Program Overview
The Ketchikan Agricultural Producers’ Association (KAPA) is preparing to launch its Food Business Technical Assistance Program in October 2025 to support the next generation of local food entrepreneurs. Designed with input from community stakeholders and aligned with future Food Hub operations, this program offers Alaska-specific training, resources, and mentorship to help small food businesses start strong and grow sustainably.
Program Goals
- Provide accessible, localized guidance on launching food businesses in Alaska
- Support the development of 10–15 new cottage food ventures in 2025
- Build a pipeline of future KAPA Food Hub users
- Establish a new earned revenue stream for KAPA
- Position KAPA as a go-to resource for food entrepreneurship in Southeast Alaska
Workshop Structure
Workshops will begin in October and will be offered in both full-day and split-session formats, depending on community preference.
Topics Include:
- Alaska cottage food laws, regulations, and labeling requirements
- Business licensing, taxes, and financial foundations
- Packaging, pricing, and product development for Southeast markets
- Digital marketing and sales strategies
- Expansion pathways and scaling through the KAPA Food Hub
Hands-On Learning Features:
- Label creation and compliance exercises
- Live payment system setup demos
- Pricing calculations and strategy tools
- Marketing planning worksheets
- Guest panels with experienced local entrepreneurs
Ongoing Support Services
Participants will also have access to follow-up business support:
- Mentorship Program: 3-month guided support from seasoned local producers
- Office Hours: Drop-in sessions for real-time advice and troubleshooting
- Consulting: Available for help with bookkeeping, financial modeling, and more
Launch Timeline
- Spring–Summer 2025: Curriculum development, presenter recruitment, registration opens
- October 2025: First workshop launches in Ketchikan
- Late 2025–Beyond: Workshops offered quarterly or by demand, with full support services available
Expected Community Impact
Economic Growth
- Kickstarts new micro-businesses and strengthens existing ones
- Supports diverse food entrepreneurs, including Alaska Native and rural producers
- Lays groundwork for future Food Hub utilization
Food Security & Local Access
- Encourages production of local goods
- Improves community resilience and food independence
- Reduces barriers for value-added food production
Skills & Workforce Development
- Delivers practical training in safe food handling, marketing, and entrepreneurship
- Supports a pipeline of talent for the regional food economy
- Honors and uplifts traditional food knowledge and innovation
Next Steps
KAPA is finalizing the curriculum, developing outreach materials, and confirming workshop presenters and mentors. Registration for the first workshop will open in late summer 2025.
To learn more or get involved as a participant, mentor, or partner, please contact grow@ketchikanagriculture.org