Empowering Small Businesses Through Training
Entrepreneur Empowerment Program
Empowering women and minority-owned small businesses by providing a supportive environment for entrepreneurs to collaborate and tackle challenges alongside like-minded business owners.
DON’T WAIT. START BUILDING YOUR BUSINESS NOW!
Innovative Training
This program is designed to equip small businesses with the tools they need to scale and grow successfully.
Financial Support
Through our partnership with Bridging Virginia, after the program, we connect participants to the financial resources required for expansion and scaling. Access the funding you need to turn your culinary vision into reality.
Empowering Entrepreneurs Program
Spark RVA: Igniting Entrepreneurs
“Spark RVA: Igniting Entrepreneurs” celebrates the latest graduates of Culinary Concepts AB’s Entrepreneur Empowerment Program. It showcases the resilience, innovation, and community that fuel Richmond’s entrepreneurial spirit. This event highlights the achievements of passionate individuals who’ve transformed their ideas into thriving businesses. Join us to witness their inspiring journey and celebrate their success!
Event Highlights
- Witness history in the making: This is the first-ever event of its kind at The Kitchen at Reynolds Community College Kitchen, marking a new era of collaboration between education and the vibrant Richmond business scene.
- Gain valuable insights: Learn from influential guest speakers, including Secretary of Labor Bryan Slater, Toby Desch representing Church Hill North Holdings, and representatives from Capital One, Bridging VA, Culinary Concepts AB, and much more!
- Savor the flavors of success: Enjoy delicious food that showcases the rich diversity and culinary talents within our community from our small business graduates.
- Be inspired by powerful stories: Hear from the graduates themselves about their entrepreneurial journeys, business goals, and program impact.
- Connect and collaborate: Forge meaningful connections with entrepreneurs, community leaders, and industry experts. This is your chance to be part of a network shaping Richmond’s future and building bridges between the public and private sectors.
Spark RVA is more than just an event; it’s a catalyst for change!
Our Mission
At Culinary Concepts AB, our mission is to empower individuals and build vibrant kitchen communities. We achieve this by forming strategic partnerships with public and private entities, bridging the gap between aspiring chefs, small businesses and the hospitality industry. Through our comprehensive training programs, we promote collaborative thinking, expansive networking, and sustainable growth opportunities for all participants.
Collaborative Efforts
Supporting Small Businesses
Culinary Concepts AB, in collaboration with Bridging Virginia, Hatch Richmond, and Capital One, is dedicated to supporting small businesses in the culinary industry. Bridging Virginia provides crucial financial assistance to historically marginalized businesses, helping them overcome funding barriers. Hatch Richmond offers shared commercial kitchen spaces, private food production suites, and mentorship to food and beverage entrepreneurs. Capital One, as a key funder, supports the pilot launch of our Culinary Training Program, aligning with their commitment to fostering the growth and success of small businesses. Together, we create a supportive environment where entrepreneurs can address challenges, set clear goals, and implement sustainable practices for long-term success.
Key Features
Collaborative Kitchen Spaces
Thought our partnership with Hatch Kitchen students get access to a shared kitchen spaces fostering collaboration and innovation among culinary entrepreneurs.
Financial Resources
Access to funding opportunities as big as 100k through our partnership with Bridging Virginia, ensures you have the capital needed to grow
Expert Mentorship
Benefit from the guidance of experienced mentors who provide valuable insights and support along with a network that will help you grow your business.
Networking Opportunities
Our programs conclude with “Spark RVA”, an exclusive graduation event offering unparalleled networking opportunities. Connect with key players in both the public and private sectors, expanding your reach and opening doors to exciting new possibilities.
What Our Participants Say
★★★★★
“This course really enabled me to Zoom out and Zoom back in so that I could focus on doing things in the right order and at the right time.”
Yoseph Demise, Nile Kitchen
★★★★★
“I would recommend this to literally anyone in the culinary and small business space. I haven’t found anything better.”
Abbie Toner, Jonesin’ for a Treat
★★★★★
“There is a lot that goes into running a restaurant. I mean an extreme amount that I wouldn’t have even known if I didn’t take this class.”
Lance Lemon, Penny’s Wine Shop
Media
★★★★★
Empowering Culinary Entrepreneurs in Richmond
★★★★★
Minority-owned businesses unite to revolutionize the small business landscape in Richmond, Virginia
★★★★★
Richmond’s culinary creatives
Join Us
Be a part of our mission to uplift small businesses in the culinary industry. Whether you’re looking to apply for our program, donate to support our cause, or partner with us, your involvement can make a significant impact. Together, we can motivate, collaborate, and inspire the next generation of culinary entrepreneurs.