Frequently Asked Questions

Who runs Lake County Taste Makers?

The program is managed by the 1Team 1Dream Board of Directors, including founders Maryann Schmid and Olga Martin Steele, with support from local food and beverage industry partners and sponsors that include government and businesses.

Where do the cash awards come from?

Cash awards are funded by donors, primarily from Lake County, including local businesses, food and beverage industry stakeholders, banks, credit unions, county and city governments, and individuals, as well as contributions of time and resources from the Board of Directors and their networks.

Who can apply?

Lake County residents, 18+ with either:

  • a food & beverage startup concept, or
  • an existing small business in the food & beverage space (e.g., restaurant, bakery, caterer, food truck, CPG/specialty product, processing/service).

Who is not eligible?

  • Past 1Team 1Dream cash-prize winners
  • Cannabis-related proposals
  • Nonprofits
  • Businesses outside the food & beverage industry
  • Businesses/individuals outside Lake County (residency or operations required)

Do I need a storefront in Lake County?

No. Online cloud kitchens, mobile units (e.g., food trucks), and other models are welcome, provided the owner resides in Lake County and the business operates within the county.

How do I apply?

Application window: January 1, 2026 – April 15, 2026
How to apply: Submit the online application form on our website during the application window. Late applications are not accepted.

Phase 1: Application Review (April 16 – April 30, 2026) – Applications submitted by April 15, 2026, will be reviewed. Twelve (12) semi-finalists will be selected and announced on May 1, 2026. All semi-finalists must proceed to Phase 2.

Phase 2: Workshop (June 13, 2026) – A mandatory one-day workshop will be held at a designated location (TBD). Semi-finalists must attend to remain in the program.

Phase 3: Mini-Competition (July 18, 2026) – Semi-finalists will present their business plans to a panel of judges at a mini-competition. Seven (7) finalists will be selected to proceed. Location TBD.

Phase 4: Internship (August 15, 2026) – The seven (7) finalists will participate in an internship with past 1Team 1Dream winners in the food and beverage business to gain hands-on experience and mentorship.

Phase 5: Pitch Lab (September 19, 2026) – Finalists must attend a pitch lab to refine their presentations. Details on the date and location will be announced.

Phase 6: Final Competition & Gala (October 11, 2026) – Finalists will pitch their business ideas to judges during the gala. Time and location will be announced.

Cash awards:

  • 1st Prize: $20,000 (1 winner)
  • 2nd Prize: $10,000 each (2 winners)
  • 3rd Prize: $7,000 each (2 winners)
  • 4th Prize: $5,000 each (2 winners)
  • Fan Favorite: $1,000 (1 winner)
  • Team Awards: $5,000 in total

How funds may be used:

Funds must be used for the purposes described in your application (e.g., equipment, licensing, packaging, food safety compliance, marketing assets). Winners will submit 6 and 12-month status reports with proof of use. If a project is discontinued or funds aren’t used for approved purposes, remaining funds must be returned.

Is there a fee to apply?

No. There is no application fee.

What are the participation commitments?

Selected applicants must attend the workshop, mini-competition, internship, pitch lab, and the final competition.

What are the winners required to do after the gala?

  • Submit status reports at 6 and 12 months detailing fund use and progress.
  • Use funds as approved in your application, or request changes in writing.
  • Participate in impact surveys and promotional features (e.g., videos, press).

Yes, if you did not receive a cash prize in any previous Hands Up Lake County competitions and your idea is food and beverage related.

For additional questions, email Olga Martin Steele at olgamartinsteele@outlook.com or call/text 916-849-8170.