BRENTWOOD, CA – In an effort to help local food entrepreneurs grow their business, the City of Brentwood has now launched a six-month pilot program to offer the kitchen for rent at $20 per hour to provide an opportunity to utilize the kitchen to those who previously may have not been able to do so.
“Local food businesses have become a key part of our economy,” said Brentwood’s Economic Development Manager, Alex Greenwood. “We are very excited to offer this kitchen at a special low rate to help support our local food entrepreneurs.”
Brentwood has long been a destination for food businesses, due to its world famous organic farms, gourmet lifestyle, and extremely low-cost, ample natural resources. City staff estimates there are approximately 30 food companies in the East Contra Costa region.
However, many of these companies are home based or new start-up ventures, and they do not have access to commercial-grade kitchen equipment at an affordable price. Only a handful of commercial kitchens serve the East Bay, and in most cases the rental costs are $30 per hour or greater.
In 2012, the City opened a new Community Center and as part of the construction project included a 700 sq. ft. commercial kitchen. The kitchen has been used primarily to support the numerous events held in the Center. But the City feels that the kitchen could also serve as an incubator for start-up food businesses. In an effort to offset the costs associated with starting a food preparation business using a commercial kitchen, the City is introducing this pilot program.
During the six month pilot program, the City is offering the use of the kitchen at approximately 50% of the normal rate and has reduced the deposit to $200. Participating businesses will still be required to obtain all standard State and/or County permits for food businesses.
To inquire about the pilot program or to receive additional information about the commercial kitchen please contact Helena Pfeifer at (925) 516-5444 or [email protected].
