Nestled in the heart of Clovis at Ashlan and Willow avenues, the Clovis Culinary Center (CCC) has become a bustling hub for culinary entrepreneurs. Since its inception in 2018, CCC has supported more than 300 start-up food businesses, and 2024 was a banner year for this certified commercial kitchen. A Record-Breaking Year In 2024, the CCC witnessed remarkable growth: 92 active users utilized the kitchen’s facilities. The center saw a 480% increase in catering and a 340% rise in baked goods sales. Users clocked a whopping 9,024 hours in the kitchen—a testament to the thriving culinary activity within its walls. The CCC played a pivotal role in the creation of 85 full-time jobs and 25 seasonal jobs, demonstrating its impact on the local economy. Mike Osegueda, Board President of CCC, proudly shared these milestones, reflecting on how the center continues to bolster the Central Valley’s economy while empowering entrepreneurs. “The Clovis Culinary Center is proud of all the work its users put into their businesses in 2024 and is looking forward to more opportunity, more new businesses and more delicious things to eat in 2025. Anybody looking to start or grow their small food business should consider our kitchen.” – Mike Osegueda Empowering Entrepreneurs The CCC isn’t just a kitchen; it’s a launchpad for dreams. With a focus on inclusivity and economic development, the center has achieved: Starting 34 new businesses in 2024 alone. Transitioning 26 home-based food businesses into professional setups. Helping five entrepreneurs open their own restaurants. Notably, CCC serves a diverse community of entrepreneurs: 62% of businesses are run by women. 68% are minority-owned. 37% represent very-low to moderate-income individuals. A Diverse Culinary Community The CCC fosters an array of food ventures: 58.9% are specialty food producers. 20.5% are caterers. 8.8% focus on value-added food production. 5.9% are bakers. 5.9% are private chefs. Each of these ventures contributes to the unique and growing culinary landscape of the Central Valley. Community and Support Supported by the City of Clovis, federal grants, and private donations, CCC offers more than just a workspace. The center provides grants for qualified veterans and economically challenged residents, ensuring that access to entrepreneurship is open to all. As the Clovis Culinary Center continues to expand, it solidifies its role as a vital resource for local food businesses, creating opportunities for growth, job creation, and economic impact. A Look Ahead With its impressive 2024 achievements, the CCC is poised to keep transforming lives and contributing to the vibrant culinary culture of the Central Valley. Whether you’re dreaming of starting a catering business, opening a bakery, or scaling up your home-based food operation, the CCC is here to turn your vision into reality. If you’re interested in learning more or supporting this incredible initiative, visit the Clovis Culinary Center and witness the power of community and innovation firsthand.