MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS
The Commissary has everything you need to start or grow a successful food business: a legal & licensed commercial kitchen ready for use, 40’ line of professional equipment, prep stations, flexible booking, 24-hour access, pick-up window, and more. In addition to all this, The Commissary offers members food industry support and perks you won’t find anywhere else.
MEMBERSHIP INCLUDES
Educational growth through workshops
Mentorship from our Entrepreneurs in Residence
Access to business incubation services
On-site staff support & industry consultants
Exposure on The Commissary’s social media and/or website
Advanced online scheduling for the kitchens
Public-facing pick-up window for to-go/pick-up orders
24/7 fob access & security
Towels & cleaning supplies
Janitorial & pest control
Utilities
Garbage Removal
Facility & equipment orientation
Opportunity to sell at The Commissary’s Rochester Public Market stall
Member benefits to programs from partners like Visit Rochester, Chamber of Commerce, Bossy Roc, and more
Discounts from partner vendors and local companies
COSTS
The kitchen is open for when you need it. Members schedule their time in the kitchen through our online scheduling portal. A rental in the kitchen reserves you a 10 foot prep with access to short-term refrigeration, hand sink, our 40’ line of commercial grade equipment, and our dishwashing area. All members need to provide their own small wares such as knives, mixing bowls, sheet pans, and pots.
Security Deposit: $200
Annual membership fee: $150
Required New Member Pre-booked 45 Kitchen Hours: $990+ tax. These kitchen hours can be used at the member’s discretion and expire after 1 year.
Stations in the production kitchen are available to rent for $22/hour
The public facing performance kitchen is available to rent for private events, pop-ups, and cooking classes for $25/hour
Cold storage cage can be rented for $150/month
Locked dry storage can be rented for $75/month
Rental of both dry cage & cold cage is $200/month
HEAR FROM OUR MEMBERS
“I am so grateful to be a member of The Commissary. My business would not be where it is today without them! Not only do they provide endless tools and resources giving your business every shot at success, I have also made some wonderful and lifelong friends here among this incredible group of entrepreneurs. This truly is a special place of community, passion, and learning. Rochester is so lucky to have a place like this!”
—Aashna, Owner and Founder of OSHI GHEE
“The best thing about working at The Commissary is the culture that is being shaped. The opportunity presented has been absolutely amazing. Working amongst other passionate entrepreneurs who are not only promoting their own brands but also supporting others, has been such a beautiful experience. The leaders of The Commissary genuinely want to see you win, and so do the members. I am proud to be art of such a humble, compassionate and caring environment. It is truly something special!”
—Lisa Malavez, Owner and Chef, Qué Chévere
"Since my time as a member of the commissary my business and business relationships have grown exponentially. The sense of camaraderie among management and members and members to members creates a welcoming environment of like minded individuals building and maintaining the economic foundation in Downtown Rochester all while pursuing our dreams."
—Dennis Gleason, Founder of Legendary Beans Coffee