Local Chambers Launch The Kitchen Council

The Greater Omaha Chamber and the Council Bluffs Area Chamber of Commerce have a message for the region’s food entrepreneurs– the prep work is done; The Kitchen Council is ready to serve.

A unique food startup incubator, The Kitchen Council was founded to significantly lower the barriers to entry for new food companies while spurring economic development, job creation and entrepreneurial growth. Members will gain access to a fully-licensed commercial kitchen, providing them the tools, resources and space for production without the burden and costs of operating their own facilities.

The Kitchen Council facility is located at 50 Arena Way, Suite 11 (formerly Famous Dave’s) in Council Bluffs, Iowa. More than 2,500 square feet of kitchen space can accommodate up to 30 foodpreneurs and will include a full complement of equipment – from convection ovens and large scale mixers to prep tables and walk-in freezer space.

Beyond providing equipment, The Kitchen Council will manage day-to-day tasks, including inspections, maintenance and janitorial services, allowing members to focus on their products, customers and employees.

Members will also have access to business development assistance, including regular strategic review sessions with staff and volunteer mentors as well as marketing, sales, accounting, health and safety, and other support. Office space and free Wi-Fi are available to conduct meetings and business outside of the kitchen. Members pay a flat-rate, monthly membership fee based on intensity of facility use.

The Kitchen Council is affiliated with Union Kitchen, the leading food incubator in the country, based in Washington, D.C. Union Kitchen has provided technical expertise in the planning and development of the project. To fund the project, the two Chambers were successfully awarded grant funding from the Iowa Economic Development Authority’s Entrepreneurial Investment Awards program, Iowa West Foundation and the Omaha Development Foundation.


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