ABOUT US
The Incubator Kitchen Collective is a non-profit organization that provides a hand up and a push forward for food entrepreneurs in the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky region. We offer a comprehensive framework of support that helps food start-ups overcome the unique barriers in the food industry.
The Incubator Kitchen Collective was started in September 2013 by Rachel DesRochers, owner of Grateful Grahams. She wanted to create a shared kitchen space to support foodpreneurs with an affordable, comprehensive approach.
Est. 2013
We work with branding experts, local printing/label companies, wholesale pricing venues, and regional distribution outlets to bring a host of valuable services to our tenants at a discount. We have monthly tenant networking and support meetings along with several showcasing events throughout the year. To date, we have helped more than 200 small businesses grow and achieve more than they could on their own. We congratulate them all!
At the Incubator Kitchen we believe in gratitude, the power of community and that we can use the local food community as a catalyst for helping people. Our mission is to help support regional food entrepreneurs and we are so thankful to be a part of this community!
Food Focused Education
Food-focused entrepreneurial education empowers aspiring food business owners with the skills, knowledge, and hands-on experience needed to launch, grow, and sustain successful culinary ventures within an incubator kitchen environment.
Passionate, Liked-Minded Peers
A dynamic incubator kitchen where passionate, like-minded food entrepreneurs collaborate, innovate, and support each other in bringing their culinary visions to life.
Below-market rate licensed kitchen facilities
Affordable, below-market-rate kitchen facilities designed for ghost kitchens, offering cost-effective, fully equipped spaces for food entrepreneurs to launch and scale their operations.
Network of markets, investors, mentors
A dynamic ecosystem connecting food entrepreneurs with markets, investors, and mentors to accelerate growth and innovation in the culinary industry.
Meet the Board
FAQ
What is the Incubator Kitchen Collective?
The Incubator Kitchen Collective is a nonprofit organization based in Newport, KY, dedicated to supporting food entrepreneurs in the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky region. Founded in 2013 by Rachel DesRochers, IKC offers affordable, below-market-rate kitchen facilities, business support, and a vibrant community to help culinary startups thrive.
Who can join the IKC?
What are the membership levels and costs?
IKC offers four membership tiers to accommodate various needs:
- Egg Level: $225/month for 9 hours; $25/hour thereafter.
- Chick Level: $420/month for 20 hours; $21/hour thereafter.
- Hen Level: $680/month for 40 hours; $17/hour thereafter.
- Hatch Level: $925/month for unlimited hours.
Each level includes access to kitchen facilities, storage options, and cleaning supplies. Additional storage and permanent workstations are available for an extra fee.
Is there an application fee?
Yes, there is a one-time, non-refundable application fee of $75.
Where are the IKC kitchens located?
IKC operates two kitchen facilities in Newport, KY.
- The Incubator: 517 West 7th Street
- The Hatchery: 7 Court Street
Both locations are equipped with commercial-grade appliances and offer various workstations to meet your culinary needs.
What equipment is available?
IKC Kitchens are stocked with a wide range of equipment, including but not limited to:
- 6-burner and 10-burner ranges
- 30-gallon tilt skillets
- Convection Ovens
- Mixers (20 and 60 quarts)
- Commercial Grills & Griddles
- Walk-In Refrigerators and Freezers
- Commercials Dishwashers
Specific equipment may vary by location.
What do I need to apply?
To become a member of the IKC, you will need:
1. Certificate of Insurance: Naming IKC as an additional insured
2. Food Safety Manager Certificate: Such as ServSafe
3. Health Department License: From the Northern Kentucky Health Department or the Kentucky Department for Public Health Food Safety Branch
These requirements ensure compliance with local regulations and help maintain a safe, professional environment.
How do I apply?
You can start the application process by visiting the IKC Contact Page. Fill out the form, and the IKC team will guide you through the next steps, including scheduling a tour and discussing your business needs.
What kind of support does the IKC offer?
Beyond kitchen space, IKC provides:
- Entrepreneurship Education: Workshops and resources to help you grow your business
- Networking Opportunities: Monthly meetings and events to connect with fellow food entrepreneurs
- Business Services: Access to branding experts, printing services, and distribution channels at discounted rates
IKC is more than a kitchen; it's a community committed to your success.
How can I get in touch or schedule a tour?
or inquiries or to schedule a tour, visit the IKC Contact Page. You can also email the team at ali@thegratitudecollective.org. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM.
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