Over four decades ago, the González family launched the inaugural Northgate González Market in Anaheim, California, which quickly became a cultural hub for the diverse, multigenerational working families of central Anaheim. More than just a grocery store, it played a pivotal role in community cohesion and identity.
Today, the original Northgate González Markets location has evolved beyond its grocery store roots. It is now poised to transform into Store One, a pioneering center for culinary entrepreneurship and workforce training.
In 2019, amid economic disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Anaheim purchased the vacant property from Northgate González Market for $4.75 million, envisioning Store One as a catalyst for local small businesses and post-pandemic economic recovery, particularly within the hospitality and culinary sectors.
Significant funding milestones have been achieved for Store One, located at the former site of the first Northgate González Market on Anaheim Boulevard. The project secured $7.75 million in public funding for construction and an additional $3 million from private donations to support equipment and operations.
Store One represents a visionary partnership between the City of Anaheim and the Anaheim Community Foundation. It aims to support food business startups and enhance the local culinary workforce in Orange County, a region known for its vibrant hospitality industry and innovative food entrepreneurs.
Scheduled to open in 2025, Store One will annually serve hundreds of adults and youth through culinary business incubation, workforce training, and upskilling programs. It plans to graduate up to 120 culinary trainees and support 20 food-related startups per year.
The 12,000-square-foot facility will feature a teaching kitchen for training chefs, line cooks, and restaurant managers, alongside a batch production kitchen for food entrepreneurs. Additionally, it will include a showcase kitchen for events, a community garden, and flexible space for gatherings. Entrepreneurs will have opportunities to sell their culinary creations directly to consumers from pop-up storefronts.
Store One aims to become a vital community asset, offering not only training and business support but also hosting diverse community events, dinners, health classes, urban farming initiatives, and more. It embodies a collective effort among Anaheim’s civic, nonprofit, educational, philanthropic, and business leaders to create lasting economic opportunities and enrich community life.
Website: https://www.storeoneanaheim.org/
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