EDA discusses catalytic projects to support agribusiness, shared kitchens and cold chain

As part of a broader discussion of catalytic projects, EDA staff described several agribusiness and food-processing concepts intended to support local producers and small food businesses.

Staff highlighted examples such as the Beacon Kitchen, a shared commercial kitchen incubator used by multiple local food businesses, and Beller Farms’ cold-link sharing concept that would improve transportation and food-safety logistics. The authority discussed county and regional partners that could support shared infrastructure, and board members suggested convening a focused agribusiness roundtable to identify concrete needs before committing funding.

Staff noted that incubator kitchens and low-cost access to food-processing space can help micro-enterprises scale to retail and farmer’s-market distribution. One board member proposed that staff convene producers, technical assistance partners (for example, small business development centers) and funders to determine a minimal scope and estimated cost for a catalytic pilot.