September 11 - 13, 2025 in Lawrence, KS

What to Expect

The Food Business Start-Up Summit, happening September 11–13, 2025, in Lawrence, Kansas, is not your typical conference — it's a hands-on, working retreat designed to move your business forward.

Apply as a Business Project Team with up to 2 of your key partners — whether they’re your funder, marketer, spouse, or farm manager — to tackle the real challenges and barriers your business is facing. You'll join a dynamic community of food and farm entrepreneurs from across Kansas and engage in practical problem-solving alongside seasoned Key Informants in areas like finance, operations, and more.

This is more than networking. You’ll leave with:

• Tangible progress on your business goals

• Fresh insights from peers facing similar challenges

• A stronger support network to help guide your next steps

In addition to the core working sessions, you’ll have the opportunity to explore optional site visits to inspiring local food system landmarks, including a cooperatively owned grocery store, a county-operated incubator kitchen, and a thriving local farm.

We’re also proud to spotlight local food throughout the event. Meals will feature regional ingredients, and when you're free to explore on your own, downtown Lawrence’s walkable and delicious dining scene is just steps away.

 

Who Should Apply

This event is intended for food and farm entrepreneurs based in Kansas who are in the early stages of business development or growth.

For-profit food ventures are eligible to apply, including farms, food producers, processors, caterers, and mobile/retail food businesses.

To ensure a meaningful and productive experience for all participants, we are using an application process—not to limit access, but to better understand the needs, backgrounds, and goals of those interested in attending.

The Heartland Regional Food Business Center is committed to supporting the full spectrum of our regional food system, from producers and processors to preservers, manufacturers, and culinary entrepreneurs. By learning more about each applicant, we can thoughtfully shape a diverse cohort of business project teams and tailor the Summit experience to maximize learning, connection, and impact for all involved.

The Priority Application is now open, with the first round of review on July 1; notification of selection can be expected by July 15, with registration information to follow. Additional applications will be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis between July 1 and August 1.

It is free to apply. For the Business Project Teams selected, the registration fee will be $300 per team. Project Teams may include up to three people.