens: Definitions and Types
- Planning Your Shared Kitchen: From Concept to Reality
- Forming Partnerships for Success
- Facilities, Equipment, and Compliance
- Funding Your Shared Kitchen Vision
- Building a Sustainable Community of Food Entrepreneurs
- Physical Space/Kitchen Buildout
- Charging for Space: Building your Pricing Strategy and best practices
- Surveying your community of potential renters and food entrepreneurs
- Assessing Demand & Marketing
- Policies & Kitchen Culture
How you can host
Interested in bringing our Shared Kitchen 101 Workshop to your community?
- Complete this interest form to get the process started.
- Our KitchenEDU team will follow up to schedule a call to discuss the details of your request.
- You send a list of workshop invitees and partners at least three months from your workshop date.
- We will send our content survey to your list and begin building your custom agenda.
- We will work with you to confirm all necessary logistics.
Needs for an in-person workshop
- At least 30 attendees.
- A room capable of comfortably holding all registered attendees classroom style.
- A projector screen that connects to a laptop.
- Breakfast, coffee, and lunch catering options from a local food producer, ideally operating out of a shared kitchen.
Join us to gain actionable insights, connect with industry experts, and build the confidence to lead your shared kitchen to success.
Shared Kitchen 101 Workshops
Our Shared Kitchen 101 Workshops are the ultimate starting point for anyone exploring shared kitchens, or launching soon. These workshops are designed to provide the foundational knowledge, practical tools, and expert insights needed to navigate the ins and outs of shared kitchen operations successfully. We offer in-person or virtual workshop options to fit the needs of your community.
Shared Kitchen 101 Workshops
Our Shared Kitchen 101 Workshops are the ultimate starting point for anyone exploring shared kitchens, or launching soon. These workshops are designed to provide the foundational knowledge, practical tools, and expert insights needed to navigate the ins and outs of shared kitchen operations successfully. We offer in-person or virtual workshop options to fit the needs of your community.
Why you should host
Shared kitchens play a vital role in supporting local food entrepreneurs and driving economic growth. These kitchens serve as the heart of the local food system, lowering the barrier to entry for small food businesses and foster innovation. By hosting a Shared Kitchen 101 Workshop, you can inject essential resources and industry expertise directly into your community.
With nearly a decade of experience engaging with and learning from hundreds of shared kitchen operators, we’ve compiled an unparalleled wealth of industry knowledge and insights. We understand that every shared kitchen journey is unique, which is why our workshop agendas are tailored to meet the specific needs of those in attendance. Our workshops are designed to equip participants with the tools and strategies needed to successfully navigate the shared kitchen journey, empowering them to strengthen your local food ecosystem. Let’s work together to inspire growth and opportunity in your community!
Who Should Attend
- Entrepreneurs planning to start a shared kitchen.
- Community organizations and leaders considering shared kitchen projects.
- Anyone passionate about fostering culinary innovation in their community.
Key Features
- Guided Exploration: Participants will receive expert guidance from The Food Corridor team, who will lead them through the fundamental concepts and various types of shared-use kitchens. Attendees will gain a deep understanding of the shared kitchen industry, its potential benefits, and the diverse models available.
- Strategic Planning: The workshop will focus on helping attendees initiate key aspects of their shared kitchen projects. Topics covered include identifying member types, forming partnerships, determining facility requirements, exploring funding strategies, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.
- Real-World Insights: Participants will have the opportunity to learn from successful shared kitchen operators, gaining valuable insights into what makes these ventures thrive. These real-world experiences will help attendees apply best practices to their own projects.
- Exclusive Resources: Workshop attendees will receive valuable resources, including a printed copy of the Shared Kitchen Toolkit, access to discounts on essential tools and manuals, and workbook handouts. These resources will empower participants to take actionable steps in their shared kitchen endeavors.
- Networking Opportunities: The workshop provides a platform for attendees to connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for community-driven culinary innovation. Networking opportunities will foster collaboration and the exchange of ideas.
- Customized Agenda: The Food Corridor team will collaborate with workshop participants and their communities to create a custom agenda that addresses their specific questions and needs. This personalized approach ensures that attendees receive tailored guidance and information.
- Golden Nuggets from Past Attendees: The workshop has gathered valuable insights from previous participants, referred to as “golden nuggets.” These insights encompass essential learnings and tips shared by past attendees to assist newcomers on their shared kitchen journey.
- Optional Add-Ons
- Shared Kitchen Toolkit
- Shared Kitchen Operations Manual, 15% discount
- Prep and Prosper Shared Kitchen Workbook, $245 each, 30% discount
- Shared Kitchen Operator Report
Agenda Topics
- Understanding Shared Kitchens: Definitions and Types
- Planning Your Shared Kitchen: From Concept to Reality
- Forming Partnerships for Success
- Facilities, Equipment, and Compliance
- Funding Your Shared Kitchen Vision
- Building a Sustainable Community of Food Entrepreneurs
- Physical Space/Kitchen Buildout
- Charging for Space: Building your Pricing Strategy and best practices
- Surveying your community of potential renters and food entrepreneurs
- Assessing Demand & Marketing
- Policies & Kitchen Culture
How you can host
Interested in bringing our Shared Kitchen 101 Workshop to your community?
- Complete this interest form to get the process started.
- Our KitchenEDU team will follow up to schedule a call to discuss the details of your request.
- You send a list of workshop invitees and partners at least three months from your workshop date.
- We will send our content survey to your list and begin building your custom agenda.
- We will work with you to confirm all necessary logistics.
Needs for an in-person workshop
- At least 30 attendees.
- A room capable of comfortably holding all registered attendees classroom style.
- A projector screen that connects to a laptop.
- Breakfast, coffee, and lunch catering options from a local food producer, ideally operating out of a shared kitchen.
Join us to gain actionable insights, connect with industry experts, and build the confidence to lead your shared kitchen to success.
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Sign up for the TFC newsletter to stay up-to-date on the latest KitchenEDU workshops, cohorts, and meet-ups.
Our Other Publications
This report provides exclusive insights into the latest market trends for shared-use kitchens, summarizing the available proprietary information from The Food Corridor and The Kitchen Door. The report includes the most comprehensive market insights available, pulling data from March 2019 to March 2020.
The Food Corridor and a Steering Committee of 10 NICK members explored the national policy landscape for shared-use kitchens. They identified the best practices and policies to support the industry in navigating local health departments, conflicting state and county policy, and inadequate licensing options.
This report provides a snapshot of today’s shared food facility industry, presents a view into the industry’s future trajectory, and highlights best practices and recommendations for improving outcomes for entrepreneurs and operators. In addition to sharing data and recommendations, this report seeks to put shared kitchens into greater context as operations with the potential to play an outsized role in expanding the inclusive economy – bringing entrepreneurs that face significant barriers to entry into the fold of supportive business ecosystems.
Business Development
A community for food artisans and entrepreneurs with a mission of providing up-to-date industry news as well as the regulatory, business, and strategic information needed to successfully compete in today’s marketplace.
Create, connect, support, and share the extraordinary experience of specialty food with the world. Join for access to exclusive membership benefits.
Enables and empowers entrepreneurial leaders to design, deliver and lead transformative innovations that address the world’s most pressing food challenges—and its greatest business opportunities.
Helps you develop and commercialize high-value products and businesses in the food, agricultural and natural resource sectors.
A Project of the Northside Planning Council, this is a template for sections to include in a shared-use kitchen business plan.
Education
Their five undergraduate schools award Bachelor’s degrees in food business management, culinary science, and applied food studies; associate degrees in either culinary arts or baking and pastry arts; and an accelerated culinary arts certificate.
Enables and empowers entrepreneurial leaders to design, deliver and lead transformative innovations that address the world’s most pressing food challenges—and its greatest business opportunities.
For food retailers, wholesalers and suppliers of all types and sizes, FMI leads the way in providing comprehensive programs, resources, guidance, advocacy and services for the food and grocery retail industry.
Information for anyone interested in undertaking an online cooking course to improve their basic cooking abilities, through gaining full-on professional kitchen experience.
Funding, Accelerators, & Incubators
AngelCalc models the conversion of safes and/or convertible notes during an equity financing. It uses techniques similar to those used by Microsoft Excel to make its calculations.
Accelerator that builds a networking and mentoring platform to enable the best entrepreneurs to revolutionize the way we produce and distribute food globally. Accepts both for- and non-profit business models.
Funding sources for food-related businesses.
USDA resources to support local and regional food systems.
General Resources
Very comprehensive toolkit for rural food business development, including: commercial and shared-use kitchens, value-add processing, distribution, business incubation, food safety, networks and other tools.
The site of record and community for the food tech and innovation sector. They give innovators the tech and business insights, connections, job postings, and skills you need to transform the food industry.
Kitchen Operations & Best Practices
Provides a comprehensive set of tools, technical support, and verification system to assist institutions in meeting their Program goals and commitments.
Started by Northern Kentucky Incubator Kitchen’s Rachel Grubbs de Rochers, this podcast series covers “intimate conversations for the foodpreneur community”.
Guidance for Communities and Facility Operators. This is a free guide for existing kitchens in community-serving facilities, such as religious buildings and community centers, to provide kitchen access to food entrepreneurs. It provides practical steps for establishing a rental program, profiles Kitchen Connect programs, and highlights ways stakeholders can support kitchen access. It was developed by Fruition Planning & Management and Purdue Extension Services and made possible by a grant from the USDA’s Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program, North Central Region.
Marketing & Distribution
Post your shared kitchen or find licensed, commercial kitchens for rent near you!
Put CPG products in front of thousands of retail buyers – instantly.
Create FDA-compliant nutrition fact labels, recipe costing, and inventory management.
For food retailers, wholesalers and suppliers of all types and sizes, FMI leads the way in providing comprehensive programs, resources, guidance, advocacy and services for the food and grocery retail industry.
The Market Research for Market Readiness (MKTRD) Protocol is based on consumer testing and designed to help entrepreneurial food makers and value-added farmers evaluate the products they are developing for market. This toolkit includes a manual, an Excel workbook, and several training videos
Integrity Labeling prepares Nutrition Facts, Ingredient Statements, Nutrient Content Claims and Allergen Statements that are FDA Compliant and design-ready to insert into your label design, in just 3-5 business days.
Safety & Sanitation
Enables users to search NACCHO’s Local Health Department (LHD) Directory by zip code.
A process authority evaluates the thermal process for food with expert knowledge of thermal process, hermetically sealed containers, and food microbiology. Registry available by state.
A food and beverage safety training and certificate program administered by the National Restaurant Association. The program is accredited by ANSI and the Conference for Food Protection. Sanitation certification is required as a basic credential for anyone producing food for sale.
All wholesale manufacturers, re-packers and warehouses must comply with the FDA’s Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Title 21, section 110.
Open source food safety plans, free and unrestricted public viewing, commenting, downloading, sharing, revision, and use.
Shared-Use Kitchens
A guide to starting shared‐use kitchens as an affordable venue for new and existing value‐added food production entrepreneurs, farmers and caterers. Published September 2014 by the Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture, in collaboration with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.
Econsult Solutions, Inc. (ESI), along with American Communities Trust and Urbane Development conducted a survey assessing the landscape of U.S. kitchen incubators/accelerators. Published March 2016.
March 2016
Have a resource to share? Need a resource that isn’t here? Let us know: [email protected]!
EDU Facilitators
Are you a shared kitchen operator passionate about sharing your experience, or have knowledge in an area relevant to shared kitchens? If so, we want to hear from you! KitchenEDU is seeking contract facilitators to lead engaging and impactful workshops on our EDU platform. This flexible opportunity allows you to leverage your knowledge, inspire others, and make an impact on the growing shared kitchen community. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and roles are filled as needed. Join us to shape the future of shared kitchens. Apply today to join our team of industry leaders!
