Findlay Market is set to welcome the newest member of its storefront accelerator program to its corner of Over-the-Rhine.
On Friday, the Corporation for Findlay Market invited residents and marketgoers to celebrate the grand opening of Juniper Seed, a locally minded, plant-based meal business.
The grand opening took place at 10 a.m. at 1809 Elm St., which serves as the short-term home of some of the Findlay Launch businesses. Visitors received a free signature waffle with a purchase. They’ll also got to meet owner Alecia Petroze, who began her food business through Findlay Market.
“From the beginning of her journey as a Findlay Kitchen member, to her hard work during our Growing into a Storefront course, (Petroze) continues to be a testament to the power of perseverance and passion,” said Lauren Wescott, entrepreneurship program manager for Findlay Market.
‘Launching’ the next generation of Cincy food entrepreneurs
Findlay Launch provides real-time experience to food-related retail and restaurant concepts. It gives entrepreneurs the space and support to quickly prove their concept or fail fast. The residency offers mentorship, industry connections, and a nine-week food retail and restaurant curriculum. It also provides 15 months in a fully built-out, operating storefront.
The program aims to boost inclusivity in the food industry. It focuses on supporting well-vetted, minority- and women-owned businesses.
Before transitioning Juniper Seed into a storefront model, Petroze focused on meal prep and delivery to clients. She focused on developing a time-saving solution for the creation of often prep-heavy vegan and plant-based meals.
Petroze said it has been her dream to open a brick-and-mortar restaurant. To that end, she enrolled in another market-run education program, Findlay Learn, in January 2024 to learn how to expand her business. After completing that nine-week cohort, she applied for Findlay Launch.
She will keep her plant-based meal prep services. But, she plans a fully vegan breakfast and brunch for her new Elm Street space.
Following their grand opening, Juniper Seed will be open Friday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., with plans to expand hours in the coming months.
“As our newest Launch resident, we’re excited to see the impact her dedication will have on the Findlay Market District,” Wescott said.
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