Logansport Unveils Innovative Incubator Kitchen for Food Entrepreneurs

The Logansport City Council convened on July 22, 2025, to discuss the development of a new community kitchen and pavilion, which aims to foster local entrepreneurship and enhance community engagement. The meeting highlighted the multifaceted purpose of the facility, which is more than just an open space for a farmer's market.

The proposed structure will feature an incubator kitchen designed to support food entrepreneurs in the region. This kitchen will provide essential resources for individuals looking to start their own food businesses, addressing the significant barriers to entry in the food industry. The kitchen will be equipped with multiple workstations and will operate 24/7, allowing users to rent space as needed. The executive director, Ryan Bullhouse, who has extensive experience in the food industry, will guide new entrepreneurs through the process of launching their businesses.

Council members discussed the kitchen's potential to create job opportunities, citing Bullhouse's previous success in Grand Rapids, where his kitchen supported over 500 jobs in six years. The facility will also include a learning kitchen for educational purposes, accommodating classes and events related to food preparation and nutrition.

The pavilion, which will host the farmer's market on select days, is expected to be utilized for various community events throughout the year, including festivals and private gatherings. The kitchen and pavilion are strategically located near the Immigration Monument, maximizing their visibility and accessibility.

Funding for the project includes a significant grant from the Lilly Endowment, which recognized the initiative's potential to unite the community around food and promote healthy eating. The total investment in kitchen equipment alone exceeds $800,000, reflecting the project's commitment to providing high-quality resources for local entrepreneurs.

As the meeting concluded, council members expressed optimism about the facility's impact on the community, with plans to have ten entrepreneurs ready to start by the time the kitchen opens. The project is poised to be a substantial addition to downtown Logansport, enhancing both economic development and community cohesion.