Founder of Hope & Main, a 501c3, launched in 2009 with a mission to empower an inclusive community of entrepreneurs to jumpstart and cultivate thriving food businesses that are the foundation of a more just, sustainable, and resilient food future for Rhode Island. Hope & Main provides affordable shared-use commercial kitchens; food-related business and technical assistance; access to markets; and connects members to funding and financing. Hope & Main’s diverse community includes 60% Women-led and 40% BIPOC-led businesses. To date Hope & Main has launched more than 400 food businesses—including 70 graduates– creating thousands of jobs and pouring millions of dollars into the local foodieconomy.