What’s Cooking In The Catapult Kitchen?
Explore the bustling nexus of innovation and culinary craftsmanship within Lakeland's very own Catapult! Within these walls, a symphony of creativity and entrepreneurship unfolds, shaping the landscape of our city in ways both exciting and delicious. Catapult, a privately funded non-profit organization, stands as a beacon of progress, dedicated to propelling startups forward and enriching Lakeland's vibrant food scene.
In this bustling hub of creativity and entrepreneurship, Catapult isn't merely a workspace; it's a transformative force driving positive change throughout our community. As the curtains rise on this stage of innovation, a cast of visionaries, chefs, and culinary artisans takes center stage, each with a story to tell and a dish to delight.
Amidst the whirlwind of activity, one initiative stands out: the Catapult Kitchen and its groundbreaking Restaurant Residency Program. What began as a humble pop-up window has blossomed into a revolutionary concept, offering a platform for culinary talent to shine. Within these walls, a temporary restaurant springs to life, showcasing the diverse flavors and talents of Lakeland's own.
The Restaurant Residency Program
Through the Restaurant Residency Program, Catapult isn't just fostering the growth of startups; it's cultivating community gathering places and spotlighting the rich culinary tapestry that defines our city. From supporting aspiring chefs to savoring delectable creations, there's always something simmering at Catapult, inviting all to partake in this delectable journey of entrepreneurship and culinary craftsmanship.
The Restaurant Residency program at Catapult is a groundbreaking initiative designed to empower its members to bring their culinary dreams to life. With a vision to provide entrepreneurs with the platform they need to test their concepts and showcase their talents, this program is paving the way for future success.
At the heart of the Residency Program lies the opportunity for Catapult's members to not only refine their offerings but also to demonstrate their viability to potential landlords and loan officers. By bringing their sales to the forefront at Catapult, members can secure the funding and space necessary for a permanent location, turning their aspirations into reality.
The inaugural resident, The Cultivated Pig, is set to tantalize taste buds with their delectable creations. From lunchtime delights to evening feasts, Catapult will be buzzing with the aroma of culinary innovation as The Cultivated Pig takes center stage. Serving up their culinary delights Wednesday through Saturday, The Cultivated Pig invites visitors to join them on a journey of flavor exploration over the next few months.
“Being a Catapult member has been one of the best business decisions I’ve made. Not only do the kitchen businesses foster a strong sense of camaraderie and a willingness to support each other’s success, but you also benefit from the additional support of Catapult and its array of mentorship programs. They truly want to help your business succeed so you can be a benefit to the local community.
Being chosen as the first business to pilot Catapult’s Restaurant Residency Program has been exciting for The Cultivated Pig. Every day we are encountering a fresh set of challenges that we are actively learning to overcome. The daily routine of running a restaurant is in stark contrast to our previous “popup” model. Ultimately we are learning how to manage payroll, lead a diverse staff and maintain the daily requirements of a successful restaurant. This will serve as our compass as we navigate through the next phase of entrepreneurship.”
Image by Catapult of Co-Founders of The Cultivated Pig, Jimmy Fox (left) and Kevin Aydelott (right)
Indulge in a tantalizing array of flavors with The Cultivated Pig's carefully crafted menu, where every dish is a celebration of culinary innovation and tradition. Here's a sneak peek at some of the mouthwatering offerings:
Nachos: Featuring your choice of prime brisket or pulled pork atop a bed of crispy tortilla chips, smothered in cheese sauce, and garnished with jalapeños, shredded lettuce, and pickled onions.
Brisket Chili: Savor 8 ounces of hearty brisket chili topped with shredded cheddar cheese and pico de Gallo, a comforting classic with a flavorful twist.
Grilled Eggplant: Delight in creamy grilled eggplant served with garlic hummus, fresh mint, tantalizing seasoning, and warm naan bread, a vegetarian delight bursting with Mediterranean flavors.
Loaded Mac-n-Cheese: Dive into a bowl of indulgence with your choice of brisket or pulled pork, drizzled with tangy BBQ sauce and garnished with green onions, the ultimate comfort food with a savory punch.
Smoked Chicken Wings: Choose from buffalo, garlic parmesan, or gochujang flavors and enjoy tender smoked chicken wings served with your choice of ranch or smoked blue cheese dressing, available in 6, 12, or 20 count.
As the very first resident, The Cultivated Pig embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship and culinary excellence that defines Catapult. With their passion for flavor and commitment to quality, they exemplify the values that drive the Residency Program forward. Whether you're craving a hearty meal or looking to explore new culinary horizons, The Cultivated Pig's menu promises to satisfy every palate with its bold flavors and inventive twists on classic favorites.
Join Catapult as it supports and celebrates The Cultivated Pig and all future residents on their quest to bring their culinary visions to life. From concept to creation, Catapult is proud to be the launchpad for the next generation of culinary stars.
A Year In Review
In Catapult's 2023 Annual Report, the numbers speak volumes about the organization's impact and growth over the past year. With a thriving community of 279 members, Catapult continues to serve as a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship in Lakeland and beyond.
Of these members, 109 are part of "the incubator," a program designed to support startups and foster their development. This dedicated support system provides budding entrepreneurs with the resources and guidance they need to bring their ideas to fruition.
When it comes to industries housed at Catapult, the kitchen reigns supreme, reflecting the region's rich culinary heritage and entrepreneurial spirit. Following closely behind are technology, marketing, and manufacturing, showcasing the diverse range of talents and industries represented within Catapult's walls.
Within the kitchen sector specifically, there are 55 kitchen founders leading the charge, supported by a total of 111 individuals employed by kitchen businesses. This dynamic ecosystem is a testament to the thriving food scene in Lakeland and the invaluable role that Catapult plays in nurturing culinary talent.
“Maggie Leach, the former Kitchen Director, was instrumental in helping us find our space. She’s been our biggest supporter at Catapult since day one and has always understood and believed in our vision.”
Furthermore, the breakdown of kitchen businesses highlights the diversity and innovation present in this sector. With 21 businesses categorized as "pre-restaurant," 7 as "pre-bakery," and 11 as "CPG / Consumer Packaged Goods," Catapult is not only supporting traditional restaurant ventures but also paving the way for innovative food products and culinary experiences.
As Catapult continues to grow and evolve, these numbers underscore its commitment to fostering entrepreneurship, supporting startups, and driving economic growth in the Lakeland community. With each member and every success story, Catapult's impact reverberates far beyond its walls, shaping the future of business and innovation in the region.
Gabi & Gio Favilli-Vigoreaux, Bandidas Bake Shop — Catapulter of the Year Award Winners
Resources & Mentorships
Catapult stands out not only for its physical space and support for startups but also for its wealth of resources and mentorship opportunities available to its members. Recognizing that entrepreneurial success extends beyond culinary expertise, Catapult offers access to a diverse array of "Experts in Residence" who provide invaluable guidance across various aspects of business management.
Whether members need assistance with branding, marketing, budgeting, taxes, or more, Catapult's roster of experts is ready to lend their expertise. Here are just a few of the notable experts available to Catapult members:
Tim Cox — Branding Expert: With a wealth of experience as the retired Director of Creative Services for Publix, Tim Cox brings invaluable insights into the world of branding. His expertise helps members craft compelling brand identities that resonate with their target audience.
Holly Kelley — Accounting Expert: As a certified public accountant with 26 years of tax experience in both the public and private sectors, Holly Kelley offers indispensable guidance in navigating the complexities of accounting and tax management.
Steve Scruggs — Economic Development Expert: Through the Lakeland Economic Development Council (L.E.D.C.), Steve Scruggs provides members with invaluable connections, resources, and insights into the city's development landscape. From tax incentives to real estate opportunities, his expertise facilitates informed decision-making for members.
Hakim Dyer — Finance Expert: Specializing in building financial understanding and implementing business objectives, Hakim Dyer helps members master finance as the language of business. His guidance enables members to make strategic financial decisions that drive growth and success.
Greg Manning — Small Business Expert: With experience from the Small Business Development Council, Greg Manning assists members in writing business plans, developing strategies, managing operations, and conducting market analyses. His expertise empowers members to navigate the complexities of small business ownership with confidence.
Rebecca Vallellanes — Human Resources Expert: Rebecca Vallellanes brings her expertise in human resources to assist members with hiring, creating job descriptions, developing employee handbooks, crafting compensation packages, and managing employee performance. Her guidance ensures that members build strong and compliant HR practices to support their teams.
“Since joining Catapult in June of 2023, I’ve experienced invaluable support that has been pivotal in propelling my business forward. From the outset, Elena and Maggie were instrumental in offering guidance and steering me towards the right decisions. The wealth of resources made available through partnerships and resident experts has truly made a significant difference. Through interactions with fellow members, past and present, I’ve fostered meaningful relationships that offer invaluable insights. I’m deeply thankful for the supportive community at Catapult, and I can confidently say that my business owes its existence to their unwavering assistance.”
Mark Sutton, Owner of Andrew Logans Artisan Chocolates & Confections
With access to such a diverse and experienced pool of experts, Catapult members have the support they need to thrive beyond the kitchen. Whether refining their brand identity, managing finances, or developing HR policies, Catapult's resources and mentorship opportunities empower members to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship with confidence and success.
Catapult stands as not just a workspace but a thriving ecosystem where innovation, entrepreneurship, and culinary excellence converge. Through initiatives like the Restaurant Residency Program and a robust network of experts, Catapult provides its members with the tools, resources, and mentorship necessary to turn their culinary dreams into reality.
From the bustling kitchen incubator to the diverse array of industry experts, Catapult fosters an environment where startups can flourish, ideas can thrive, and communities can gather. As we reflect on Catapult's achievements and the impact it has made on Lakeland's food scene and beyond, it's clear that the journey is just beginning.
As Catapult continues to grow and evolve, we invite you to join us in celebrating the spirit of entrepreneurship and culinary innovation that defines our community. Whether you're a budding chef, a seasoned entrepreneur, or simply a lover of good food, there's a place for you at Catapult.
So come on down, explore, connect, and be inspired. Together, let's continue to write the next chapter in Lakeland's culinary story, one delicious dish, and entrepreneurial success at a time. At Catapult, the future is bright, and the possibilities are endless.