MCPL Culinary Business Incubation Program
MCPL Culinary Business Incubation Program
MCPL Culinary Kitchens will provide information & resources to anyone interested in starting a food business. Those businesses can additionally apply to rent the MCPL Commercial Kitchens to launch and grow their business. See the FAQs below.
Apply Here
Apply Here
The first step to launching your food businesses with MCPL is to apply online here. You will then meet with MCPL staff and tour the kitchens. If our facility is a fit for your business, you’ll then begin acquiring the necessary permits for your operation. Please review FAQs below.
Resources to Help Your Business
Resources to Help Your Business
There are more than 200 KC area organizations that are dedicated to helping small businesses. Some great places to get started are:
KC SourceLink
Helps navigate all 200+ local business resources.
Square One Small Business
MCPL’s in-house specialists help support entrepreneurs through business programs and one-on-one meetings.
UMKC Small Business Development Center
Offers classes, professional business consultants, and access to professional services.
SCORE
Offers access to free business mentors.
What does it cost to use the commercial kitchens?
Kitchen rates are $20/hr for kitchen use. Businesses sign a 1-year agreement and agree to use 10 hours or more of kitchen time each month.
What is the term of kitchen use agreement?
Businesses agree to minimum 10 hours for use each month for the term of one year (February to January of the next year).
What equipment is available?
- Six-burner range top
- Conventional ovens
- Convection ovens
- Charbroilers
- Flattops
- Walk-in coolers
- Walk-in freezer
- Tabletop and floor mixers
- Steam Kettle
- Tilt skillet
- Fryer
- Deli slicer
- Food processors
- Ice machine
- Vacuum sealer
- Heat sealers
May I store items and food onsite?
Yes, businesses may rent dedicated dry, cold, and freezer storage spaces. Dedicated storage spaces are billed monthly and costs range from $20-$80 per month for those units.
How long is the process to start using the Culinary Kitchens?
The process takes the average business 3-4 months to receive all the necessary permits and inspections to start using the MCPL Commercial Kitchens.
How do I find out more about using the Culinary Kitchens?
Please contact staff at the Culinary Kitchens for more information. Email culinary@mymcpl.org or complete a contact form.
How much does it cost to meet with Culinary Kitchens staff for advice or consultation about my food business?
There is no cost to consult with Culinary Kitchens staff about business practices, how to obtain requirements such as licenses and insurance, or to ask questions about opening or managing a food business.
How long is the process to start using a commercial kitchen at the Culinary Kitchens?
It can vary depending on the needs of each client’s business, as well as the number of customers who are using a space or scheduled to use one. Typically, the time can range from a few weeks to several months.
What licenses or permits are required to participate in the Library’s commercial kitchen program?
The licenses and permits required to operate out of the Culinary Kitchens will vary depending on the type and scope of the business. The following is a list of common registrations, licenses, certifications, and insurance you will need to use the commercial kitchens at the Culinary Kitchens. Please reach out to Culinary Kitchens staff for your specific business.
- Register your business with the Missouri Secretary of State.
- Apply for a Federal Employer Identification Number.
- Register for a State of MO Retail Sales Tax License (includes state of MO tax ID number).
- Get a zoning clearance letter from KCMO.
- Depending on your business, apply to be regulated by either the local health department, State of MO, FDA, and/or USDA.
- Acquire a KCMO Biz License.
- A ServSafe Manager’s Certification in food safety and sanitation is required.
- General Liability Insurance: MCPL has a guide with specifics. Please reach out to Culinary Kitchens staff for details.
Are there programs to help finance initial costs for licensing, fees, insurance, and inventory?
There are programs that can help you finance start up fees for your food business. A couple of options to research are AltCap and Justine Petersen.
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