
The Chef-In-Residence Program, in partnership with In the Business of Food (IBF Detroit), Eastern Market, and Wayne State University, aims to empower women and nonbinary entrepreneurs in the food business and the creation of quality food as an integral part of their food offerings, and educating its members and the community at large by making informed decisions about nutrition.
This 26-week cohort includes nutrition education, lending resources, mentorship, health & wellness, collaborative economic and relationship building, and professional development.
Application Coming Soon
Chef-in-Residence Fellows receive the following:
The BasBlue Foundation Grant
The BasBlue Foundation Grant presents fellows with financial support to kickstart or advance their entrepreneurial ventures. This grant not only eases financial barriers but also empowers fellows to innovate, experiment, and implement their business ideas with greater confidence and resources.
Subject Matter Expert Instruction
Annual BasBlue Membership
The Annual BasBlue Membership provides fellows with exclusive access to a vibrant community of professionals and resources. This membership includes networking opportunities, workshops, and events designed to foster collaboration, learning, and growth in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
1:1 Mentorship
The fellowship’s 1:1 Mentorship for 6-Months offers personalized guidance, allowing fellows to receive tailored advice and support from experienced entrepreneurs. This mentorship focuses on addressing individual challenges and setting specific goals, enhancing both personal and professional development.
Application Requirements + Timeline
Applicant Requirements
All applicants must:
- Have a for-profit early-stage food service-based business (product-based food businesses are not eligible).
- Reside in Detroit / Southeast Michigan.
- Identify as a woman or nonbinary.
- Be over the age of 21 by application date.
- Be a legal resident of the U.S.
- Be a member of a historically underrepresented and under-resourced community.
- Business revenue can be no more than $50,000/year
Application Timeline
- Monday, June 17th 2024: Applications Open
- Friday, June 28 2024: Applications Close
- Tuesday, July 23 2024: Cohort Begins
- Tuesday, February 4 2024: Program Ends