Desrochers Retired From Incubator Kitchen Collective
The Newport-based business incubator has named Cindy Stanley as the new executive director to lead operations.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Openings & Closings
Live Poll
Do you believe local business incubators are helpful for startup growth in your community?
Rachel Desrochers has retired from her role as executive director of the Incubator Kitchen Collective. Cindy Stanley has been selected to succeed her in leading the Newport-based organization.
Why it matters
The transition marks a change in leadership for a facility that plays a critical role in supporting food-oriented startups within the local community. The change follows more than a decade of development under the organization's founder.
The incubator has supported over 225 food-oriented startups during its history and currently houses 49 businesses at its 517 W. 7th St. facility in Newport.
The players
Rachel Desrochers
She is the founder of the Incubator Kitchen Collective and served as the organization's executive director for 13 years.
Cindy Stanley
She is the new executive director appointed to lead the Incubator Kitchen Collective following the retirement of the founder.
Incubator Kitchen Collective
This is a Newport-based facility that provides commercial kitchen space and business resources to food-oriented startups.
The details
Founded in 2013, the facility provides local entrepreneurs with access to commercial kitchens and essential industry resources. Cindy Stanley takes over the leadership role following the announcement of Desrochers retirement.
Timeline
2013: Rachel Desrochers founded the Incubator Kitchen Collective.
September 2026: Rachel Desrochers announced her retirement as executive director.
Market Landscape
This leadership transition reflects the broader maturation of regional food incubator hubs as they transition from founder-led startups to established institutions. The move positions the Newport facility to continue scaling its operations amidst a competitive landscape for local food entrepreneurs.
Local entrepreneurs currently utilizing the commercial kitchen space should expect a change in executive leadership as they coordinate business operations with the new director. The facility remains a core resource for small food businesses seeking to scale in the Newport and Cincinnati region.
The takeaway
Founders of local business hubs often reach a point where passing the mantle to a new leader is necessary for sustained operational growth. Entrepreneurs can ensure a smooth transition by proactively engaging with new management regarding their ongoing kitchen needs.
Further reading
For more updates on regional business activity, visit the Newport Openings & Closings section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by LINK nky.
Live Poll
Do you believe local business incubators are helpful for startup growth in your community?
