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asey Steele, armed with a degree in architecture from NDSU in 2009, did something a little unexpected following graduation; she took a job at the YWCA taking care of children.

After working there for awhile, she asked if she could take advantage of the YWCA’s commercial kitchen as she’d started her side business Love in the Oven Bakery, a special occasion, treats-on-demand operation.

“I have a really supportive husband who has always been by my side,” said Steele. “After a few years at the YWCA, I knew that I needed my own kitchen space, but wanted to offer others the ability to use the kitchen for their businesses, too.”

Steele’s husband, Matt, is an electrical engineer at Applied Engineering and loves his job. This stability has allowed Steele to research and finally open Square One Rental Kitchen and Event Center earlier this year.

“I think I caught the entrepreneurial bug from my parents,” said Steele. Her parents own and operate homes in central Minnesota for the developmentally disabled. “I’m stubborn and I enjoy making my own business decisions.”

Steele didn’t want the kitchen space to be intimidating to businesses and other renters. That’s why she created two fully-stocked, straightforward kitchens and a dedicated area for packaging and decorating food products. The space also boasts an event center perfect for hosting business after hours, team-building events, and small celebrations.

“These are everybody’s kitchens,” added Steele. “We have the first of its kind in the state and our space offers the flexibility that businesses need.”

Several of the businesses currently taking advantage of the kitchens include Libby’s Cupcakes, Jen’s Breads, Lush Lola’s, Rose Cheesecakes, Bob’s Quality Catering, Joe Sandwich, Romo’s Tacos, Gigi’s Ice Lollies, Buttercream Bliss, Four Seasonings, and Mauii Sauce.

“I’ve watched these clients become tight-knit and develop a sense of camaraderie just by working in the same kitchen space,” observed Steele. “Even if they’re competing food businesses, they work well together here!”

NDSU has hosted speakers and events in the event center that seats up to 40 people. It is a perfect location for a groom’s dinner, a baking-themed birthday party, or a one-of-a-kind bachelorette soiree.

“There’s no need to bring anything other than the food,” said Steele, of hosting a party in the event center. The center offers full silverware and plateware service. “And you don’t even have to bring that if you’re planning to have the food or treats catered!”

The kitchen incubator, with its distinctive model, reflects Steele’s vibrant personality and knack for running a business. Steele also offers cooking classes to help increase comfort in the kitchen for a variety of participants.

“I have been empowered and supported throughout the process of launching this space for my community,” said Steele. “Now I want to do the same for other businesses as well as groups looking for a unique way to celebrate or bring their food product to market.”

Square One Kitchen Rental and Event Center is located at 1407 1st Ave N in Fargo. Learn more at squareonekitchens.com. [AWM]