Sponsored by University of Arizona FORGE, the Tucson City of Gastronomy (TCoG) presents a monthly presentation, every second Thursday, on the business of heritage foods. Drawing on a community-wide network of resources, TCoG speakers will provide information on how to leverage Tucson's global designation as part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network to grow food-based businesses in Southern Arizona.

The first event in the series will feature TCoG Founder and Executive Director Jonathan Mabry and Cheri's Desert Harvest founder and owner, Cheri Romanoski, and the opportunity to sample products by TCoG certified artisan MORA.

Jonathan Mabry will speak about the many ways that Tucson City of Gastronomy helps elevate and grow food-based businesses including TCoG Certification.

Cheri Romanoski is known around the country for her prickly pear products. Cheri learned how to make many different varieties of preserves, some of which she continues to make for her own business today. Since 1985, her homespun hobby blossomed into a national and international business. Hear how Cheri used heritage desert foods to create a unique market niche and business success.

Attendees also have the opportunity to meet with staff from Startup Tucson and learn how to participate in their Food Forward programs for entrepreneurs.

After the event, attendees are invited to stick around for complimentary co-working and drop-in mentorship in the upstairs FORGE HUB from 10-12.