Iowa State University Extension and Outreach’s Food Innovation and Business Hub, a resource that helps Iowa entrepreneurs develop successful food businesses, will continue its monthly Lunch and Learn webinar series in 2026. 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 at ISU Extension and Outreach, said the series will help participants move closer to regulatory compliance and profitability.
“These bite‑sized lunch and learn webinars are designed specifically for small food business owners,” said Hartsook. “We’ll offer real-world experiences and practical tips on everything from food safety to marketing to using AI efficiently in your business. Bring your lunch and leave with ideas you can use.”
Each session will begin at noon on its respective date and feature a presentation from Iowa State food business and food safety experts, followed by an open question-and-answer session.
Webinar schedule and registration
- July 7: Food Innovation and Business Hub Analytical Services
- Aug. 4: Shelf-Stable Frostings
- Sept. 1: An Intro to AI in Your Small Food Business
- Oct. 6: Food Marketing Tactics That Work
- Nov. 3: All About the Sauce
- Dec. 1: Shelf-Stable Frostings
For more information about the Food Innovation and Business Hub and the webinar series, contact Hartsook at hartc@iastate.edu.
Photo credit: MW Photography – adobe.stock.com
