Small food businesses are the backbone of Fresno County's economy, driving innovation and providing essential services to our community. Fresno County is home to over 1,500 food-related businesses, including mobile food vendors, restaurants, food processors, and specialty food producers. These enterprises are not just feeding the community— they are fueling the local economy, contributing more than $1 billion annually.
Mobile food vendors and small restaurants, in particular, have seen significant growth, reflecting the region's vibrant and diverse food culture. As these businesses navigate the challenges of scaling and maintaining food safety standards, universities, programs, and advocates play a pivotal role in their success.
This August, we were thrilled to launch the Culinary Catalyst food accelerator program, a groundbreaking cross-campus initiative made possible by the generous support of the USDA Southwest Regional Food Business Center grant. Running from August 5th to August 9th, this program marked a significant milestone for our nonprofit business incubator, setting a new standard for collaboration and impact.
Program Highlights:
Erin Dormedy, the esteemed department chair and director of the Food Science Program, led an intensive Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) certification workshop. We're proud to announce that all 13 participants earned their HACCP certification. This certification is a crucial safety benchmark for businesses aiming to grow and scale, ensuring they meet the highest food safety standards.
In addition to the HACCP training, these entrepreneurs engaged in three days of comprehensive business support workshops. These sessions covered various topics, from business plan creation to navigating local government regulations, equipping participants with the knowledge and tools they need to thrive in the competitive food industry.
The program is an exciting showcase of diverse businesses, from baked goods to fiery hot sauces. It featured established entrepreneurs and those aspiring to launch their ventures. It was an opportunity for everyone to connect, share their stories, and gain valuable knowledge from one another. The atmosphere left everyone feeling inspired and optimistic about the future.
Collaborative Support:
This program would not have been possible without the invaluable support of our key partners. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Access Plus Capital, Central Valley SBDC, CA GOBIZ Office, City of Fresno Economic Development, JD Food, Veritiv Corporation, US SBA, Fresno Street Eats, and many others who contributed their time and expertise to empower our participants.
One participant shared, "I am grateful for the opportunity provided by the Fresno State WET Center. Our class obtained our HACCP certification and interacted with several individuals who have now assisted in my personal and professional growth. This experience will aid in the ongoing development of my business, and I can't wait to see the new programs the WET Center has to offer small businesses like mine."
Looking Ahead:
We're already looking forward to our next cohort, scheduled for early 2025. Applications will open soon, but if you're eager to learn more, don't hesitate to contact us at info@wetcenter.org. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to foster innovation and growth within our local food industry!
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