The Hannah Grimes Center for Entrepreneurship is advancing its mission to support local businesses with the third cohort of its Food Business Lab course. This specialized program, funded by the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation, evolved from the center’s broader Business Lab course in 2021. Since its inception in 2004, the Business Lab—initially known as the Entrepreneur Project and later as Startup Lab—has transformed into an eight-week accelerator that aids both new and established entrepreneurs in refining their business plans.

This year’s Food Business Lab features seasoned instructors Chris Janke and Jim Verzino, both experienced entrepreneurs dedicated to nurturing food business ventures. Over the past several weeks, they have guided participants in enhancing their business acumen, strengthening their business models, and perfecting their pitches. These efforts will culminate in a community pitch event on Thursday, May 30, where the following entrepreneurs will present their ventures:

  • Vitaly Brukhman, Kombucha Business To Come: Vitaly is set to launch a fermented foods business focusing on ultra-local communities. His offerings will include comfort beverages and food products that emphasize local sourcing, natural fermentation, and sustainability.
  • Cynthia Kelley, Shadow & Soul Emporium: Founded in 2018, Shadow & Soul Emporium is a vibrant retail space in Keene offering energy healing services. Cynthia recently expanded the business to include the Tea Lounge, which features over 100 types of teas, alternative coffees, and a variety of food items for dine-in or takeaway.
  • Marcel Maxwell, 802 Soul Kitchen: Marcel’s family-oriented catering business, 802 Soul Kitchen, aims to unite the community with soulful home-cooked meals. Inspired by the culinary skills of his mother and grandmother, Marcel seeks to honor their legacy through his cooking.
  • Maria Oliveras, Flor Farm: Located on a quarter-acre in Massachusetts, Flor Farm produces vegetables and value-added products like jams, jellies, and hot sauces. Maria is dedicated to expanding her farm to provide employment and skills training for other women farmers.

The pitch event will showcase the hard work and innovative ideas of these entrepreneurs, highlighting the continued impact of the Hannah Grimes Center’s Food Business Lab on the local food business landscape.