TORONTO — A non-profit seeks to help Black food entrepreneurs in Canada gain free access to resources and support. Founded by industry veteran Janice Bartley, Foodpreneur Lab provides mentorship, hands-on experience in a commercial production space and more, with individualized programs for businesses at various stages.
The project is funded by the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario.
Foodpreneur Lab is accepting applications for its next cohort through Feb. 28 at foodpreneurlab.com. Applicants from Ottawa, Hamilton, Halton, Niagara, Simcoe, Wellington, Frontenac, Dufferin, Prescott and Russell, Stormont, Renfrew, Lanark, Leeds and Grenville, Dundas and Glengarry will be given priority. Applicants from the Greater Toronto Area also will be accepted.
“It is through food that communities connect and foster a sense of belonging,” Ms. Bartley said. “We believe that shared experiences provided by our support paths will help Black food entrepreneurs thrive and conduct business that honors their unique lens.”
Black founders historically have faced systemic barriers to launching and scaling successful food businesses, Ms. Bartley said. Fifty participants have enrolled with Foodpreneur Lab to date.
The network, the experience and the results have all been amazing,” said Robert Robinson, founder of Robinson Sauces, a brand of gourmet fruit-based condiments. “It’s helped me understand and map out success for my business and connecting me with the right people.”
