UpStart Kitchen was scheduled to open this spring but pushed back its launch because of the coronavirus pandemic. The food incubator for food entrepreneurs, UpStart Kitchen at 4325 W. Fond du Lac Ave., celebrated its official launch Sept. 15.
Since pushing back its opening, the commercial kitchen and business incubator in the Sherman Park neighborhood has been serving meals to people facing food insecurity. UpStart Kitchen served as a meal production center for people who are homebound or food insecure throughout the spring and summer. It has served more than 25,000 meals since April. The kitchen has food storage and preparation space and offers support services like mentoring and community connections. The 24-hour kitchen can accommodate up to 40 entrepreneurs.