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Prism EDC: UpStart Kitchen & Brigade MKE

A nonprofit organization

PRISM Economic Development Corporation was founded by the Parklawn Assembly of God Church with the goal of bringing hope and opportunity to the residents of Milwaukee’s Sherman Park neighborhood. After the 2016 civil disturbances in Sherman Park, Church leaders saw firsthand the community’s frustration with high unemployment and lack of living wage jobs for African-American residents.

In response to this situation, Prism developed and now operates UpStart Kitchen, a shared commercial kitchen for entrepreneurs who want to grow or start their food-oriented business.

While there are many would-be entrepreneurs with big dreams, they lacked the resources, networking opportunities and support systems necessary for launching a business. UpStart provides affordable, state-of-the-art space alongside training, mentoring and community connections to help them succeed.

Also, since the start of the pandemic, Prism began a meals program to assist individuals and families facing food insecurity. This program has prepared and delivered 100,000+ meals and continues to support participants in Milwaukee County’s Housing First Program.

KO's Delicious a member - client of Upstart Kitchen

Meals Program Prep

Andren Jett of Grsy - Jett Cafe our member - client

Prism is now also working with the Shular Institute of Atlanta to establish a culinary training program. The program will focus on expanding economic opportunity while providing culinary skills training for Milwaukee youth. The goal is to create a pipeline of talent to support Milwaukee’s rapidly growing hospitality industry.