The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Vendors to get a taste of entrepreneurship at food fair

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Action from last year’s food vendor fair. Photo courtesy of Pasco Economic Development Council

DADE CITY – UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County and Pasco Economic Development Council present the fifth annual SMARTstart Food Vendor Fair on Jan. 16.

The event aims to support current food entrepreneurs’ businesses. Organizers say this is a great opportunity to buy food and arrange event catering or gifts.

“The SMARTstart Food Vendor Fair has been a great way for the community to come together and support local food entrepreneurs,” shared Dan Mitchell, SMARTstart program director. “Over the past five years, we’ve seen some amazing businesses get their start and grow through this event. It’s always exciting to see the creativity and passion these vendors bring to the table, and I’m looking forward to seeing what’s in store this year.”

The East Pasco Incubator Kitchen features a commercial incubator kitchen where budding food entrepreneurs can produce food in a licensed commercial kitchen and then use the packaging and labeling station to create nutrition fact labels for their products. Members also get access to business coaching through the SMARTstart Program.

This center is co-located with UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County and features a community garden where SMARTstart members can grow their own ingredients.

Participating SMARTstart Incubator members include:

  • A Whole Lotta Nadas – Empanadas with a twist on familiar flavors.
  • Bee Ready 4 Anything LLC –  All your bee needs, including honey.
  • Blue Crow Espresso – Espresso from a mobile coffee bike.
  • Hey Mon Caribbean Cooking Magic – Fresh sauces and seasonings to spice up meals.
  • Kreyolli Flavors, LLC – Healthy spices, herbs, and seasonings.
  • Lett’s Kitchen – Home-cooked meals with a touch of soul and flavor.
  • Son’ni Boi & Petal, Inc – Sweet treats, such as Signature Cashew Brittle, for events, parties or gatherings.
  • The Bean Buggy – A stagecoach serving espresso, desserts and craft drinks across northern Tampa.

 

Want to go?

SMARTstart Food Vendor Fair takes place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Jan. 16 at the SMARTstart East Pasco Entrepreneur Center, 15029 14th St., Dade City. Admission and parking are free. Item prices will vary.