Kitchens for Good
Microenterprise Program
Larry’s Aim High Vanilla, KFG ME product
Kitchens for Good ME Program Participants:
- Larry, Aim High Vanilla
- Lizeth, chocolatier
- Isabel, Isa’s Tamales
Building your Food Business with Kitchens for Good
Kitchens for Good’s Microenterprise (ME) program helps create a more inclusive and robust food system in San Diego by supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds as they build and grow small businesses. Kitchens for Good’s ME program connects low-to-moderate-income San Diego residents to the critical support they need to succeed.
Who Do We Serve?
The ME program is meant to act as a launching pad for San Diego residents who are low-to-moderate income, including individuals who have historically been underrecognized in the entrepreneurial community. When we help propel forward small businesses created by people of color, women, single parents, refugee, or immigrant communities, or others with limited access to resources, we help diversify and strengthen the food community that benefits us all.
What Will You Create?
Kitchens for Good’s ME program accepts early-stage food entrepreneurs in San Diego, focusing on those who have experienced barriers to accessing the resources and support needed to start their small businesses. We work with the following types of ventures:
- Catering Businesses: Entrepreneurs who specialize in preparing meals for gatherings and social functions.
- Food Product Developers: Makers who create packaged product lines such as jams, hot sauce, candies, frozen empanadas, and more.
- Food Vendors: Small business owners who sell ready-to-eat foods at farmers markets, street fairs, pop-ups, or food trucks..
“Every great dream begins with a dreamer.” — Harriet Tubman
Participants in the ME program benefit form Kitchens for Good’s decade of experience in culinary innovation and education. The ME program provides a full support system.
Educational Workshops
Elevate your business acumen through our interactive workshops focusing on what you need to know to build a strong foundation for your business. We’ll cover crucial topics such as marketing, branding, business planning, and accounting through hands-on sessions with our team.
Commercial Kitchen Space
The FBA program includes access to Kitchens for Good’s two fully equipped commercial kitchens. Participants will create, develop, and practice manufacturing their products in a day-use kitchen in Old Town or an extended-use kitchen near Linda Vista. The space includes the necessary equipment and space for food prep, baking, catering development, and storage participants need to bring their culinary visions to life without the burden of high rental costs.
Personalized Advising & Mentorship
Your early-stage food business will receive individualized guidance on key elements of your entrepreneurial journey, covering areas such as licensing, permitting, insurance, product development, and sales. Being part of the FBA program connects you with a dynamic community of fellow entrepreneurs, offering access to valuable resources, funding opportunities, and essential networking connections.
Promotion and Sales
Participants will have their products showcased online and in-store via Kitchens for Good’s retail division, social media, and special events. You’ll get hands-on experience learning merchandising, order fulfillment, e-commerce tactics, and more while selling your product directly to customers.
ARE YOU READY?
Entrepreneurs who get the most out of the program demonstrate:
- Willingness to Learn: Through Kitchens for Good, you’ll be introduced to new ideas and other perspectives. Entrepreneurs who benefit the most from this program have a willingness to have their ideas and processes challenged and refined.
- Commitment and Availability: Participating in the ME program will require your time, attention, and focus. To get the most from the experience, you’ll need to commit time each week to the program.
- Passion for Community Building: Kitchens for Good is committed to creating an anti-racist, inclusive, and vibrant entrepreneurial community. Our community of entrepreneurs come from all backgrounds but share a commitment to fostering a safe learning environment for their fellow entrepreneurs.
LEARN MORE
Schedule a Free Consultation
Book a virtual session with our dedication team to explore how the ME program can help you achieve your goals.
Sign Up for the ME Program Updates
Receive updates about upcoming workshops and resources straight to your inbox.
Our Sponsors
Thank you to our generous sponsors and funders that support Kitchens for Good Food Business Accelerator programming, including:
- Avila Fund
- City of San Diego
- Parker Pike, in memory of Sandra Pike
- San Diego Social Venture Partners