Whether you’re passionate about local food, entrepreneurship, or community work, AFIC@MCO offers a place to make an impact.
At the intersection of agriculture, entrepreneurship and community lies the Arkansas Food Innovation Center at the Market Center of the Ozarks—known locally as AFIC@MCO. Designed to support farmers and food entrepreneurs through education, shared-use facilities and expert guidance, this new regional hub is helping shape the future of food in Northwest Arkansas.
With a 24/7-accessible commercial kitchen, contract processing capabilities and a steady calendar of community-driven events, AFIC@MCO are more than just a facility—they are a launchpad for local innovation and a collaborative space for people passionate about food, business and community development.
The mission of AFIC@MCO is to make food entrepreneurship more accessible for everyone—from small-scale farmers and start-up food producers to home cooks ready to take the next step. The facility provides hands-on resources such as:
- A shared-use commercial kitchen
- Contract processing and packaging support
- Educational programs and workshops
- Community events, including the monthly AFIC@MCO Savor the Ozarks Dinner Series
As demand for local food and support services continues to grow, so does the need for a dedicated team to help run, manage and expand this work.
As a growing initiative, AFIC@MCO regularly seek passionate individuals interested in food systems, community engagement and small business development. Roles may include:
- Kitchen and Facilities Support – Assisting with shared kitchen operations and ensuring food safety protocols and accessibility.
- Event Planning and Community Engagement – Supporting signature programming like the AFIC@MCO Savor the Ozarks Dinner Series, as well as educational outreach and collaborative events.
- Contract Processing and Production Staff – Helping food entrepreneurs navigate the technical side of production, packaging and labeling.
- Administrative and Marketing Support – Communicating opportunities to the community, managing outreach, and helping entrepreneurs succeed.
These roles often require a combination of strong communication skills, attention to detail and a passion for food or entrepreneurship. AFIC@MCO offer flexible schedules, the chance to be part of something new, and the opportunity to grow professionally within the University of Arkansas system.
Team members at AFIC@MCO benefit from a collaborative work environment grounded in continuous improvement. Staff are encouraged to learn new skills, attend trainings and participate in team-building efforts. With support from the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture and close ties to the community, the organization is positioned to serve as a lasting resource for Northwest Arkansas.
Whether you’re passionate about local food systems, excited by the idea of helping entrepreneurs thrive, or looking for meaningful work in a collaborative setting, AFIC@MCO offer a place to make an impact. To learn more about upcoming opportunities, visit aficmco.uada.edu and explore available roles or contact the team directly.
Northwest Arkansas is home to a growing network of organizations focused on food, entrepreneurship and sustainability. Join our Talent Network at CareersNWA and discover more opportunities to shape the future of the region—starting with your own career.
