The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach’s Food Innovation and Business Hub, a resource that helps Iowa entrepreneurs develop successful food businesses, will host a monthly “Lunch and Learn” webinar series to support current and aspiring Iowa food entrepreneurs. The webinars are offered at no cost and open to all.

The series is specifically designed for food business owners, farmers exploring value-added products and individuals in the early stages of developing a food-based enterprise.

Christa Hartsook, program manager for Farm, Food and Enterprise Development, said the series will help participants move closer to regulatory compliance and profitability. Registration is through hartc@iastate.edu.

“Anyone who is interested in developing a value-added business and even those who are at an idea stage will still find value in attending,” she said. “Each webinar will include specific take-away points that will provide those with a food business some ideas to immediately implement.”

Each session will begin at noon on its respective date and feature a presentation from ISU food business and food safety experts, followed by an open question-and-answer session. The schedule is as follows:

March 3: What is the Food Innovation and Business Hub?

April 7: Differences in a Cottage Food License vs. Home Food Processing Establishment License

May 5: Identifying Your Customers

June 9: Food Safety 101 — Understanding Water Activity, pH, Microorganisms

July 7: Food Innovation and Business Hub Analytical Services