When Amanda launched Cartisan in May 2025, she knew her specialty cheese and charcuterie brand would deliver on its mission to bring elevated cheese experiences to the local community. Thanks to a premium offering that includes a mobile charcuterie bar – backed by nearly two decades at a Wisconsin-based specialty cheese company and the grit earned through many hard-working years at her family’s bagel business – she was on her way to successfully building her business and brand.

What she didn’t know: how best to market Cartisan and make sure those in the community with catering needs considered Cartisan for their next event. She also loved the idea of joining a supportive community with other food entrepreneurs who were similarly launching businesses.

Enter Rising Kitchens.

Four months after launching Cartisan, Amanda applied to be a 2025 Rising Kitchen. Since being accepted, she’s made some important, strategic shifts. For example, the help of a Rising Kitchen marketing/branding expert led to a website refresh and other outreach efforts to target the right customers. Within the last couple of months alone, Amanda has been connected to new customer events that include a private birthday party and a large fundraiser. Now for Cartisan – and Amanda – the future is looking even brighter.

“Rising Kitchens has opened doors I didn’t even know were there for me,” says Amanda. “It gave me access to new customers, markets and industry experts who provided helpful insight and guidance, all while helping me build important community connections. Working with Rising Kitchens has been an incredible experience.”