Cureating Farm-to-Table Connection in the Heartland: 2023 Spring Graduates
Our vision at Cureate is to build a more interconnected, economically-vibrant community where big and small business do business with one another and resources are shared freely to uplift and empower our local, regional business community. This vision was on full display at our farm-to-table dinner at Mount Sequoyah on Saturday, April 15 when two graduating cohorts from Cureate Courses NWA worked together to pull off one of the most beautiful, collaborative 5-course meals we have ever witnessed.
2023 Caterer/Baker Cohort Winner @tytyhophop
Last night was a milestone. To be quite honest, I’m still processing the impact that last night will have on the many years to come for Hopwood Breads. At the end of this past December I faced a professional crossroads in my life and I chose to put all that I had into this little cottage bakery. Last night was the culmination of four months of the hardest I’ve worked for anything. I’ve only had this “gut feeling” desire to pursue something one other time in my life. Hopwood Breads is about to enter an era that I could only dream of two years ago. Hell, five years ago I would call you delusional if you told me I would be living in Fayetteville, AR and have a bakery built inside my home. But moving to Fayetteville was one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life. It has such a beautiful way of building up community around you. This would not be possible without the support that each and every one of you have given me. From the deepest depths of my heart, thank you so very much. I wanted to make a list of local small businesses that have directly or indirectly been a source of support for Hopwood Breads (if I’m forgetting someone, I apologize. I’m a little hungover.)
2023 Farm Cohort Winner
@mountolivefarms
I don’t know if I can even put into words what a joy last night was. The culmination of our course with @cureateco and the last 2.5 years of starting our business. The encouragement of so many friends, family, professionals, artists, and just super kind strangers who want to see local businesses thrive. I truly believe that scaling up our little farm to supply our local community with exceptional and sustainably grown flowers can have a huge impact on our carbon and kindness footprint. A huge thank you to @cureateco and @forgefund for believing in my vision enough to award us such a generous sum. I do not take it lightly. The impact this will have on our ability to grow is HUGE and I can’t wait to see it unfold so stay tuned!!
And you guys, the relationships I have made through this course with other growers and artisans cannot be overstated. These are some of the most driven, creative, passionate, and talented people I have met. They are all in Arkansas so please go give them a follow and source locally whenever possible! You are all gold.
2023 Community Fund Winner
@mingos_bbq
“The best part of the event, the folx we had the chance to work alongside of course! Thank you Chef Jesus for stepping into that kitchen with us. We couldn’t look the same way for a photo but the vibe in the kitchen was incredible ! We had so much fun and were so impressed with your flavors. If you’re in the Fayeteville area keep your eye on @mingos_bbq 🔥”
- photo and caption by @wildharenursery
Each course of the farm-to-table meal had a pairing between a farmer and a caterer. Pictured is the pairing between Mingo’s and Wild Hare for the main course.
Learn about all of the businesses from the 2023 Spring Cohorts below, and follow Cureate on Instagram to find out about upcoming programs for both small business owners and community members alike!
Caterer/Baker Cohort
https://nelliebsbakery.square.site; @nelliebsbakery
www.hopwoodbreads.com; @tytyhophop
https://www.facebook.com/JFEatery22; @jf_eatery_
www.thefarmex.com; @dogwood_hills_bb
www.debsgourmetpantry.com; @debsgourmetpantry
@miroll.nwa
@mingos_bbq
Farmer Cohort
www.wildharelr.com; @wildharenursery
www.murderfarm.com; @murderfarm_ar
www.thefirelightfarm.square.site; @thefirelightfarm
www.mountolivefarms.com; @mountolivefarms
www.OzarkAllSeasons.com; @ozarkallseasons
Thank you to FORGE for your continued support of Cureate Courses NWA and dedication to community development and economic sustainability across the region.
