HASTINGS, IA — Aspiring chefs, bakers, and food entrepreneurs in Southwest Iowa will soon have a space to call their own. The SWITCH – Lakin Foundation Training Hub is proud to announce the opening of its new Commercial Kitchen, coming in April, a shared-use space designed to transform culinary dreams into thriving local businesses. The SWITCH Commercial Kitchen will serve entrepreneurs across Mills, Fremont, Page, Montgomery, and surrounding counties. By providing affordable, licensed kitchen space and removing the high overhead costs of traditional brick-and-mortar storefronts, SWITCH is effectively lowering the barrier to entry for the local food industry.

This kitchen is a cornerstone of the SWITCH campus, prioritizing equity, accessibility, and community. Through strategic partnerships, the hub offers comprehensive support that goes beyond the stove. Members can access ServSafe certification, mentorship, and entrepreneurship workshops to ensure their businesses are as sustainable as they are delicious. “Our goal is to build a vibrant, resilient local food system,” says SWITCH Director, Kattie Lewis. “By providing the tools, the space, and the education, we are empowering underserved populations and rural entrepreneurs to turn their passion into a paycheck.”

To accommodate everything from experimental startups to established catering operations, SWITCH offers a variety of rental structures:

Hourly Rental
Half-Day & Full-Day Blocks
Monthly Memberships
Individuals and businesses interested in utilizing this space are encouraged to fill out this form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfr6xiKlTjVZjQ8Koag68CuerW3N0cMNIJKafHt4ik-U7sfsg/viewform?usp=header

About SWITCH – Lakin Foundation Training Hub:
The SWITCH – Lakin Foundation Training Hub is dedicated to creating educational partnerships that enhance vocational training opportunities. They believe collaboration with educational and industry leaders and local businesses fosters a learning environment that benefits students and the community. SWITCH’s mission is to provide accessible training solutions tailored to meet the needs of Iowa residents. Through its focus on quality, sustainability, and support, SWITCH provides the infrastructure necessary for local residents to flourish in a modern economy.