From Stafford County Eco Devo
Stafford County Economic Development Inc. (SCED) has signed a commercial lease agreement with Equity Bank to establish a new commercial kitchen and training space in Stafford County. Equity Bank hopes to help boost entrepreneurial efforts in Stafford County with a $1 per year lease to Stafford County Economic Development in a community-friendly deal.
The new facility will provide a dedicated space for local food entrepreneurs and small businesses to prepare products in a licensed kitchen, store equipment, and access ongoing business support. In addition to offering the physical kitchen space, SCED will provide training and technical assistance to help food businesses succeed. Training opportunities will include support in product creation, marketing, sales, product labeling, and distribution strategies, ensuring local businesses are well-positioned to grow and reach new markets.
Renovations of the leased space will begin in the coming months as SCED pursues grant funding and additional resources to outfit the kitchen. Once complete, the space will serve as both a production facility and a training venue, strengthening Stafford County’s food system and supporting value-added agriculture initiatives.
“This new commercial kitchen represents an exciting step for local business development in Stafford County,” said Ryan Russell, Executive Director of Stafford County Economic Development. “We’re not just creating a kitchen—we’re building a hub where entrepreneurs can gain the tools, skills, and resources needed to thrive.”
By helping entrepreneurs overcome common barriers to entry—such as access to certified kitchen space, proper labeling, and distribution channels—SCED aims to fuel innovation and small business growth across the region.
About Stafford County Economic Development Inc.
Stafford County Economic Development works to strengthen the community through business development, housing, childcare, and local food system initiatives. By supporting entrepreneurship and providing critical resources, SCED fosters economic opportunity and enhances the quality of life in Stafford County. Learn more at staffordecodevo.com.
About Equity Bank
Equity Bank offers a full range of financial solutions, including commercial loans, consumer banking, mortgage loans, trust and wealth management services and treasury management services, while delivering the high-quality, relationship-based customer service of a community bank. Equity’s common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “EQBK.” Learn more at www.equitybank.com.