Local Food Show, Culinary Incubator Partner to Benefit Entrepreneurs

The Business Journal, July 19, 2023, By Ben Hensley

MADE Central California and the Clovis Culinary Center have partnered to offer a promotion this fall for food entrepreneurs hoping to make a splash in the local culinary industry.

MADE Central California, a revamped food industry trade show that made its debut after a hiatus late last summer, is partnering with the local culinary incubator to provide entrepreneurs who join the Clovis Culinary Center with a free booth at this year’s MADE Central California Expo Nov. 2-3.

Entrepreneurs must register before Oct. 1 and sign an agreement committing to a minimum of 30 hours per month for at least four months at the Clovis Culinary Center to be eligible.

The promotion seeks to provide emerging food entrepreneurs with all of the essentials required to start a culinary business. Members at the Clovis Culinary Center are granted access to the center’s resources including kitchen supplies and workspace.

“At Clovis Culinary Center, we are dedicated to nurturing the growth and success of emerging food businesses,” said Shawn Miller, CFO of Clovis Culinary Center and City of Clovis Business Development Manager. “Our aim is to provide a launching pad for individuals at the very beginning stages of their entrepreneurial journey.”

In addition to work space and a selection of provided equipment, members will also have access to training in successfully starting a food-based business, marketing, social media tips with Fresno Street Eats and more.

“By joining the center and participating in this promotion, they not only gain access to our kitchen space and resources but also unlock a chance to shine at a prominent event like MADE Central California,” Miller added.

Spaces at the Clovis Culinary Center are limited.

For more information about the culinary center, and to sign up, contact Kris Marshall at (559) 765-1016, or by email at krismarshall@clovisculinarycenter.com.

For more information about MADE Central California, contact Rebecca Sustaita at (559) 495-4800 or by email at rsustaita@fresnochamber.com.