Iowa State University Extension and Outreach’s Food Innovation and Business Hub, a resource that helps Iowa entrepreneurs develop successful food businesses, will host a monthly “Lunch and Learn” webinar series in 2026 to support current and aspiring Iowa food entrepreneurs. The webinars are offered at no cost and open to all.

The series is specifically designed for food business owners, farmers exploring value-added products and individuals in the early stages of developing a food-based enterprise.

Christa Hartsook, program manager for Farm, Food and Enterprise Development, said the series will help participants move closer to regulatory compliance and profitability.

“Anyone who is interested in developing a value-added business and even those who are at an idea stage will still find value in attending,” she said. “Each webinar will include specific take-away points that will provide those with a food business some ideas to immediately implement.”

Each session will begin at noon on its respective date and feature a presentation from ISU food business and food safety experts, followed by an open question-and-answer session.

Webinar schedule and registration

• March 3: What is the Food Innovation and Business Hub?
• April 7: Differences in a Cottage Food License vs. Home Food Processing Establishment License
• May 5: Identifying Your Customers
• June 9: Food Safety 101 - Understanding Water Activity, pH, Microorganisms
• July 7: Food Innovation and Business Hub Analytical Services
• Aug. 4: Shelf-Stable Frostings

Remaining webinar dates and topics will be announced at a later date.

For more information about the Food Innovation and Business Hub and the webinar series, contact Hartsook at hartc@iastate.edu.