Where Smart Food Innovation Begins: Inside Canada’s Smartest Kitchen

Tucked inside Holland College in Charlottetown, Canada’s Smartest Kitchen is where food innovation meets real-world impact—helping entrepreneurs turn bold ideas into delicious realities on Canada’s Food Island.

1. How does your company’s role in the food ecosystem contribute to the broader goals of the PEI food industry?

Canada’s Smartest Kitchen at Holland College integrates multi-disciplinary culinary expertise into all things food and beverage on PEI. As a part of the Canadian community college network, we contribute college-specific programming and R&D funding opportunities to the robust support network for new and existing food companies on PEI. With close partnerships in the PEI food sector, we support new product innovations and have a strong track record when it comes to value-added initiatives.

2. What is the best piece of advice that you would give to aspiring food entrepreneurs in PEI?

It is journey moving a food idea to real-world sales. Make time to understand which entities can support you. Ask questions and inject yourself into situations where you have the chance to hear from others who have launched their own products.

3. Can you share any insights or strategies that have helped your organization navigate the challenges of the food industry in PEI?

At Canada’s Smartest Kitchen we embrace professional development. From industry training to seeking advice from experts, we work diligently to be informed. Take the time to connect with associations, attend product/service demonstrations or showcases, and take advantage of training opportunities afforded to PEI food innovators.

4. What are your organization’s future goals, and how do you plan to continue contributing to the growth of the food ecosystem in PEI?

We are committed to being a longstanding partner within the PEI food industry. This means growing our ability to support projects, being as efficient and strategic as possible with clients, and ultimately, basing what we do on the needs of those wanting to create and (re)formulate foods and beverages on PEI.

5. In what ways has your business embraced innovation, and how do you stay ahead of industry trends?

Our team loves innovation and new technologies. We work hard to study trends and interact with those already on the leading edge. We strive to secure new equipment and technologies. In doing so, we scaffold new learning and opportunities with existing knowledge across our team.

Learn more about how Canada’s Smartest Kitchen can help support your food business here.