HARDWICK – In January, the Vermont Food Venture Center (VFVC) celebrated its 15 year anniversary. Owned and operated by the Center for Agriculture Economy (CAE), the VFVC was established in 2011, opening their doors in Hardwick to offer three state-of-the-art, shared-use commercial kitchens to rent for food entrepreneurs, farmers and community groups.
Designed for those seeking to grow their business, the kitchens are equipped with ovens, stove tops, food processors, steam kettles, fillers, blenders, mixers, peelers and other kitchen equipment.
The goal of the VFVC is to support job creation, strengthen Vermont’s food businesses, create opportunities for farmers and further integrate the agricultural economy into the community and the state.
According to VFVC’s monthly newsletter, over 100 businesses have produced over 500 different products at the VFVC since the non-profit began its operation. Improvements to the space have continued, with significant investments in kitchen equipment and further upgrades planned for 2026.
Colleen Crist, CAE Food Production Advisor, reflected on the past 15 years of operations in Hardwick: “Over the next year, I plan to continue working to ensure that aspiring food entrepreneurs are aware of the VFVC and everything we offer, while also providing our current clients with the tools to develop their business.
“I’m looking forward to improving efficiencies in both big and small ways, with everything from clearly labeled kitchen equipment to moving our freezer and cooler to make a more efficient workflow. We’ll also continue to work on marketing the VFVC, letting shoppers know when they are purchasing products made in Hardwick, and letting food businesses across the state know about the resources we offer.
“Finally, we’ll continue to invest in keeping our equipment well-maintained and purchasing new and upgraded equipment as needed.”
Raymonda Parchment is a Hardwick Gazette reporter. She recently graduated from Vermont State University - Castleton with a Bachelor’s Degree in English. She is a strong supporter of freedom of speech, and the right to publish information, opinions, and ideas without censorship or restraint. She is a lifelong lover of the written word, and is excited to join the team as a staff member.
