The Starting Block Incubator supports entrepreneurs in food and natural resource businesses. Our shared vision is to be the premier regional resource, for growing any new idea, in the food product or natural resource areas, into a profitable, local and wealth-creating business. We are a nonprofit, regional economic development organization committed to small business development initiatives – for businesses just starting out, or companies outgrowing their current facilities. OUR MISSION
To incubate and support the entrepreneurial spirit, in the food systems and natural resources sector, by providing licensed commercial kitchen facilities, entrepreneurial education and peer-to-peer networking to new and expanding businesses in the multi-county, West Central Michigan region. The Starting Block offers:
•A Commercial Kitchen – The shared-use commercial kitchen helps meet food processing needs at low hourly rental rates. Kitchen usage fees range from range from $10 per hour for tabletop kitchen use and food packaging, to $12 per hour for general kitchen use, and $15 per hour for baking, catering, and steam kettle and filler processing. Certified staff in food handling and equipment operation is available for assistance and training.
•Office Rental – Office rental includes wireless internet access, local phone, conference room, and office support. A 90 square foot office rents for $110 per month and a 225 square foot office for $275 per month.
•Education – Small business management, networking, and individual business guidance are offered, along with Entrepreneurship, Small Business Management, and Marketing classes.
•Equipment – Tenants receive training and have access to commercial ovens, freezers, ranges, mixers, kettles, industrial food processors, and more.
•Licenses – The shared-use kitchen is licensed and approved by the Michigan Department of Agriculture.
•Product Development – Technical advice is offered on food production, pH levels, batch-up recipes, and packaging and labeling.
•Warehouse & Storage – Refrigerator, freezer, and dry pallet storage is available for rent at the rate of $10 per month for non-secured dry storage, and $15 per month for secured dry storage. Refrigerator and freezer storage rents for $1.50 per cubic foot per month and $75.00 per pallet per month.
